Route 30

Take a Drive on Route 30

Winding alongside the picturesque West River, Vermont Route 30 offers travelers one of the most enchanting driving experiences in the Green Mountain State. From its southern starting point in Brattleboro to its northern reaches, this scenic highway unveils a Vermont that travel writers have aptly described as “idyllic” and “picturesque”—a characterization you’ll find impossible to dispute as you journey through the heart of southern Vermont’s river valley.

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Discover the businesses located along Vermont's Route 30.

Grace Cottage Family Health & Hospital

Valley Village, Inc.

Retreat Farm

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What makes Route 30 truly special is its intimate relationship with the West River. For much of its course through Windham County, the highway traces the river’s path, offering continual views of sparkling waters framed by verdant hills and mountains. This proximity to the river provides countless opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the seasons, from refreshing swimming holes in summer to spectacular foliage views in autumn.

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Wellness Works

Windham County Humane Society

Shiatsu Clinic and the Shiatsu School of Vermont

802 Credit Union

Brattleboro Country Club

Fire Arts Vermont

WW Building Supply

Brattleboro Retreat

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Towns and Villages Along the Way

As you travel northward from Brattleboro, Route 30 connects a string of quintessential Vermont communities, each with its own distinct character and charm.

Dummerston

Just minutes from Brattleboro, Dummerston welcomes travelers with rolling farmland and wooded hillsides. The imposing Black Mountain (1,279 feet) features a horseshoe-shaped peak with a rolling, wooded summit ridgeline punctuated by impressive granite outcroppings—a sight that captures the rugged beauty of Vermont’s landscape.

Don’t miss the historic West Dummerston Covered Bridge spanning the West River, believed to be the longest operating covered bridge in the state. Businesses in this area offer locally-produced crafts, farm products, and warm hospitality that exemplify Vermont’s rural character.

Newfane

Continuing north, Route 30 passes through Newfane, one of Vermont’s most perfectly preserved historic villages. Its picturesque town common, surrounded by white clapboard buildings including the historic county courthouse, presents a scene that seems straight from a New England postcard.

If you’re traveling on a Sunday during the season (through October), be sure to stop at Vermont’s oldest running flea market. Here, local vendors offer everything from vintage collectibles and antiques to handcrafted goods and farm-fresh produce, creating a community gathering that has become a beloved tradition.

Townshend

As Route 30 continues through Townshend, the landscape opens to reveal expansive views of rolling green hills and pastoral farmland. The historic town common borders the highway, inviting travelers to pause and appreciate this classic Vermont community. Businesses in Townshend offer authentic local experiences, from farm-to-table dining to unique accommodations set amid stunning scenery.

Beyond the Main Route

While Route 30 itself offers plenty to explore, short detours reveal additional treasures. A side trip to Grafton rewards visitors with one of Vermont’s most meticulously preserved historic villages, the fascinating Grafton History Museum, and access to the Turner Hill Wildlife Management Area, where nature enthusiasts can observe Vermont’s diverse flora and fauna.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, historical exploration, or simply a leisurely drive through some of Vermont’s most beautiful landscapes, Route 30 provides a journey that captures the essence of the Green Mountain State—natural beauty, rich history, and authentic community life flowing together like the West River itself.