Route 9 Molly Stark Byway View from the top of Hogback mountain in fall foliage season

Route 9 — The Molly Stark Byway

Take a Drive on Route 9, and Travel the Molly Stark Byway

Winding 48 miles through the heart of southern Vermont, the Molly Stark Byway (Vermont Route 9) offers travelers one of New England’s most captivating scenic journeys. This historic corridor connects Brattleboro in the east to Bennington in the west, traversing through verdant valleys, charming historic villages, vibrant downtowns, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Green Mountain National Forest.

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Discover the businesses located along the Molly Stark Byway.

Vermont Hempicurean – Vermont Grow Barn – Vermont Bud Barn

Vermont Museum of Natural History

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The Molly Stark Byway is far more than just a scenic route—it’s a journey through Vermont’s living heritage. Along its path, you’ll discover state parks, museums celebrating legendary Vermont figures like Ethan Allen, Robert Frost, and Grandma Moses, historic districts, covered bridges, artisan workshops, and farm stands offering the freshest local products.

Discover more Route 9 businesses

Marlboro School of Music, Inc.

Brattleboro Area Farmers’ Market

Wells Fargo Advisors

Brattleboro-West Arts (BWA)

The Vermont Country Deli

Jewett Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

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A Road Through History

The byway follows a historic route carved out in 1777 when General John Stark and his victorious army returned to New Hampshire after the Battle of Bennington. Named in honor of the general’s wife, Molly Stark, this passageway has witnessed centuries of New England history unfold along its course.

The modern popularity of Route 9 dates back to the early 20th century and the dawn of the automobile age. In 1907, an enterprising hotel owner conceived the “Ideal Tour” through New England’s hill country, promising travelers “A First Class Hotel at the End of Each Day’s Run.” This forward-thinking approach to tourism established Route 9 as a premier destination for “pleasure driving,” a tradition that continues to this day.

Eastern Gateway: Brattleboro

Your journey along the Molly Stark Byway might begin in Brattleboro, one of Vermont’s most vibrant cultural centers. This arts-oriented town boasts a thriving downtown including galleries, craft shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and performance venues.

The Journey Westward

As you travel westward from Brattleboro, the byway climbs through rolling hills and dense forests. Ascend Hogback Mountain, where the famous “100-mile view” overlook presents a breathtaking panorama spanning three states—Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. This spectacular vantage point provides an unforgettable perspective on southern New England’s natural beauty.

At the byway’s midpoint lies Wilmington, a quintessential New England crossroads village. Its well-preserved historic district features classic architecture housing unique shops, cozy restaurants, and welcoming accommodations.

The byway’s western anchor is historic Bennington, where Vermont’s revolutionary heritage comes alive. Home to the towering Bennington Battle Monument commemorating the pivotal 1777 battle, this vibrant community blends history with contemporary charm.

More Than Just a Drive

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, historical discovery, or simply a peaceful drive through some of Vermont’s most beautiful landscapes, the Molly Stark Byway invites you to experience southern Vermont at its finest. Take your time, explore the side roads, and discover why this historic corridor continues to captivate travelers more than two centuries after General Stark and his troops first traversed this remarkable path.