10/25/2026
🍂 It's nearly the Season of the Sticks in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom!
The fall colors are nearly gone, the leaves are falling, and the Kingdom Trails mountain bike trails will soon be closed for the season.
But November has its own charm in the NEK. The crowds have gone, the roads are quieter, and there's still plenty to explore!
🟠 Hunting Season — Wear Orange!
November is hunting season in Vermont! Regular deer season runs November 14–29, 2026, but other hunting seasons overlap. If you're heading into the woods, wear blaze orange, be aware of your surroundings, and check Vermont Fish & Wildlife for current hunting dates.
🚴 Swap Singletrack for Gravel!
Just because the mountain bike trails are closed doesn't mean you have to put your bike away! The NEK has miles of beautiful gravel roads winding through forests, farmland, and rolling hills.
Check out NEK Gravel for route inspiration, including rides around East Burke, Kirby, Lyndon, and Lake Willoughby. Watch for changing road conditions as temperatures drop.
🥾 Take a Hike!
Mount Pisgah offers spectacular views over Lake Willoughby, even after the leaves have fallen. November can be a beautiful time to hike, with open views through the trees and fewer people on the trails.
Bring layers, wear orange, and as the ground starts to freeze, it's not a bad idea to start thinking about packing your microspikes! Check trail conditions before heading out.
🍄 Go Mushroom Spotting!
The NEK's damp forests and fallen logs can still reveal some fascinating fungi in November. It's getting late in the season, but you might spot oyster mushrooms, turkey tail, or other woodland fungi.
Bring your camera and see what you can discover. If you're interested in edible foraging, only consume mushrooms identified as safe by a qualified expert, and make sure you have permission to collect.
🫎 Go Moose Spotting on Route 114!
We're right on Vermont's famous Moose Alley, Route 114!
One of our favorite little NEK adventures has been driving north toward East Haven after dark, keeping an eye out for moose along the roadside.
Sightings are never guaranteed, of course, but that's part of the fun! Drive slowly and carefully, especially at night. Moose can be very difficult to see in the dark. Never stop in the roadway or approach a moose.
🍺 Discover Local Breweries & Distilleries!
November is a great time to explore some of Vermont's local craft b**r and spirits.
Try Next Trick Brewing in West Burke or head to St. Johnsbury Distillery for locally made spirits. Check seasonal opening hours before visiting.
🍸 Sunset Cocktails, Without the Crowds!
Some of our favorite spots are a little quieter this time of year.
Enjoy a sunset cocktail at the Wildflower Inn or the Inn at Burklyn, both offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Check November hours and availability before heading out.
🔥 Fire Pits, Hot Tubs & Cozy Nights!
After a day exploring, there's something wonderful about returning to a cozy cabin, gathering around the fire pit, or soaking in a hot tub under the stars.
November might just be one of the NEK's most underrated months.
🏡 Come experience stick season with us at Burke Trailside House & Cabin!
Book direct and discover more about our East Burke properties through the link in our bio.
*Photo Credits
Hiker photo by [Ali Kazal](https://unsplash.com/) on [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/photos/person-in-blue-jacket-and-orange-backpack-standing-on-green-grass-field-during-daytime-gUKy1OX46_s).
Gravel bike photo by [Markus Spiske](https://unsplash.com/) on [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/photos/a-man-riding-a-bike-on-a-trail-in-the-woods-1QGSVSUg-Ec).
Fire pit photo by [Mike Cox](https://unsplash.com/) on [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/photos/a-man-standing-in-front-of-a-fire-pit-k7kSpRQKBgU).
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