As Route 4 heads west, it climbs out of the Outtaquechee Valley and into the Green Mountains, where it skirts some of the highest peaks in the state—notably the downhill skiing empire known as Killington Resort. On the other side of the mountains, Rutland was once a major city based on its trade in marble, though it has now fallen on hard times. Around it are several unique attractions worth a visit, including the informative New England Maple Museum.

Getting There

Killington is a 20-mile (30-min.) drive down Route 4 from Woodstock. For such a popular destination, public transport options are limited. It’s possible to schedule pickup service with Killington Transportation (802/770-3977) from Rutland or White River Junction. Within Killington, the resort offers shuttle bus service between the various base lodges and nearby lodging.

Rutland is 15 miles (20 min.) west of Killington on Route 4 and 35 miles (45 min.) north of Manchester or 15 miles (20 min.) south of Brandon on Route 7. In terms of public transportation, Rutland is a major transportation hub. Continental’s CommutAir flies routes from Boston to Rutland Airport (802/747-9963, www.flyrutlandvt.com) for just $99 each way. Amtrak (800/872-7245, www.amtrak.com) runs trains to Rutland with its Ethan Allen service from New York City, stopping at the Rutland Depot behind Wal-Mart.

Vermont Transit Lines (800/642-3133, www.vermonttransit.com) runs buses to the local bus station (102 West St., 802/773-2774). Marble Valley Regional Transit (802/773-3244) runs bus routes throughout the Rutland area.