Carolyn Fox

What's better than a late-season bluebird day of skiing? A late-season bluebird day of skiing with maple syrup. Since 1939, the Mt. Mansfield Ski Club has hosted the Stowe Sugar Slalom. Now one of America's most recognized alpine races, the two-day event coincides with the tapping of the state's maple trees — a sweet tradition. More than 1,000 racers and upwards of 600 spectators have turned out in years past to hit the slopes in festive attire inspired by the season. Relax afterward at a hillside barbecue with live music. A local delicacy will be served: maple syrup on snow, paired with a pickle!

Terroir is a French word often used in the winemaking world: It refers to the set of environmental factors — soil, climate and sunlight — that imbue grapes with their distinct flavor. But the word has wider applications. Travelers in search of Vermont's unique terroir can get a taste of place simply by dining at one of our many fine restaurants.

Burlington City Arts curates exhibits in three areas of the airport: the Skyway, the area above the escalator and the walls facing security for Gates 1 through 8. Whether you've arrived early for a flight or are waiting to pick up passengers, do take the time to look around!

As four-time Olympian Larry Damon famously said, Stowe's annual Race to the Cabin is "a pretty easy race; there's only one hill." Yes, but that hill entails a 1,000-foot elevation gain in just five kilometers. Racers tackle the uphill course, climbing deep into the woods to the finish line at Trapp Family Lodge's Slayton Pasture Cabin, where hot soup, sandwiches and a toasty fire await. The record race time? Seventeen minutes. For visitors who'd like to take things slower, the cabin is open daily in winter, and the lodge's 2,500 acres include 37 miles of groomed trails and 62 miles of backcountry trails for cross-country skiers of all levels.

If winter's dark days get you down, Steve Conant can shed some light. The founder of Conant Metal & Light doesn't just craft original lighting and decorative metalwork out of his Pine Street studio and showroom — he's one of the city's brightest lights himself in terms of creativity, community and character.