Just a 30 minute drive from our Stowe location through a scenic route over Smuggler’s Notch is Jeffersonville VT. The route is only open seasonly, closed winters. So take advantage of some great photo opportunities, trails, and eats. I enjoyed a childhood in Jeffersonville and live here again after moving back from CA 2 years ago. Here are some of my local tips for pre/post massage!
Tucked into the Green Mountains of northern Vermont, Mount Mansfield stands as the tallest peak in the state—and a powerful symbol of natural beauty, indigenous heritage, and year-round recreation. This beloved mountain is more than just a stunning backdrop for ski trips and hiking adventures. It holds layers of meaning. This rugged peak known to the Wabanaki and Abenaki as Mozǒdebiwajok, or Mozodepowadso, meaning “Moosehead Mountain.”
Today, the area remains a part of the cultural heartland of Abenaki and Kanyeh’kehà:ka peoples. For travelers, it’s an opportunity to explore with reverence: to learn, hike respectfully, and consider the deep connections between landscape and spirit.
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There may be no better way to feel Vermont’s natural drama than by driving the narrow, winding Vermont Route 108 over Smugglers’ Notch. This famous mountain pass curls through a dramatic cleft between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. With sheer cliffs, mossy boulders, and tight switchbacks, it’s a road that feels more like a secret passage than a highway. Historically, the Notch was used by smugglers ferrying goods (and sometimes people,) between the U.S. and Canada—hence the name. Today, it’s an unforgettable drive best done slowly, allowing space for scenic pull-offs and the occasional surprise wildlife encounter. (notice the deer that came to greet me this morning in the above pictures!)
On the northern side of the Notch, Jeffersonville offers a surprising variety of great local food spots—perfect for a pre-hike fuel-up or post-drive wind-down.
Here are a few of my hometown favorites:
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158 Main Restaurant & Bakery – A cozy, old-fashioned café offering hearty breakfasts, homemade bread, and Vermont-style comfort food. Their maple sausage is a local legend.
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Martell’s at the Red Fox – Nestled between Smuggler’s Notch and Jeffersonville, a casual American dining spot, great local beers, and live music.
- The Family Table – Farm-to-table dining with New England charm. Think elevated comfort food with plenty of vegetarian options and locally sourced ingredients.
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Burger Barn – (My favorite!) With inventive burgers and hand-cut fries, all served from a rustic roadside food truck. Pure Vermont character. I highly recommend Burger Barn! Please note they are cash only, and definitely worth the wait in line that they usually do have!!! Outdoor picnic table seating or take it to go to one of our great trail/picnic areas.
Walking Trails in the Area
Lamoille Valley Rail Trail: Parking in several spots in Jeffersonville, the most prominent being the park and ride just east of town on route 15, just off the rotary. About half a mile further east is parking at the historic Cambridge Junction covered bridge. Enjoy a stroll or bike ride on miles of trails near the Lamoille river.
Brewster River Gorge Trailhead: On the opposite side of Jeffersonville, located on Gristmill Dr, just up the 108 back towards Smuggler’s Notch is another historic covered bridge and some great walking trails, as well as swimming holes in the hot summer months!
A Wellness Retreat in Stowe: Brilliant Massage & Skin
After a day on the road—or a hike up Mount Mansfield—there’s no better way to unwind than with a visit to Brilliant Massage & Skin in Stowe. Our pop-up wellness studio location is on the mountain road in Stowe, conveniently just outside Stowe village.
With a focus on wellness and rejuvenation, we offer a calm, clean, and upscale environment. Our CBD massage is particularly popular with travelers and locals who’ve spent a little too much time trekking the rocky trails of Smugglers’ Notch. I am offering a local VT product for our CBD massage, Sunset Lake Craft CBD 1000mg Recovery Lotion. They are a great local farm from the Champlain Islands with deep roots in Vermont’s dairy farm culture.
For new clients: get a free add on of hot stones, aromatherapy, or cupping sample with the code “ADD”
or choose 10% off with the code “stowe10”
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From the sacred history of Mount Mansfield to the thrill of winding through Smugglers’ Notch, and the joy of maple-laced pancakes or a healing massage in Stowe, this pocket of northern Vermont offers an unforgettable mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and small-town charm. Our farmers markets are starting up again this week! Every Wednesday 4-7pm June 4 through October 1. Located at 49 Old Main st Jeffersonville, VT 05464, on the east end of the village. Local goods, produce, and Live music as well! The village is also home to 2 art galleries on main st, Bryan Memorial Gallery and Visions of Vermont Fine Art Gallery, respectively. Our historic Varnum Memorial Library hosts community events and is near some beautiful local murals painted on local lumber silos.
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Whether you’re here for the foliage, the food, or the feeling of grounding that comes from being among ancient mountains, you’ll leave with something more than memories—you’ll leave with perspective and peace.
Thank you for reading and exploring the great state of Vermont with me!
-Kristy Rosberg, Brilliant Massage and Skin, Stowe, VT (and my hiking buddy Mr.MOOSE!)
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