Treetop Theater: Zipping the Canopy at Smugglers' Notch
Fly the Green Mountains: a three-hour canopy circuit that pairs adrenaline with alpine views
You step off a wooden platform and the forest rearranges itself. Hemlock trunks recede into a tapestry of green; the valley drops away and the air takes on a clean, alpine clarity that seems to breathe for you. For the next two to three hours, ArborTrek's Zipline Canopy Tour at Smugglers' Notch Resort hands you the forest on a series of eight ziplines, two suspension bridges and two rappels — a choreography of exposure and calm that makes the mountains feel as close as a held breath. Guided by instructors who run the "Ground School" with patient humor and steady hands, you learn how to read the gear, trust the cables and let momentum take over. When you fly, the trees have a personality: sugar maples whisper, old hemlocks hold steady like sentries, and the currents of air seem to dare you forward. Wild, but ordered — an aerial corridor cut through the Green Mountains.
Trail Wisdom
Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes keep your feet secure on platforms, short approaches and rappels; flip-flops or sandals are not allowed.
Leave Loose Items Behind
Secure cameras or phones in zip pockets or leave them in your car—most operators restrict loose items for safety.
Hydrate Before You Go
Bring water and drink ahead of the tour; you’ll be active at elevation and may not have access to refills mid-route.
Arrive 30 Minutes Early
Be early for Ground School and gear fitting so the group isn't delayed and you get full instruction time.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive the nearby Smugglers' Notch Road scenic viewpoints for valley panoramas
- •Visit local sugarhouses in spring for maple-syrup demonstrations
Wildlife
White-tailed deer, Black bear
Conservation Note
ArborTrek and the resort prioritize tree-friendly anchors and Leave No Trace principles; follow guide instructions to minimize impact on living trees and understory.
The notch earned its name from 19th-century smuggling lore—locals and travelers used the narrow pass to move goods outside official channels.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Early foliage, Milder crowds
Challenges: Mud on approach trails, Cool mornings
Spring brings fresh leaves and quieter conditions; expect muddy spots on forest approaches and cool mornings—dress in layers.
summer
Best for: Warm weather zips, Long daylight
Challenges: Higher attendance, Afternoon storms
Summer is prime canopy weather with long days and full foliage; book in advance and watch afternoon storm forecasts.
fall
Best for: Peak foliage views, Photogenic light
Challenges: Crowds during leaf-peek weekends, Variable temperatures
Fall offers stunning color and clean visibility—go midweek or early morning to avoid peak crowds and enjoy crisper air.
winter
Best for: Off-season planning, Resort winter activities nearby
Challenges: Zipline closures, Cold and ice
Most canopy tours pause for winter; if operating, expect cold conditions and possible route modifications—call ahead.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy Closed-Toe ShoesEssential
Secure footing for platforms, short approaches, and rappels.
Long PantsEssential
Protects legs from harness abrasion and underbrush.
Reusable Water BottleEssential
Stay hydrated during warm-weather runs; small bottles tuck into harness-friendly pockets.
Lightweight Rain Jacket
Quick protection from showers and wind in variable mountain weather.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The Zipline Canopy Tour runs about 2.5–3 hours including instruction, gearing up, and transit between platforms.
Are there age or weight limits?
Specific age and weight limits vary by operator; contact the tour provider when booking to confirm current restrictions.
Do I need prior experience?
No prior zipline experience is required—guides provide Ground School and hands-on instruction before the first zip.
Can I bring my phone or camera?
Many operators restrict loose cameras for safety; check the tour policy—some allow wrist-strapped devices or provide tether options.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours prioritize safety and may be delayed or canceled in high winds or electrical storms; most offer rescheduling or refunds per their cancellation policy.
Is the course wheelchair accessible?
Canopy tours involve stairs, platforms and suspension elements and are generally not wheelchair accessible; contact the operator to discuss accommodations.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes for secure footing; long pants to protect from harness rub; a reusable water bottle for hydration; a lightweight rain jacket for sudden showers
Did You Know
Smugglers' Notch takes its name from 19th-century smuggling activity—local lore says traders used the tight pass to avoid customs and transport goods clandestinely.
Quick Travel Tips
Book mornings to avoid afternoon storms; bring layers for variable mountain temperatures; confirm weight/age limits at booking; plan 45–60 minutes from Burlington airport
Local Flavor
After the canopy tour, drive to Jeffersonville or nearby Stowe for local craft beer (Von Trapp Brewing in Stowe), farm-to-table eateries, and seasonal maple treats—an easy way to connect the aerial rush with Vermont’s culinary and craft scene.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Burlington International Airport (BTV) ~45–60 min drive; Meeting point: Smugglers' Notch Resort base area; Driving distance from Jeffersonville: under 10 minutes; Cell service: generally good near the resort, patchy deeper in the notch; Permits: none, but advance booking required; Free cancellation policies often apply.
Sustainability Note
The operator uses tree-friendly rigging and follows Leave No Trace principles—pack out waste, avoid disturbing understory plants, and follow guide instructions to protect living trees.
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