Epic Vermont Road Trip on Scenic Route 100 from New Jersey

Route 100 is one of the most picturesque drives in all of New England, stretching 216.7 miles through the state of Vermont. The scenic byway serves as a link between Vermont’s idyllic towns, panoramic landscapes, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. Whether you’re venturing on a winter excursion to hit some of the best slopes on the East Coast, or want to marvel at unbelievably vibrant fall foliage, a journey along Route 100 will not disappoint. 

Beginning from the Escape Campervans in Jersey City, NJ, this itinerary takes you on the ultimate Vermont road trip, as you traverse through the towering Green Mountains, visit historic villages and venture through breathtaking landscapes along the way!

Travel Time from Jersey City, NJ to Vermont’s Route 100

The drive from our Escape Campervans’ location in Jersey City, NJ to Newport, Vermont (your final stop of the trip) covers about 408 miles. While this drive would take approximately 8 hours and 16 minutes to complete without stopping, we recommend taking your time to fully enjoy the scenic beauty of Route 100. For this itinerary, we’ve allotted 6 days to explore Vermont’s most idyllic towns, picturesque hikes, and must-visit landmarks.

Preparing for Your Route 100 Vermont Campervan Road Trip

To make the most of your Vermont road trip, plan ahead and gather everything you need before hitting the road. If you’re traveling during the winter, additional precautions will also need to be considered, like being ready for snow or unexpected weather conditions.

Planning Ahead

Meal Planning: Since there’s a lot to see on this trip, you won’t want to spend too much time cooking complicated meals. Plan ahead and buy groceries that can easily be cooked at your campsite. Likewise, stock up on plenty of road trip and hiking snacks so that you don’t have to waste time searching for food while you’re on the road.

Camping Gear: Take advantage of Escape Campervans’ wide selection of extra add ons, so you’re sure to have everything you need when you get to your campsite. A kitchen kit will come in handy for cooking at your campground, as will camping chairs and tables for added comfort. Extra bedding is another essential for cooler evenings- especially if you’re not traveling during the summer. For winter travel, make sure to also add in snow chains so your campervan can handle the snowy mountain roads.

Campsites: Most of the campsites you’ll encounter on this trip are in state parks. While they tend to be spacious and not fill up far in advance, it’s a good idea to try to reserve your spot about a month ahead of time. If you’re traveling in the winter or spring, most campgrounds will be closed. In this case, you’ll usually need to look into dispersed camping (or free camping) options.

Navigation Tools

GPS and Maps: With so much time on the road, make sure you have a GPS handy so that you don’t get lost on your way to the next adventure. Your smartphone can work well as a GPS, just remember to download offline maps since many areas and campgrounds along Route 100 have poor cell reception. As a backup, grabbing a physical Route 100 map is a great way to be extra prepared. 

Choosing the Right Vehicle

Finding the perfect campervan for your Route 100 journey is essential to having a seamless trip. From the Escape Campervans in Jersey City, NJ, you can choose between the Mavericks or Mesa. Both models sleep up to have 5 people, have a comfortable queen sized bed, and contain convenient kitchenettes. The Mesa is a slightly larger model, and may be a better choice for bigger groups. Take some time comparing your options before determining which campervan is the ideal companion for your Vermont road trip!

The Ultimate Route 100 Vermont Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1- Drive from Jersey City, NJ to Wilmington, Vermont

After loading up your campervan in Jersey City, NJ, it’s time to hop behind the wheel and head north. Your first idyllic town along Route 100 will be Wilmington, Vermont. The drive up should take a little less than 4 hours, and will cover 218 miles. This portion of the route is not particularly scenic, so we recommend having some road trip snacks in the campervan and heading straight to beautiful Vermont.

Known for its classic New England charm and historic downtown area, Wilmington is the perfect introduction to Vermont’s Route 100. Learn about the town’s fascinating past as you wander through the Wilmington Historic District, and pop into some of the local boutiques on Main Street for artisanal items and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. 

Nestled in the southern end of the Green Mountains, the area also boasts numerous hikes, gorgeous lakes, and countless outdoor adventures. Lake Whitingham is a particularly scenic spot to spend an afternoon!

Where to Eat in Wilmington, Vermont:

Dot’s Restaurant $$– 3 W Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363: This charming, family-run diner serves American dishes in a cozy setting, and is a favorite among both locals and tourists visiting the area. Keep in mind the restaurant is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The Village Roost $$– 20 W Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363: In this laid-back setting, organic and sustainably sourced produce is used to create mouthwatering meals. They also make their own bread, and have a small market selling syrup, crafts, and cute souvenirs.

Where to Camp near Wilmington, Vermont:

Molly State Park Campground– 705 VT-9, Wilmington, VT 05363: This verdant, 148-acre park’s campground is open from May through October, and operates on a first come, first served basis. Facilities are minimal, though the restrooms contain flush toilets and coin-operated showers.

Woodford State Park Campground–142 State Park Rd, Woodford, VT 05201: Only 18 minutes away from Wilmington, this is the highest elevation campground in Vermont, offering sweeping views from 2,400 feet. The campground contains 76 campsites, is open from May through October, and reservations must be made ahead of time.

Day 2- Killington, Vermont

After a hearty breakfast downtown, it’s time to hit the road again. Today is all about the journey, as this will be your first day spent driving along Route 100. While the drive from Wilmington to Killington, Vermont takes just under 2 hours to complete, we recommend factoring in extra time to pull over and take in the views!

Once you arrive in Killington, you’ll be fully immersed in the outdoors. If you’ve embarked on a winter road trip, head straight to Killington’s premier ski resort. Located in the Green Mountains, Killington offers outstanding views for skiers and snowboarders. 

However, these lush mountains are equally stunning all year, especially when they’re draped in fall colors.The area offers countless hiking trails, as well as paved, scenic pathways. Killington’s Bike Park is an especially popular choice for mountain bikers of all levels, and is filled with numerous bike trails. 

Where to Eat in Killington, VT

Foundry at Summit Pond $$$– 63 Summit Rd, Killington, VT 05751: Situated along an idyllic pond, this gorgeous restaurant offers a delicious menu of refined cuisine in a wonderfully scenic setting. Live music performances also take place each weekend, including a jazz quartet every Sunday night.

The Garlic $$– 724 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751: For casual Italian fare in an inviting atmosphere, this upscale restaurant and bar checks all the boxes. They’re also known for their amazing martinis, and extensive wine list. 

Campervan Friendly Campsites near Killington, VT:

Gifford Woods State Park– 34 Gifford Woods Acc, Killington, VT 05751: Operating from May through October, this scenic campground is a perfect base for camping in Killington, VT. The site contains flush toilets, coin-operated hot showers, and firewood for sale, but does not offer any hook ups. Reservations must be made in advance. 

Coolidge State Park–  855 Coolidge State Park Rd, Plymouth, VT 05056: Located about 20 minutes from Killington, this campground operates from the end of May until mid-October, and reservations must be made at least one day before your arrival. There are coin-operated showers, hot water, and dump stations available, as well as several nearby hiking trails.

Day 3- Stowe, Vermont

Spend the morning driving alongside the Green Mountains as you continue traveling up Route 100. After about 1 hour and 45 minutes on the road, you’ll arrive in the charming town of Stowe, VT. Perfectly melding classic, small-town vibes with an adrenaline junkie’s paradise, this small town in Northern Vermont truly offers something for everyone. 

Sitting at the base of Mount Mansfield, the tallest mountain in Vermont, the area is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. The Stowe Mountain Resort is celebrated as being one of the best skiing destinations on the East Coast. 

During the warmer months, explore the Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.3 mile trail that takes you through a stunning hike, and is noted for being a prime area for bird watching. No matter what time of year you visit, a walk along Main Street is essential. Visit quirky shops, impressive art galleries, and numerous cafes and restaurants in the historic downtown area.

Where to Eat in Stowe, VT:

Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar $$– 25 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672: Opened by a mother and son duo, this charming eatery sources local produce to create delicious, seasonal dishes. Located right on Main Street, this popular establishment features a cozy fireplace, along with a lovely outdoor area for the warmer months.

The Bench $$– 492 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672: For a night of delicious comfort food and a wide selection of craft beers, this rustic bar and grill is a new favorite in Stowe. Come for their woodfired pizza and try one of their specialty cocktails!

Campervan Friendly Campsites near Stowe, VT:

Little River State Park– Water Reservoir, 3444 Little River Rd, Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676: As one of the largest campgrounds in Vermont, this site contains 81 campsites, runs from May through October, and reservations can be made up to one month ahead of time. Coin-operated showers and a dump station are available, and the park features swimming beaches along with several hiking trails.

Gold Brook Campground– 1900 Waterbury Rd, Stowe, VT 05672: Located right in Stowe, this well-developed site offers showers, sewer and electric hookups, a dump station, and a swimming pool! Their season operates from May through October, and advanced reservations are required.

Day 4- Waterbury, Vermont

While you’re in Stowe, take a fun day trip to the nearby town of Waterbury, located only a 20-minute drive away. This charming, historic town consists of a lively downtown area, along with endless excursions for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the town’s main draw is the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, a quintessential stop when visiting Vermont! Indulge in a factory tour, followed by a sampling of some of their most beloved flavors. 

If you don’t have much of a sweet tooth, stop by the Prohibition Pig Brewery instead. This popular brewery has an extensive selection of locally brewed, craft beers as well as a robust food menu.

Where to Eat in Waterbury, VT:

Hen of the Wood $$$$–14 S Main St, Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676: Located in Waterbury’s historic downtown area, this elevated restaurant highlights Vermont’s regional cuisine, using local produce sourced from nearby farmers and cheese makers. For an unforgettable dining experience, reserve a chef’s choice dinner in their private dining room.

Reservoir Restaurant and Tap Room $$– 1 S Main St, Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676: For a more laid-back dining experience, this town-favorite offers a delicious, rotating menu along with an extensive selection of locally brewed, craft beers. In fact, their claim to fame is having the most craft beer on draft in all of Vermont!

Day 5- Newport, Vermont

After an early wake up, say goodbye to Stowe as you make the one hour drive up to your final stop along Route 100. The breathtaking town of Newport, VT sits along Lake Memphremagog, and serves as a peaceful oasis for both visitors and locals. 

Whether you want a relaxing, lakefront picnic or a challenging hike, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Newport. The tranquil Newport Bike Path is a great option if you want to enjoy the mountain views without breaking too much of a sweat. Otherwise, spend the day on the water by renting a boat or kayaking along the town’s pristine lake.

Where to Eat near Newport, VT:

EastSide Restaurant & Pub $$– 47 Landing St, Newport, VT 05855: Dine with a view at this elegant, lakeside establishment. Enjoy exquisite local delicacies while unwinding on their waterfront terrace or garden courtyard.

Brown Cow Restaurant $– 350 E Main St, Newport, VT 05855: For a mouthwatering, filling breakfast, look no further! This quaint, diner-style eatery offers classic dishes for both breakfast and lunch, and is an ideal spot to fill up before a big hike.

Where to Camp near Newport, VT:

Prouty Beach– 386 Prouty Beach Rd, Newport, VT 05855: This picturesque site in a 36-acre, waterfront park is an ideal base to camp in Newport. Open from May through October, this well-developed campground offers hot showers, laundry facilities, hookups, access to the docks, swimming areas, and other recreational activities. Reservations can be booked in advance on their website.

Day 6- Drive Back to Jersey City, NJ

After an early wake up and breakfast in Newport, it’s time to pack up your campervan one last time and begin making the long journey back to New Jersey. While you could drive back down on Route 100, taking I-91S will be much faster. The drive from Newport to the Escape Campervans’ in Jersey City is about 6.5 hours, which is why it’s advised to skip the scenic route if you’re short on time.

Why Rent a Camper Van for Your Route 100 Vermont Road Trip?

Between navigating steep mountain roads and finding suitable campsites along Route 100, renting an Escape Campervan rather than a traditional RV is the way to go for your Vermont road trip. These are just a few of the reasons why a campervan rental is the ideal choice for your East Coast adventure:

Easy to Maneuver: A road trip through Route 100 in Vermont requires a vehicle that’s easy to maneuver, as you’ll be traveling across winding mountain roads and quaint towns. A large RV won’t allow for the same flexibility that our more compact camper vans offer. Plus many of the state park’s campsites have limited spots for RV’s, whereas our campervans can easily fit in a tent site.

Comfort: Because Escape Campervans are similar in size to a large family vehicle, they’re much easier to drive than a traditional RV. This added comfort behind the wheel is essential, especially if you’re driving in poor weather conditions. For a winter road trip, snow and unexpected storms are very common, and could be difficult to navigate in a big RV if you’re not used to such a large vehicle.

Versatility and Convenience: Because our campervans are already set up with a bed and kitchenette, you don’t have to spend tons of time assembling your campsite. Since this itinerary changes campgrounds often, being able to quickly pack up and go without wasting tons of time is so important. We want you to spend your time immersed in Vermont’s scenic beauty, not assembling tents or looking for RV hook ups!

Book Your Vermont Route 100 Road Trip with Escape Campervans

No matter what season you choose to visit, a route 100 adventure is guaranteed to provide you with endless charm, awe-inspiring nature, and unparalleled outdoor adventures. To embark on an epic Vermont road trip, click the link below and reserve your Escape Campervan. The scenic wonders of New England’s Green Mountain State are waiting to be discovered!