Vermont is a small New England state of extraordinary natural beauty, famous for fiery fall foliage, world-class ski resorts, covered wooden bridges, and a thriving farm-to-table food culture. Burlington, its largest city, sits on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain and buzzes with craft breweries and independent shops. From the rolling Green Mountains to maple-syrup farms and award-winning cheese dairies, Vermont rewards travelers who seek authenticity over spectacle.
Vermont is consistently ranked among the safest states in the US for visitors and residents alike. Violent crime rates are among the lowest in the nation. The primary hazards are weather-related: winter driving conditions, mountain weather changes, and occasional summer flooding. Travelers exercising basic awareness will have very few safety concerns.
Current safety advisory
Very Safe
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Tick-Borne Illness
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- Lyme disease carried by deer ticks is a significant health concern in Vermont. Ticks are active from April through November. Wear long pants and light-colored clothing when hiking; do a full body tick check after outdoor activities. Remove ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers.
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- Drinking Water
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- Tap water is safe to drink in all Vermont towns and cities. In backcountry areas, filter or treat natural water sources — Giardia is present in some Vermont streams.
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- Altitude
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- Vermont's highest peaks (Mount Mansfield 4,393 ft, Camel's Hump 4,083 ft) are not high enough to cause altitude sickness, but rapid exertion at summit level in hot weather can cause fatigue; pace yourself.
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- Hypothermia Risk
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- Mountain weather in Vermont can turn cold quickly even in summer. A hiker in shorts and a T-shirt can develop early hypothermia if caught in a cold summer rainstorm at elevation. Always carry a rain jacket and extra layer.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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