Vermont is famous for its sweet maple syrup, world-class winter slopes, crisp apples, and fresh mountain air, but this April 8th, it will be on a short list of 13 states to witness a rare cosmic event: a total solar eclipse.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the 2024 solar eclipse in Vermont.
It’s been almost 100 years since the last total solar eclipse passed over the Green Mountain State, an opportunity that will not return until 2106!
From the science of the eclipse to activities and some great viewing spots amidst Vermont’s scenic beauty, I’ve got you covered.
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Vermont Total Solar Eclipse Countdown
April 8, 2024
Vermont
Eclipse Time
Partial Eclipse begins:
Mon, Apr 8, 2024, at 2:13 pm EDT
Totality begins:
Mon, Apr 8, 2024, at 3:25 pm EDT
Totality ends:
Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 3:31 pm EDT
Partial Eclipse ends:
Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 4:38 pm EDT
****Time of totality based on the first and last view in Vermont. The approximate time and length of viewing will vary depending on the observer's location within the state and path of totality. All times calculated from the US Naval Solar Eclipse computer.
What is a
Total Solar Eclipse?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun while in its "new moon" phase, precisely aligned at a correct distance within its orbit, completely covering the Sun's bright disk from view for a brief period of time, as observed from a specific location here on Earth.
With so many factors required to come together at one singular moment, it's clear why a total solar eclipse is considered a rarity to witness.
On average, they happen somewhere on the planet about once every 18 months but only reoccur in any one exact location approximately once every 375 years.
The last total eclipse of the Sun occurred in the US in 2017. After 2024, the next total solar eclipse will not reappear in the States until 2044.
For more information on the other three types of eclipses (partial eclipse, annular eclipse and a hybrid eclipse) be sure to read my article "What is a Solar Eclipse?"
Eye Protection

A solar eclipse is a spectacular event to witness, but let's make it very clear that it should only be viewed through special-purpose solar filters manufactured in compliance with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard.
It can be very damaging to your eyesight if attempted without the proper protection, such as eclipse glasses or solar protective filters.
Solar Filter Tips
- Check your certified solar eclipse glasses, camera, or telescope filters for defects or damage like scratches or pinholes before using them during the eclipse.
- Wear certified glasses or use filters at all times while staring at the eclipse before and after totality.
- Use caution during totality if not protected by filters, replacing them before the Sun's light reappears.
- If using binoculars or telescopes to view the eclipse, use only Solar filters designed to be attached to the front of the scope, not threaded into the eyepiece, as the optics of the eyepiece could damage the filter and result in injury to the eye.
We discuss solar viewer options in another article if you would like to know more.
Are Solar Filters Needed During Totality?
The only time a total eclipse is safe to view without a protective filter is during the very short stage of totality, lasting only seconds to minutes.
Solar viewers or filters will need to be used once again as the Sun's bright face begins to reappear while viewing the remaining phases of the eclipse.
Eye protection must be used 100% of the time while viewing the eclipse except during totality.
How long the eclipse will be in totality depends on where you are located within its path of totality, which we will discuss next.
Understanding the
Path of Totality in Vermont
During a total eclipse, a dark shadow is cast upon the Earth created by the Moon orbiting at just the right distance between the Earth and the Sun, perfectly aligning and completely obscuring the view of the Sun's disk from that location here on Earth.

As illustrated in the image above, the umbra is the darkest part of the Moon's shadow. This shadow tapers to a narrow circular cone as it reaches the surface of the Earth, covering a radius of approximately 115 miles.

The pathway the umbral shadow travels across the globe is referred to as the path of totality. It is illustrated in the media clip above as a black dot within the Moon's larger penumbral shadow moving across Mexico, The United States and eastern Canada.
It is from within this narrow path of the umbral shadow, that the April 8th, 2024, Total Solar Eclipse can be observed.
To experience the complete "totality" of the bright face of the Sun during the 2024 solar eclipse in Vermont, you must be inside the path of totality while viewing the eclipse.
The totality phase will last longest when viewed from a location directly in the middle of this path. As you move further away from this imaginary center line to the outer edge of the path, left or right, the length of time of totality shortens.
Locations in Vermont outside of this path will not experience totality but a partial eclipse, where the Sun is only partially covered by the Moon.
Where does the
Path of the 2024
Total Solar Eclipse
Cross Over
Vermont?

According to NASA, the 115-mile-wide eclipse path of totality will cross upstate New York's northern border into the northern region of Vermont before entering New Hampshire.
We'll look at six towns or cities in the path of the eclipse to experience totality and work our way across the state from west to east.
Later in this article, I will explain where and how to look up 2024 eclipse times for any location in Vermont.
***Update: All trails will be closed during the eclipse to prevent damage to local habitats and trail systems due to seasonal moisture in the ground, "Mud Season."
A number of state parks will be partially open for eclipse viewing. I provide more park details later in this article .
1. Burlington, V.T.

Eclipse Begins: 2:14:11 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:26:01 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:29:19 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:37:15 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 3m 18.2s
Most anywhere in Vermont is ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Still, Burlington has some unique characteristics that could make it a strong candidate for eclipse chasers to consider during the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse.
It's the most populous city in Vermont and holds the honor of the (smallest) biggest city of a state in all the 50 states of the U.S.
But more importantly, it will experience an exceptional duration of totality at 3 minutes and 18 seconds—a significant amount of time to take in the otherworldly view of the solar corona.
Burlington sits between the shores of Lake Champlain and the majestic range of the Green Mountains, offering a perfect blend of picturesque settings and comfortable urban amenities.

Its vibrant pedestrian-only, open-air market, named Church Street Marketplace, is a popular spot for both visitors and locals with delicious foods, various shops, and boutiques to browse while strolling and enjoying the sights.
Dine within view of Lake Champlain after a walk through its Waterfront Park. Hiking and bike paths are available for those who enjoy fresh air and outdoor activity.
Evening options are many, with theaters, music, restaurants, bars, and breweries.
The local science and nature museum, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, will host a three-day solar eclipse festival in partnership with the Vermont Astronomical Society.
The town will undoubtedly be abuzz with festivities celebrating this fantastic cosmic event.
2. Middlebury, V.T.

Eclipse Begins: 2:13:56 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:27:06 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:28:08 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:37:20 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 1m 02.4s
Further south of Burlington, sitting along Otter Creek, is the quaint New England town of Middlebury, Vermont.
It's situated closer to the outer edge of the eclipse's path of totality but still will experience more than one minute of solar totality.
Well known for its self-named Middlebury College. This rural town is reminiscent of a postcard snapshot from a bygone era.
Its historic residential and downtown architecture will prove to be an excellent location for eclipse chasers seeking the quintessential Vermont setting.

Amongst the expected town decor and amenities, you will find two antique wooden bridges still in service, connecting rural roads throughout the area to various hiking and biking trails, bed and breakfasts, galleries, vineyards, and a brewery.
There is the Henry Sheldon Museum, a community-based museum that opens a door into the history of Vermont with exhibits showcasing the culture of this storied region.

Many food and drink options exist, such as the Otter East Deli & Bakery, a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat.
Check out Latin-inspired favorites offered at The Mad Taco, or stop in at the Two Brothers Tavern for some freshly sourced Vermont comfort fare with a locally brewed beer or cocktail from their full-service bar.
3. St. Albans, V.T.

Eclipse Begins: 2:14:35 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:26:07 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:29:41 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:37:19 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 3m 34s
St. Albans will have the best view of totality on this list with a jaw-dropping 3 minutes and 24 seconds—plenty of time to take in this spectacular universe phenomenon.
The Northern Vermont town has an eclipse celebration planned in both Taylor Park and Bay Town Park by the water.
The Taylor Park Eclipse Party begins at 2:00 pm with live music, food, fun, and games.

Its historic downtown is easily walkable, with many locally owned shops, coffee houses, and various eateries.
A museum and park are within its town center, or wander further out and find several of outdoor opportunities nearby for hiking and biking, such as Kill Kare State Park or Missisquoi Rail Trail.
4. Montpelier, V.T.

Eclipse Begins: 2:14:56 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:37:32 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:29:13 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:37:49 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 1m 41.4s
Montpelier, in the state's north-central region, will experience the elusive solar totality for approximately one minute and forty-one seconds.
Like many areas in New England, Montpelier has a rich Native American and pioneer past that began long before the birth of our country, the United States.
Today, it's the state capital of Vermont and has been since 1805.

The majestic Vermont State House is a must-stop if you are interested in history and vintage 19th-century decor.
Most of its furnishings date back to its 1859 reconstruction due to an earlier fire that completely destroyed the previous building in 1857.

An original oil painting of George Washington (c. 1837) hangs above the speaker's chair and is believed to have been the only piece saved from the original capital building.

Montpelier has much of what you hope to find in Vermont—a beautiful backdrop surrounding historic downtown architecture with over 40 unique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Several other favorite attractions that may pique your interest are the Coburn Covered Bridge, Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, and the Historical Society Museum.
Camel's Hump State Park

Outdoor activities are endless. Put on some hiking boots and set out onto the Camel's Hump or walk the Cross Vermont Trail along the Winooski River, Montpelier's Waterway companion.
You are sure to find a fantastic spot to take in the wondrous sight of the 2024 Solar Eclipse In Vermont.
5. St. Johnsbury, V.T.

Eclipse Begins: 2:15:47 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:28:13 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:29:52 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:38:15 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 1m 38.1s
St. Johnsbury is the most populous town in the northeast region of Vermont, known as the Northeast Kingdom. Between 7000 and 8000 Vermonters call it home.
On April 8th, St. Johnsbury will have the opportunity to experience solar totality for approximately one minute and thirty-eight seconds. The town is gearing up to make it a big event.
According to the town's Chamber of Commerce, solar eclipse celebrations will begin several days before the main event, eclipse day.

One of the great features of St. Johnsbury is its planetarium.
The Lyman Spritzer Jr. Planetarium, located at the Fairbanks Museum, will host an event named "Sun+Moon+You."
The celebration will be filled with eclipse-themed programs and exhibits and a NASA livestream with astronomy experts and educators speaking and answering questions.
The Vermont Public broadcast "Eye on the Sky" will also be onsite, airing live during the event and covering all the interesting topics about solar eclipses.
The Museum is also quite an attraction, with many fascinating exhibits of natural science and history from Earth's beginnings to the present day. Walking through and taking it all in would be worth your time (Suggested 2hrs.).

Another interesting stop for any curious-minded soul and art enthusiast is the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum.
First opened more than 150 years ago, It's a hybrid of an art gallery and library showcasing both art and literature with many cultural insights into the heritage of the local region.
During special events, artists perform music, and authors read their poems or selections from books. It's a must-see experience.

Expect all the wonderful amenities of a Vermont town in St. Johnsbury, unique shops, cafes, and a wide selection of eateries, such as farm-to-table cuisine and many international styles available. The town is very walkable.
Outdoor activities are plentiful if you're seeking nature and fresh air. The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is a multipurpose four-season recreation corridor connecting 18 towns, perfect for walking, hiking, or cycling.
Another local favorite is the highest point within St. Johnsbury, referred to as "The Knob" or "Observatory Knob." It has views of several different mountains.
6. Newport, V.T.

Eclipse Begins: 2:15:51 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:27:11 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:30:39 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:38:01 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 3m 28.2s
Newport comes in second on this list for the length of time to experience solar totality at an awesome Three minutes and twenty-eight seconds. That's an eternity in eclipse time to experience the solar corona.
This North Eastern Kingdom lake town is a hot spot during the summer months and will surely be active with visitors during the total eclipse.

Sitting on the shore of Lake Memphremagog, downtown is right off the water, with many unique small-town shops, an art center, pubs, and restaurants.
Lago Trattoria, located downtown on Main St., is a must-stop for Italian cuisine. They also have a bar if you would like to stop in for a cocktail or craft beer.

Stroll along The Boardwalk while taking in views, or ratchet up the activity with some biking on the 4.5-mile Newport Bike Path.

There will undoubtedly be celebrations throughout Newport, but another festival just 15 miles away at Jay Peak Ski Resort is an option to consider.
The celebration is named "The Whiteout" and will run all day on Sunday and Monday, eclipse Day. They will have music and educational events along with assigned viewing spaces.
State Parks Open
During Eclipse
Early April is outside the regular season for Vermont's parks, but the state will partially open a number of state parks to provide eclipse chasers with more options to view the solar eclipse on April 8.
The parks are Bomoseen, Boulder Beach, Branbury, Crystal Lake, DAR, Elmore, Emerald Lake, Mt. Philo, Grand Isle, Knight Point, Lake Shaftsbury, Lake St. Catherine, Little River, Niquette Bay, Silver Lake, and Waterbury Center. Additional information is available on Vermont's parks site.
How to find Solar Eclipse Times
for any location in Vermont
Here are step-by-step instructions to search eclipse times for any location in Vermont during the 2024 Solar Eclipse. Follow the link I have provided to begin. We will use the United States Naval Observatory's Solar Eclipse Computer.

Times are provided in the UT1 time zone/military style. In this example totality time begins in Burlington at 19:26:00 or 7:26:01 p.m. for UT1 time zone.
We then need to convert the UT1 time zone to the local time zone in Vermont/EDT. To do this we subtract 4 hours from the UTC1 zone which then becomes 15:26:01 or 3:26:01 p.m.
Converting military style -12:00 is noon. 13:00 is 1:00 pm and so on. In this example 15:26:01 would be 3:32:01 pm EDT.
Traveling to Vermont
There are two major commercial airports in Vermont for you to consider if flying in for the eclipse: the Burlington International Airport (BVT) and the Plattsburg International Airport (PBG).
Both have multiple commercial carriers, and one of the two will be within three hours of all locations on this list. There are several regional opt-ins as well.
Check pricing on rental cars and flights.
Can Weather Impact The Solar Eclipse Experience?
Unfavorable weather, unfortunately, is one factor that can entirely spoil the 2024 total solar eclipse experience.
Weather predictions are just that, predictions. Cloud cover is not our friend during an eclipse event.
It's wise to prepare and have a possible plan "B," by selecting a secondary location to travel to in time for the eclipse, in case your initial choice proves unsuitable. Perhaps the difference between lowland areas and the mountains.
What to Expect from the Weather in Vermont During the 2024 Eclipse
Vermont weather and temperatures can vary during early April as winter transitions into spring.
Using Burlington as an example, the average temperature range recorded from 1985-2015 was a low of 35˚ to a high of 55˚with an average visibility of 12 miles. You can modify for locations further north and south within the state.
Be sure to pack a variety of clothing for warm and colder weather.
The ground can be muddy in some locations as it thaws, so wear appropriate footwear.
What Will I Experience During
a Total Solar Eclipse in Vermont?
Vermont is a state with four strong season's to enjoy throughout the year. The eclipse will appear as the winter season transitions into early spring.
You may experience all or some of these phenomena during the eclipse weather permitting with favorable skies.
Changing of Light

You may notice a quality of light resembling the dawn or dusk twilight periods. Shadows become sharper.
Wildlife Behavior

Animals may begin to believe it is the end of the day and start their end-of-day rituals. Nocturnal animals begin to stir while birds may roost as they would in the evening.
A Drop in Temperature

As the Moon covers the Sun, there may be a notable change in temperature by several degrees.
Bailey's Beads

Moments before and after totality, the jagged lunar landscape allows small pockets of sunlight to shine through the valleys on the outer edge of the Moon, appearing as beads of light. These are known as Baily's Beads, named after Francis Baily, who first explained this phenomenon.
Diamond Ring Effect

The last moment before the Moon completely covers the Sun, the last bit of sunlight creates a sparkling effect on the edge of the Moon, which appears as a bright diamond with a ring around it.
Solar Corona

Perhaps the most spectacular sight is the solar corona, the Sun's outer atmosphere, which is usually invisible but can be seen during totality as a pearly white crown surrounding the black disk of the Moon.
Shadow Bands

These dark bands are elusive, wavy lines of alternating light and dark that can be seen moving on plain-colored surfaces just before and immediately after totality.
360-Degree Sunset

Often, in the sky during totality, there is a sunset-like effect that circles the entire horizon created from the light of the Sun shining through the atmosphere outside the path of totality.
For a deeper understanding of this process, read my article on what to expect during the 5 stages of a total solar eclipse.
Conclusion
If you love the outdoors, Vermont is a fantastic destination to enjoy nature and all its beauty. This state will not disappoint with its scenic backdrop for such an amazing celestial experience, the 2024 solar eclipse in Vermont.