• Nathanael Asaro

Due to a global pandemic, Vermont is in a season of many unknowns. We're sure of one thing, though: Our summer is short and sweet, and we ought to make the best of it before cooler days and a potential second wave of COVID-19.

Seven Days created Staytripper to guide you to in-state recreation during this era of limited travel and heightened safety concerns. Your summer vacation plans may have been canceled, but you can stay and play right here; safer, socially distanced options abound in our rural landscape. This issue will point you in the right direction for picnicking, river swimming, alpaca petting and island biking adventures. Looking to truly get away from the crowds? It doesn't get much more remote than sailing on Lake Champlain or camping on a Northeast Kingdom lavender farm.

So, staytrip and stay safe. And remember that spending your "vacation" dollars at Vermont's struggling tourism businesses — from lodging to guided tours to attractions — helps them to survive this season and beyond.