The Mount Snow area in southern Vermont isn’t just a haven for skiing, hiking, and cozy cabin getaways—it’s also a photographer’s dream. From sweeping mountain views and misty lakes to charming covered bridges and cozy cafés, the Deerfield Valley is packed with picture-perfect moments waiting to be captured.
Whether you’re planning your grid in advance or just looking for a few epic backdrops to remember your trip by, here’s a local’s guide to the most Instagram-worthy spots around Mount Snow, West Dover, and Wilmington.
📸 1. Valley View Villa
Let’s start close to home—if you’re staying at Valley View Villa, you’ve already scored access to one of the most scenic private properties in the area. Snap photos of:
- The private pond at golden hour
- Snowy trees along the private hiking trail
- Relaxed hot tub moments under the stars
- A roaring firepit glow on chilly evenings
Pro tip: Morning light over the pond is magical, and snow-covered scenes in winter are straight out of a postcard.
📸 2. Mount Snow Summit
Take the Bluebird Express lift to the top of Mount Snow for panoramic views of the Green Mountains. On a clear day, you’ll capture endless rolling hills in every direction—especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. In summer, take the scenic chairlift and hike down for more shots along the trails.
📸 3. Hogback Mountain Overlook
Located right on Route 9 in Marlboro, the Hogback Mountain Scenic Overlook is one of the most iconic photo stops in the region. You’ll get a sweeping view of three states—Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire—and it’s especially stunning in fall when the foliage lights up in reds, oranges, and golds.
📸 4. Lake Whitingham (Harriman Reservoir)
This vast, 28-mile shoreline lake is a hidden gem for lakeside content. In summer, capture:
- Misty morning reflections
- Paddleboard or kayak adventures
- Sunset over the water
- Winter ice patterns (when frozen)
Bring a drone if you have one—this lake looks amazing from above.
📸 5. Downtown Wilmington
Wilmington is a quintessential Vermont town with historic buildings, charming storefronts, and old-world architecture that makes for a great backdrop. Don’t miss:
- The Wilmington Covered Bridge
- Dots Restaurant’s retro diner sign
- Shop windows and murals along Main Street
- Holiday lights in winter
Bonus: Stop into The Village Roost for a cozy coffee-and-scone photo opp.
📸 6. Sticky Fingers Bakery
Don’t underestimate the power of pastries! Located in West Dover, Sticky Fingers has adorable packaging, beautifully baked goods, and cozy interior lighting—perfect for that #coffeeandcake shot. Their cinnamon rolls and cookies are as photogenic as they are delicious.
📸 7. Beer Naked Brewery (Marlboro)
Perched high on a hill, Beer Naked Brewery offers unbeatable views and rustic picnic table charm. Snap a flight of local brews against the backdrop of mountains, or catch golden hour from the deck. It’s a bit of a drive (about 20 minutes from Mount Snow), but well worth it.
📸 8. Covered Bridge on Castle Hill Road
A lesser-known gem, this charming bridge outside Wilmington is postcard-perfect. Framed by trees and typically quiet, it’s ideal for family photos, engagement shots, or just a serene Vermont vibe for your feed.
📸 9. Snowmobile Trails (VAST System)
If you’re visiting in winter and out for a ride, Vermont’s snowmobile trails offer surreal snowscapes, especially when the forest is dusted in fresh powder. Even if you’re just walking near a trailhead, bring your camera—you might catch a glowy moment at sunset.
📸 10. Molly Stark State Park
Hike up to the Mount Olga fire tower for panoramic views from one of the highest points in the area. It’s a bit of a climb, but the 360-degree shots at the top are unbeatable. Fall is peak season for color, but you’ll find moody forest vibes year-round.
Bonus Tips for the Best Photos:
- Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) offers the best natural light.
- Winter tip: Fresh snow the morning after a storm makes everything glow.
- Bring layers—many of these locations can get breezy or cold, even in summer.
- Hashtags to try: #MountSnow #DeerfieldValley #VermontViews #WilmingtonVT #WestDoverVT
There’s no shortage of scenic moments here in southern Vermont—it’s one of the reasons we fell in love with the area and created Valley View Villa in the first place. Whether you’re chasing the perfect selfie, capturing family memories, or just soaking up the beauty of nature, you’ll find photo ops around every corner.
Don’t forget to tag your favorite shots with #ValleyViewVT—we love seeing our guests’ best Vermont moments!
