The Connecticut and White Rivers converge in White River Junction. In the early 1800s, bridges constructed over these two waterways helped to form crossroad towns that remain to this day.
The Junction connects five towns from two states (Hartland; Norwich, Vermont; Hanover; Lebanon; and Plainfield, New Hampshire). The area is characterized by rich farmlands, dating back for two centuries. At one time, this area was a booming railroad stop. Today, Amtrak maintains a depot at the junction.
It's not just agriculture and dairy farming that's a hit here. Opera and live theater also play a high note in the region. Briggs Opera House and the Coolidge Hotel host many fine entertainers. With Dartmouth College just across the river, art lovers can revel in the masterpieces at Hood Museum of Art and the Hopkins Center.
Because of its ideal location for travel stopovers, White River Junction has a number of successful hotels, motels and eateries. But, it's not just a sitting duck. White River Junction offers some playgrounds for boaters, hikers and anglers. Nearby Quechee State Park has campsites available.
Woodstock Inn Resort has excellent facilities for downhill skiing with 23 trials, a double black diamond, and a spanking new snowboarding halfpipe. Nordic skiing and golf are also offered here.
The river brings life to the region as well. Canoeists and kayakers take to its waters. Anglers, too. Close by, the Appalachian Trail offers an excellent backcountry experience for hikers. And snowmobilers zip through numerous trails that zigzag through the towns. Boston Lot Lake in Lebanon is a 286-acre avian sanctuary and bird path that is a total pleasure in wildlife observation for naturalists.
Located at the crossroads of I-89 and I-91 near the New Hampshire boundary, White River Junction is a convergence between the worlds of yesterday and today, creating excitement and pleasure in the here and now.
