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Our Story
A Vermont walking tradition since the 1980s
THE EARLY YEARS
How it Began
The tour’s roots trace back to Fred and Jan Baldwin of Old Town Farm Inn in Chester, who helped establish Cycling Inn Vermont in the early 1980s. Around 1984, a walking version followed. Guests received detailed route maps, traveled from inn to inn at their own pace, and found their luggage waiting for them upon arrival—a format that still defines the experience today.
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As inns and innkeepers changed, the tradition continued. Around 1999, the participating inns began a new chapter as Vermont Inn to Inn Walking, with longtime innkeeper Ruth Combes helping lead the way. New inns have joined over the years, but the heart of the tour has remained remarkably consistent: thoughtful routes, locally owned inns, and genuine Vermont hospitality.
Through the Years
A Tradition Carried Forward
Today
Four locally owned inns continue the tradition for a new generation.
2012–2024
New inns join, and the tour reaches a growing community of walkers.
Early 1980s
The first inn-to-inn cycling routes take shape in Southern Vermont.
Around 1984
A walking version begins, pairing self-guided routes with welcoming country inns.
THROUGH THE YEARS
A Tradition Carried Forward
Around 1999
The participating inns begin a new chapter as Vermont Inn to Inn Walking.