The weather is getting nicer and Vermonters are eagerly counting down the days until summer is here. Are you ready? If you haven't made your summer bucket list, grab a pen and start writing. These places and things should get you started when planning the best summer in Vermont ever. Keep the conversation going and add your favorite things to do at the end!

1. Take your bike on the kingdom trails.

These multi-use trails in the Northeast Kingdom in northern Vermont are some of the best mountain biking trails in New England. Hikers and riders from all over come to enjoy these impeccably maintained trails. A truly epic experience!

2. Hop on a recreation path.

Walk, run, bike or blade your way along one of Vermont's many rec paths. Pictured is the award winning 6 mile path in Stowe.

3. Or maybe a causeway instead.

If you're looking for a change from your regular bike path, consider heading over to the nearest causeway like this one which is heading toward South Hero Island.

4. Find your favorite swimming hole and go there... a lot.

Pick your favorite natural swimming hole and learn every rock, fall and bridge nearby. It's amazing to have a place where you feel utterly familiar and comfortable.

5. Enjoy the magic of a waterfall.

Check out one of the stunning waterfalls in Vermont. Better yet - take our Waterfall Roadtrip and see even more!

6. Check out the gardens at Hildene.

The gardens at this Lincoln Family Estate are utterly spectacular. Check them out the last weeks of May and first weeks of June to enjoy the blooms of their amazing peonies.

7. Check out some hands-on fun at the Montshire Museum in Norwich.

Both inside and out, the Montshire is visually and intellectually stimulating. This museum has something for people of all ages, and if you have never been, it's a summer must!

8. Spend the day at the Shelburne Museum.

Whether you've been once or one hundred times, the Shelburne Museum never disappoints. Pack a picnic and make a whole day of it!

9. Hit the beach!

Just because Vermont isn't on the ocean, it doesn't mean that we don't have our share of wonderful beaches. Check out the beach at Lake Willoughby.

Or Island Pond...

Or Elmore...

Or Silver Lake in Barnard.

10. Spend a day (or 10) at the Champlain Valley Fair.

Your summer wouldn't be complete without a trip to the Champlain Valley Fair. There is so much to see and do that 10 days doesn't seem like enough time to take it all in!

11. Hike along the bottom of the Quechee Gorge.

Challenge your fear of heights and take in the Quechee Gorge. After you look down, hike to the bottom and look up for a different perspective.

12. Enjoy a cone at the Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury.

It's OK to be a tourist in your own state once in a while, so when you're on 89 just take a quick detour and get off at exit 10 and the factory is just up the road.

13. Soak in the stars at the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium.

It doesn't need to be a rainy day activity - the Fairbanks is a well appointed and funky place you're sure to enjoy.

14. Hike a Haystack.

No, not a stack of hay, but Haystack Mountain. You'll love the views if you put in the 4.8 mile hike up this beauty.

15. Visit a farmers market.

It seems like there is a farmers market in just about every town in Vermont so finding one near you shouldn't be hard. From tie-dye shirts to hot ginger pears (and everything in between) you'll find them at these lively markets. You'll also meet some of the nicest people there, too.

16. Paddle a canoe, kayak or tube.

What a way to see the world! Whether you head out on a big lake or float your way down a river, having fun on top of the water is a great summer activity.

17. Take the State Park Challenge.

There are 21 State Parks in Vermont, how many can you visit this summer?

What are your favorite summer activities? Be sure to include your favorite beaches!