Aprils Maple in Canaan, Vermont
Aprils Maple in Canaan, Vermont, is a necessary stop if you find yourself in the Northeast Kingdom.
Way up north, Aprils Maple sits in the upper northeast corner of Vermont. Just a stone’s throw away from Canada and nestled amongst the trees is one of my most favorite places to visit. I have relatives living over the state line in nearby New Hampshire and always make it a point to stop by. The place just has a welcoming, homey feeling and no visit is complete without my maple sugar fix. Plus, it’s fun to take silly pictures in the sleigh on the front porch.
Aprils Maple is a Family Affair
Aprils Maple honors the family and the generations that came before them. The land has been in the family for several generations and is still worked by them. It is truly a group effort to bring the maple delights to the public. Everyone contributes their part to creating this natural treat.
Their Core Values
- We are for friends and family.
- We are local.
- We make maple with integrity.
- We have fun.
These core values represent their dedication to creating natural maple products and contributing to their community in the best way possible.
Organic Certification and Sustainability
Aprils Maple is a certified organic maple syrup producer. This means that their maple syrup is produced without using synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Strict organic standards are followed to guarantee the quality and purity of their products.
The farm emphasizes sustainable practices in their maple syrup production. They use energy-efficient equipment, recycle their waste products, and employ responsible forest management techniques. Aprils Maple strives to minimize environmental impact while still producing delicious maple products.
Creating Syrup from Sap
We also have to remember that the sap to create maple syrup only runs for a very limited time ranging from January through April. The busiest month is April. This timetable is variable based upon the weather. Everything depends on cool nights with warmer days to make the sap flow. Before it begins to flow, the trees are tapped and each precious drop is caught to be turned into my favorite syrup. A lot of drops are needed.
Maple Syrup Production
Typically, it takes around 40 gallons of maple sap to produce one gallon of maple syrup!
Maple sap has a relatively low sugar content, typically ranging from 1% to 4%. To make maple syrup, the sap is boiled to evaporate the water content and concentrate the sugars. This process removes a significant amount of water from the sap, resulting in a reduction in volume.
During the boiling process, the sugar content of the sap increases. When it reaches around 66% sugar content, it is considered maple syrup. This concentration generally requires boiling down approximately 40 gallons of sap to produce one gallon of maple syrup. Liquid gold.
Vermont typically produces a large portion of the United State’s maple syrup. The production can fluctuate each year based on weather conditions, the health of the trees, and other variables. Even with these potential blocks, Vermont produced approximately 2.22 million gallons of maple syrup in 2020.
And maple syrup isn’t just for pancakes and French toast! I have used it in sauces and to baste chicken to give it a unique flavor that you must try for yourself! Maple syrup also makes a fantastic natural alternative to traditional white sugar in baking and other tasty treats. Click here to check out their recipe page for some tasty treats and savory meals.
Sweet Reasons to Visit Aprils Maple
Just in case you were wondering if it is worth it to stop here, check out these reasons. Each one will make you happy you came for a visit.
The Size of the Farm
The maple syrup farm is huge! Just check out these numbers:
- 813 acres of land
- 13,500 maple trees
- 300 miles of tubing
- an amazing shop and restaurant to buy their delicious goodies
Aprils Maple Products
Aprils Maple’s shop offers a whole selection of maple products. These range from syrups to maple cream, maple sugar, candies and all the way through to pancake mix and maple crunchies. Don’t pass by the crunchies! Sprinkle these little tidbits of maple sugar sweetness on pancakes, French toast, or anything else you’d like a crunchy burst of natural sugar on. They are so darn yummy.
The Maple Syrups
The syrups are graded according to color and flavor. Once you’ve tried real authentic maple syrup, the processed junk you buy at the supermarket will no longer be acceptable. Real maple syrup is thinner and pours much easier than the artificial goo you get at the store. I can’t even fathom using the artificial “syrup” anymore. A jug of Aprils Maple real maple syrup lives in my fridge.
Many people prefer the lightest colored syrups, but my favorites are the two darkest ones. You can taste a another level of flavor which I can only describe as a hint of molasses. But there’s no molasses in there! Pure maple syrup.
Maple Sugar Candies
Then there’s the maple sugar candy with the harder outside shell that gives way to tongue-melting maple sugar inside. If you didn’t guess already, I am a die-hard fan of maple syrup and maple sugar candies. I can’t pass by a package of these candies without buying them. They are so addicting.
Apparel and Household Gifts
Whether you buy for yourself or as a gift, they also have an ever-changing display of t-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, towels, stickers and magnets. April’s Maple also offers prepared gift baskets to share with someone special, or maybe even for yourself.
Online Gift Shop
Visit the online gift shop. They ship if you don’t trust carrying that special sweetness back with you. ( My maple candies never last until I get home). This way you can enjoy your maple treats no matter where you are located. It’s also a fantastic idea for original gift-giving ideas and they offer gift cards.
Don’t Pass By the Cafe
No visit is complete without walking through the small store area to the cafe. Depending on the season, there might be a wood stove crackling and throwing off welcomed heat. There are a variety of breakfast sandwiches, pancakes or French toast, sandwiches and hot dogs, along with hot drinks to suit everyone. And don’t forget the dessert!
Maple syrup is all about the sweetness and nothing showcases that flavor better than a Maple Cree-mee in a maple dipped cone rolled in maple crunchies. Pure heaven! Check out their menu and choose for yourself.
If exploring New England is your jam, check out this post about Rhode Island, my home state.
Getting to Aprils Maple from Canaan, Vermont
Although Canaan isn’t a city, or even a big town, it is one of the easiest starting points to get to Aprils Maple.
Once in Canaan, follow Route 114 northwest for a little over a mile. Then take the left at the split as you follow along Route 114. Continue on this road for approximately 6 miles and Aprils Maple will be on your left. There is a sign at the road.
Just to be safe, it is recommended to use GPS to get where you’re going safely. Aprils Maple is located on the main road of Route 114, but better safe than sorry.
What Can You Do in the Canaan Area?
Canaan, Vermont is a small town located in the beautiful Northeast Kingdom region. While it may not have a wide range of attractions within the town itself, there are several activities and places to explore in the surrounding area.
Outdoor Recreation Near Aprils Maple
The Northeast Kingdom is known for its stunning natural beauty, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. You can go hiking, biking, or camping in the nearby state parks like Lake Wallace State Park or Maidstone State Park. Fishing, boating, and swimming are popular in the many lakes and rivers in the area, such as Lake Willoughby and the Connecticut River.
Snowmobiling and Skiing
During the winter months, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at nearby ski resorts like Jay Peak Resort and Burke Mountain Resort. These resorts offer a range of slopes and trails for different skill levels. Snowmobiling is also extremely popular in the area and local places are connected by well-maintained trails to ride.
Observing Wildlife
The Canaan area is home to diverse wildlife, and you can explore nature trails and wildlife refuges for bird-watching and observing other animals. The Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge and Moose Bog Boardwalk are popular spots for wildlife viewing.
Scenic Drives
The region surrounding Canaan is known for its picturesque landscapes. Take a scenic drive along Route 114 or Route 105 to enjoy the charming countryside, rolling hills, and scenic vistas. This is at its most beautiful during the Autumn.
Indoor Recreation Near Aprils Maple
Visit the Canaan Historical Society Museum to learn about the town’s history and see artifacts from the past. It is located on the second floor of the Alice Ward Memorial Library at 27 Park Street.
Vermont is famous for its maple syrup. Aprils Maple is one of several maple farms in the area where you can learn about the syrup-making process and sample different maple products. Ask about tours and tastings at Aprils Maple and learn about the process of turning tree sap into sweet syrup.
Check the local event calendars for any festivals, fairs, or community events happening in and around Canaan during your visit. The region hosts various events throughout the year, including farmers markets, concerts, and seasonal celebrations.
Remember to check the availability and operating hours of attractions and businesses, as some may vary depending on the season or specific dates. Do your homework before making your plans and you’ll be fine.
When is the Best Time to Visit Aprils Maple in Canaan?
The best time of the year to visit is when you can get there! I have been in all seasons and each is a little different.
The Fall, or Autumn, is one of the most beautiful months in northern New England. All of the maple trees will be bursting with the reds, golds, and oranges of autumn in Vermont.
Just remember that the leaves will begin to turn sooner here than the southern part of New England. Peak color time is usually around the third week of September. By Columbus Day, which is the second Monday in October, the leaves have completed the color change. I got this knowledge first-hand from my aunt who lives less than 10 miles from Aprils Maple.
Visiting in winter time allows you to enjoy the cozy atmosphere and the crackling wood stove in the cafe. Try some of their soup or chili, or enjoy a hot beverage while staying warm. Many snowmobilers make this one of their stops to warm up and refuel themselves.
Depending on when Spring finally arrives in the Northeast Kingdom, the weather can still be cold and damp. Warming up by the fire is still welcoming and enjoying a sweet treat will make anyone feel better.
Summertime is great because a Maple Cree-mee ice cream cone tastes the best during the warmer months. If you like an ice cream shake, make sure to try one. I finally had one last year and it was amazing. Don’t forget the whipped cream on top!
Visiting Aprils Maple is a Sweet Time For All
Aprils Maple may be located way up in the Northeast Kingdom of Northern New England, but it is definitely worth the time to plan a trip there to check out their homemade treats. There is something for every member of the family and anyone with a sweet tooth will thank you!
Stop by for a snack, a hot drink, or even a meal. Their ice cream is another surprise you don’t want to miss. No matter the season, there is something there you will love to taste.
Remember their slogan of “Deep Roots Make Fine Syrup” and enjoy your visit.
