Green Mountain National Golf

Golf Scramble

The Trailside Inn

Friday Night Welcome Party

Wedding Day

Farewell Brunch

Our Wedding

❤️ Our Story – Renee &amp; JohnWhat started as a simple work call turned into a partnership that neither of us saw coming — and one we couldn’t imagine our days without. We became best friends first; in between meetings, appointments and hectic schedules, we turned even the busiest of days into good ones. We share a love for adventure, travel, and the great outdoors — golf, water days, road trips, cooking, live music, and every spontaneous “let’s go” moment in between. From the day we met, we just knew… and every moment since has been an adventure worth remembering. We’ve been told we live life in the fast lane — and we’ll happily take that as a compliment! So, meet us in Vermont, where we’ll dance the night away and take the next step in our journey surrounded by all of you — our favorite people.

Our Story

✈️ Travel Information – Getting to Killington, Vermont

Whether you’re flying in from near or far, <a href="https://thetouristchecklist.com/things-to-do-in-killington-vt/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Killington, Vermont</a> is nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains and surrounded by some of the most scenic drives in New England. While there’s no direct public transportation to the area, renting a car is essential — and part of the fun! The journey itself is a highlight, with winding country roads, covered bridges, and charming small towns along the way. Burlington International Airport is the closest major option, but several others offer convenient routes depending on your travel plans.

Closest Airports

Burlington (BTV)&nbsp;– ~1.5 hrs • Small, efficient • Closest &amp; most scenic Boston Logan (BOS)&nbsp;– ~3.5 hrs • Major hub • Most flight options Albany (ALB)&nbsp;– ~2 hrs • Medium size • Easy West Coast access Hartford Bradley (BDL)&nbsp;– ~2.5 hrs • Medium size • Central New England access

🚗 Pro Tip: Make the Drive Part of the Experience

Rent a car you’ll love driving. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle is ideal for Vermont’s mountain roads — especially in October when the weather can shift quickly. Take your time. Plan for a few scenic stops along the way; there are maple stands, farm markets, and overlooks that are worth every minute. Fuel up before you go. Many routes between towns are rural and picturesque — meaning gas stations and coffee stops can be spaced out. Download your map offline. Cell service can be spotty in the mountains, so having Google Maps or Apple Maps downloaded ensures you’ll never miss a turn. Embrace the drive. The rolling hills, covered bridges, and bursts of fall color are truly unforgettable — your Vermont adventure begins the moment you hit the road!

✈️ Travel Routes & Road-Trip Ideas 🚗 

From Burlington International Airport (BTV) ~1.5-2 hrs driveRoute: BTV → I-89 South → US-4 → KillingtonSuggested Stops:Sugarbush Farm — Maple syrup tasting and general store charm.Quechee Gorge — A dramatic gorge and prime foliage photo stop.Sherburne Pass (just before Killington) — Great Mountain views entering the destination area.--From Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) ~3-3.5 hrs drive Route: BOS → I-93 North → I-89 North → US-4 → KillingtonSuggested Stops:Hanover, NH / Dartmouth area — Quick stretch, quaint town atmosphere.Woodstock, VT — Picture-perfect Vermont village, ideal for a lunch or photo break. <a href="https://newenglandwanderlust.com/boston-to-stowe-vt/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New England Wanderlust</a>--From Albany International Airport (ALB) ~2-2.5 hrs driveRoute: ALB → I-87 North → NY-149 East → US-4 East → KillingtonSuggested Stops:Lake George, NY — Lakeside photo opportunity in the Adirondacks.Woodstock, VT (optional detour) — Adds Vermont village charm to the drive.--From Bradley International Airport (BDL) ~2.5 hrs driveRoute: BDL → I-91 North → VT-103 → VT-100 → US-4 → KillingtonSuggested Stops:The Vermont Country Store in Rockingham — Unique local shopping experience.Okemo Mountain Resort area — Scenic Mountain road, great for a quick photo or coffee break.

Getting to Vermont

🏨 Accommodations

We’re so excited to celebrate our wedding weekend with all of you in beautiful<a href="https://www.vermontvacations.com/blog/10-unique-and-fun-facts-about-killington-vermont" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Killington, Vermont!</a>We still have (2) houses available for group accommodations, the BARN and LOFT guesthouses.The Barn - 4 bedrooms (sleeps 12), 2 full baths, a full kitchen, and an extra-large living room with comfortable seating, TVs, and a pool table.The Loft - 5 Queen Bedrooms (sleeps 10), 2 full baths, and a full kitchen. Each bedroom has one Queen bed.

Booking Details

We would absolutely love for everyone to stay with us at The Trailside Inn, where our wedding weekend will take place. We’ve reserved the entire property exclusively for our celebration from Thursday, October 8 through Sunday, October 11, 2026, and it will be the heart of our time together — cozy, welcoming, and filled with family and friends.Staying at The Trailside Inn (Our Preferred Option)To book your room at The Trailside Inn, please visit👉 <a href="http://www.trailsideinnvt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.trailsideinnvt.com</a> and click BOOK NOW(For group reservations, please call the Trailside Inn)Select your dates: October 9 – October 11, 20262-night minimum (Friday &amp; Saturday). We warmly welcome guests to arrive as early as Thursday.Enter promo code: oct10 (required to access our block)We truly can’t wait to spend this unforgettable weekend together surrounded by all the people we love most.Note: All non-hotel guests are kindly asked to depart The Trailside Inn by 10 p.m. each night.With love,Renee &amp; JohnOctober 10, 2026 • Killington, VT

TRAILSIDE INN - WEDDING VENUE 

Killington Mountain Lodge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

🏔️ Killington Mountain Lodge – Tapestry Collection by Hilton (Secondary Option – Perfect for Shorter or More Flexible Stays)Address: 2617 Killington Road, Killington, VT 05751Phone: (802) 422-4302Email: <a href="mailto:info@killingtonmountainlodge.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@killingtonmountainlodge.com</a>Website: <a href="https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ruttyup-killington-mountain-lodge/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">killingtonmountainlodge.com</a> Drive Time to Trailside: ~7–10 minutes For guests who plan to stay one night, prefer additional flexibility, or are unable to meet the Trailside Inn’s two-night minimum, we’ve reserved a room block of 20 rooms at the Killington Mountain Lodge, located just a few minutes down the road. Booking Link: <a href="https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/deeplink/?ctyhocn=RUTTYUP&amp;groupCode=90S&amp;arrivaldate=2026-10-08&amp;departuredate=2026-10-12&amp;cid=OM,WW,HILTONLINK,EN,DirectLink&amp;fromId=HILTONLINKDIRECT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Donaldson-Barger Wedding </a>You can book 1-4 nights from Thursday, October 8th - Monday, October 11th. Killington Mountain Lodge, part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, offers a modern take on Vermont comfort with warm mountain charm. Conveniently located just off Killington Road, this beautifully remodeled hotel (2022) combines rustic wood beams and cozy gathering spaces with contemporary finishes and panoramic mountain views.

Accomodations

Wedding Weekend Weather Prediction 🍁

October is beautiful in Vermont, but mountain weather can change quickly. Come prepared for mild fall afternoons and chilly evenings.What to Expect🌡️ Afternoon: Typically upper 50s to low 60s🍂 Evening: Expect temperatures to fall into the 40s🌧️ Rain: Always possible, so pack accordingly🧥 Best advice: Bring layers!What to PackBring a jacket, sweater, wrap or shawl for the evening, and comfortable footwear. The Trailside Inn has umbrellas on site in case of rain. Ladies, if your hands get cold like mine, bring gloves! 🧤 You will not regret it. A cute pair tucked into your bag may be your favorite accessory by the end of the night.Wedding Weather WatchWe'll update this page during wedding week with the forecast specifically for our 3:00 PM ceremony, including:Temperature • Rain • Wind • SunsetCheck back as we get closer for the latest forecast.Whatever Vermont weather brings, we can't wait to celebrate with you! 🍁🥂

Weather Prediction

15-min Drive from Trailside InnEmbark on an unforgettable 1.25-mile journey aboard the K-1 Express Gondola to the summit of Killington Peak. At 4,241 feet, Vermont's second tallest and highest lift-serviced peak offers unparalleled vistas that change with the seasons. As you ascend, watch the landscape unfold beneath you. DINING AT 4,241'Open daily, the Peak Lodge offers a dining experience unlike any other, with breathtaking views and fresh mountain air. The Peak Lodge is only reachable by the K-1 Express Gondola. At the top, Killington Peak is just a short hike away offering 360-degree panoramic views that showcase Vermont's natural beauty in all directions. Fall Schedule:Sept. 11 - Oct. 13, 2025Daily: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.Lift tickets must be purchased online, even if you are buying day-of.&nbsp;Rates are dynamic and the prices are dependent on how far in advance you book and day of the week you plan on visiting. The earlier you buy, the bigger the savings, so lock in your access to the mountain as soon as possible.

K-1 Gondola - Killington

18-min Drive to Trailside Inn“Take a Hike” to Long Trail Brewery!Our spacious riverside pub &amp; restaurant was inspired by the Hofbräu House in Munich, Germany. It is a magnificent place where the beer is plentiful, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is down-home comfort.

Long Trail Brewing Company

12-min Drive from Trailside InnThe Still on the Mountain Craft Cocktail Bar &amp; Restaurant offers a full range of craft cocktails and Vermont beer and cider, as well as a full dinner menu. Home to Vermont’s finest craft spirits, enjoy their handcrafted small batch spirits inspired from the blissful Killington region. Sit outside après ski or bike or enjoy their cozy pub or dining rooms with a view of Killington.

Killington Distillery - Still on the Mountain

6-min Drive from Trailside InnNestled right in the heart of Killington, Thundering Brook Falls is a stunning natural gem and one of Vermont’s most beautiful waterfalls. A short, accessible boardwalk trail leads you through peaceful forest scenery to this dramatic cascade, which drops more than 100 feet over terraced rock ledges. The falls are part of the Appalachian Trail and offer a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure—an ideal spot for guests to enjoy the beauty of Vermont between wedding festivities.Whether you’re looking for a quiet morning walk, a scenic photo opportunity, or simply a place to breathe in the mountain air, Thundering Brook Falls captures the spirit of Killington—natural, timeless, and unforgettable.

Thundering Brook Falls Trail Trailhead Parking

11-min Drive from Trailside InnKillington's "Go to" Restaurant The Lookout Tavern has long been Killington’s “Go To” spot for casual and fun dining! We offer a local-oriented, welcoming, and energy-filled bar. We offer creative and classic fare including the best wings in Vermont, ice-cold local craft beer, house-made specialty cocktails, steak burgers, and more! We feature a diverse, fun, and exciting menu for both adults and kids alike. We offer lunch and entrees from 11:30 to 9:00 pm, 7 days a week.

The Lookout Tavern

2-min Drive / 10-min Walk from Trailside Inn#1 Course in Vermont! Vermont golf has a lot to offer its residents and visiting guests, and Green Mountain National is a must-play for every golfer. Voted as the #1 public golf course in Vermont, Green Mountain National features 18 pristine championship holes, set amid the green mountains and natural beauty.&nbsp; Carved out of the majestic Green Mountains, our course offers solitude and a “private” golf experience that will challenge players of all abilities.

Green Mountain National Golf Course

Things to Do

Registry

Photos

My sister, my built-in best friend, and my forever adventure partner. We’ve traveled to the other side of the world together—twice—and we’re just getting started. She’s a total badass welder who gets things done and has no problem telling you to move aside… she’s got this.

Cara Donaldson

My best friend since middle school and my West Coast soulmate. She followed me out to California after college, and I truly wouldn’t call this place home without her. Life is better, louder, and way more fun with Alicia by my side.

Alicia Gannon

My ride-or-die from day one. We started as neighbors and became colleagues in a business neither of us imagined—but now we’re out here slaying the solar game together. In it to win it, baby!

Brionna Robbins

A wonderful friend who shares so many parallel life experiences with me—it’s the kind of bond that never breaks. She’s equal parts tough and sweet and trust me… you don’t want to mess with her. I’m so grateful to have her in my corner.

Lila Murphy

My go-to gal for weekend adventures (and weekday ones back in the day, too!). Whether we’re traveling the world or just laughing over dinner, it’s always a blast. Near or far, our friendship is always on lock.

Alison Julian

Truly one of the kindest people you’ll ever meet. We’ve grown so close, and I’m incredibly thankful for her steady support and beautiful heart. She’s got my back, I’ve got hers—let’s rock!

Micaela Fischer

The Bridal Party

Q + A

✈️ Travel Information – Getting to Killington, VermontWhether you’re flying in from near or far, Killington is nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains and surrounded by some of the most scenic drives in New England. While there’s no direct public transportation to the area, renting a car is essential — and part of the fun! The journey itself is a highlight, with winding country roads, covered bridges, and charming small towns along the way. Burlington International Airport is the closest major option, but several others offer convenient routes depending on your travel plans. Closest AirportsBurlington (BTV) – ~1.5 hrs • Small, efficient • Closest &amp; most scenicBoston Logan (BOS) – ~3.5 hrs • Major hub • Most flight optionsAlbany (ALB) – ~2 hrs • Medium size • Easy West Coast accessHartford Bradley (BDL) – ~2.5 hrs • Medium size • Central New England access 🚗 Pro Tip: Make the Drive Part of the Experience Rent a car you’ll love driving. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle is ideal for Vermont’s mountain roads — especially in October when the weather can shift quickly. Take your time. Plan for a few scenic stops along the way; there are maple stands, farm markets, and overlooks that are worth every minute. Fuel up before you go. Many routes between towns are rural and picturesque — meaning gas stations and coffee stops can be spaced out. Download your map offline. Cell service can be spotty in the mountains, so having Google Maps or Apple Maps downloaded ensures you’ll never miss a turn. Embrace the drive. The rolling hills, covered bridges, and bursts of fall color are truly unforgettable — your Vermont adventure begins the moment you hit the road!

--✈️ Travel Routes &amp; Road-Trip Stop Ideas 🚗&nbsp; From Burlington International Airport (BTV) ~1.5-2 hrs driveRoute: BTV → I-89 South → US-4 → KillingtonSuggested Stops:Sugarbush Farm — Maple syrup tasting and general store charm.Quechee Gorge — A dramatic gorge and prime foliage photo stop.Sherburne Pass (just before Killington) — Great Mountain views entering the destination area.--From Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) ~3-3.5 hrs drive Route: BOS → I-93 North → I-89 North → US-4 → KillingtonSuggested Stops:Hanover, NH / Dartmouth area — Quick stretch, quaint town atmosphere.Woodstock, VT — Picture-perfect Vermont village, ideal for a lunch or photo break. <a href="https://newenglandwanderlust.com/boston-to-stowe-vt/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New England Wanderlust</a>--From Albany International Airport (ALB) ~2-2.5 hrs driveRoute: ALB → I-87 North → NY-149 East → US-4 East → KillingtonSuggested Stops:Lake George, NY — Lakeside photo opportunity in the Adirondacks.Woodstock, VT (optional detour) — Adds Vermont village charm to the drive.--From Bradley International Airport (BDL) ~2.5 hrs driveRoute: BDL → I-91 North → VT-103 → VT-100 → US-4 → Killington Suggested Stops:The Vermont Country Store in Rockingham — Unique local shopping experience.Okemo Mountain Resort area — Scenic Mountain road, great for a quick photo or coffee break.

Travel

⛳ THE BARGER-DONALDSON OPEN

Friday, October 9, 2026Green Mountain National Golf CourseKillington, VermontFirst Tee Time: 8:00 AMGolfers, take a quick look through the details below before signing up.

⛳ THE PLAN

Tee block begins at 8:00 AM on Hole #1,with foursomes heading out in 10 min. intervals.18 holes: $137 per golfer, including cart and tax.Check in and pay at the golf shop that morning.Don't have a foursome? No problem.The course starter can help us organize groups.

🏌️ GOT CLUBS? BRING 'EM!

If you can reasonably bring your clubs to Vermont, we highly recommend it!Rental clubs are limited to approximately 8 right-handed and 2 left-handed sets, and the course asks that golfers not share clubs because it slows down play.Need rentals? Just let John know in advance and we'll help coordinate.

9️⃣ PLAY 9 OR JUST RIDE ALONG?

If you'd prefer to play 9 or simply ride along with your favorite golfer, message John Barger and we'll coordinate with the course.Ride-along spots are subject to cart availability.

☕ GRACIE'S GRILLE @ The Clubhouse

No clubs. No cart. No problem.Come see us off at Gracie's Grille, right at the clubhouse! Grab breakfast, coffee or a drink from the full bar, enjoy the mountain views, and watch the golfers head out for the morning.With a relaxed clubhouse atmosphere and plenty of seating, it's the perfect spot to hang out before or during the round.Coffee and breakfast in a warm clubhouse while everyone else heads onto a chilly Vermont golf course? Also a pretty solid option.

🍁 GOLFING FRIDAY? COME THURSDAY!

October mornings in the Vermont mountains can be chilly and occasionally frosty.We strongly encourage golfers to arrive on Thursday, get settled, and join us on Thursday night rather than traveling to Killington on Friday morning.

⛳ REGISTRATION