New this summer! Venture Vermont Outdoor Challenge 2008 a statewide outside scavenger hunt!

Vermont Naturalist Programs Since 1975, the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation has sponsored a summer naturalist program. From mid-June to Labor Day, naturalists live in parks throughout Vermont and schedule weekly events.

Programs may include: astronomy hikes to unique areas guided nature walks nature movies campfire programs guest speakers Indian and early American crafts canoe and boat outings visits to historic sites junior naturalist activities

Anyone may participate by visiting the park for day use or camping - there's no additional fee. Upon request, naturalists will also lead programs for groups such as scouts or nature clubs.

Nature Centers and Trails

Each park has unique features. Some have nature centers or museums, while others have historic trails or exceptional natural features such as bogs, fossils, cascading waterfalls, or rare animals such as the peregrine falcon.

Walking and hiking trails are maintained throughout the State Forest and Park system. Some have self-guiding nature trails. Brochures and maps are available from the Waterbury office or from individual parks.

Ranger-Naturalist Programs

Through the Green Mountain Club (GMC) ranger-naturalists patrol the summits of Mt. Mansfield (Mt. Mansfield State Forest) and Camel's Hump (Camel's Hump State Park) to help visitors and to protect the rare alpine tundra, from May through October.

Naturalist Programs are available in the following Parks:

Brighton Burton Island Button Bay Grand Isle Groton State Forest Jamaica Lake Carmi Lake St. Catherine Little River Woodford