New 8-mile Norcross Trail now open at Mt. Ascutney

The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) in partnership with Ascutney Trails Association (ATA) announced the completion and opening of a new multi-use trail on Mt. Ascutney. The 8-mile Norcross Trail provides a link for mountain bikers and hikers between the Ascutney Outdoors Center and Mount Ascutney State Park.

Parking Updates Online For Select State Parks

Vermont State Parks has launched Twitter accounts for four of our busiest parks with limited parking to help you plan ahead and maximize your free time.

Vermont Days - State Park Day Use Entry FREE & COVID-19 Walk-in Clinics in Many Parks

The annual Vermont Days Weekend will be held this coming weekend, June 12-13, 2021, offering an opportunity to celebrate the arrival of summer and to explore Vermont’s fishing, state parks and historic culture. As the state continues its push to 80% of eligible Vermonters receiving their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, walk-up clinics will be held at numerous State Parks across the state.

Words in the Woods Returns for 2021

These programs allow Vermonters and visitors to enjoy our state’s natural beauty while listening to and reading literature in the outdoors. Words in the Woods events are made possible by Vermont Humanities, the Vermont Arts Council, and a sponsorship by a Northeast Kingdom donor in honor of poet Judy Chalmer.

Waterbury Reservoir Remote Campsites Can Now Be Reserved in Advance

The 27 popular remote campsites along the reservoir perimeter can be reserved in advance. While there is no fee for the campsite itself this year, there will be an $8 reservation transaction fee to cover the costs of reservation processing.

The 2021 Venture Vermont Outdoor Challenge is on!

Vermont State Parks is happy to announce that the 2021 Venture Vermont Outdoor Challenge is on. Complete 250 points worth of activities and earn a gold VIP pass good for free park entry for 2021 and 2022!

Vermont State Parks offers Virtual Job Fair

On Tuesday, April 6, from 6:00 – 7:00 PM, Vermont State Parks hiring managers will give an online presentation on job opportunities in Vermont State Parks this summer.

Mud Season Trail Closures

The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) and its partners remind hikers of mud season at this time of year and ask for the public’s help protecting Vermont’s trails. And this year, COVID-19 is still a dominant concern, even with more people vaccinated. FPR and partners are asking for the public’s assistance with making smart choices to protect both public health and trails during this vulnerable time.

Enter the 'Best In Snow Photo Contest'

Vermont State Parks is pleased to announce the 2021 Best In Snow - Vermont State Parks Photo Contest. We are looking for high quality images in Vermont State Parks during the winter season from any year. There are two categories for the contest: scenic landscapes and action shots. Prizes will be awarded to 1st and 2nd place in each category.

Celebrate the New Year with a First Day Hike

On January 1, 2021, everyone is once again invited to celebrate the New Year by heading out on the trails at a Vermont State Park. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, First Day Hikes will be a little different from previous years.

Mt. Philo Trail Project Completed For Season, Set to Restart in Spring

As a significant trail project at Mt. Philo State Park ends for the season, project managers and visitors alike are commending the improvements and the broader benefits to Vermont’s outdoor recreation economy.

Now Available - Gift Cards and Certificates

We are excited to announce two new ways to stuff stockings or to build your own gift set: gift certificates and gift cards!

Director of State Parks: Job Announcement

The Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR) seeks a Director of State Parks. This is a key management position within the Department and is responsible for management of the Vermont state park system, including park planning and operations, capital construction and maintenance activities, and marketing and promotional efforts.

Director of State Parks Retiring

Vermont State Parks Director Craig Whipple will be retiring at the end of August 2020, after 14 years in his position. Under Director Whipple's leadership, our world-class state park system has expanded, modernized, and become more accessible.

Seeking Public Input on Mt. Philo State Park Improvements

The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation is seeking public feedback on the potential designs to enhance Mt. Philo State Park. The intent of the planning process is to update the park to meet current visitor needs, while protecting the environment, enhancing historic and cultural resources and making needed safety improvements.

Outdoor Recreation in Vermont: Healthy Options During COVID-19

During the current COVID-19 public health crisis, getting outdoors close to home and connecting with nature is an excellent way to help maintain our mental and physical health.No matter how you enjoy the outdoors, we urge you to practice effective “social distancing” and other measures to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep you, your family and your community safe.

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2020 Venture Vermont Outdoor Challenge

We're excited to announce that the 2020 Venture Vermont Outdoor Challenge is a go! Complete fun challenges, try new things, and earn your VIP coin giving you free state park entry for the rest of the year and the next! Are you ready?

2020 First Day Hikes

Start the new year on the right foot with a hike in a Vermont state park. On January 1, 2020, everyone is invited to join a free, guided, family-friendly hike taking place at many state parks and forests across Vermont. Hikes will be led by professional guides and outdoor educators eager to share their knowledge and love of Vermont’s outdoors.

New cabins now available at Mt. Ascutney State Park

Mt. Ascutney is one of Vermont’s oldest state parks and popular hiking destination. The park is expanding its offerings to include five cabins. The cabins are newly finished in 2019 and are now available.

Completion of Improvements to Alburgh Dunes State Park

Vermont State Parks is excited to announce the completion of a significant infrastructure project at Alburgh Dunes State Park, featuring new parking areas, accessibility improvements, a visitor contact center with portable toilets and changing stalls, and a new accessible natural playground, among other elements.

Vermont Parks Forever: The Foundation for Vermont State Parks

Thanks to a dedicated group of dynamic park lovers, Vermont State Parks has some new champions. Vermont Parks Forever leverages private resources to expand access, increase educational opportunities and welcome the next generation to Vermont State Parks. We greatly appreciate your support!