If you’ve read or seen the iconic books or films “Lord of the Rings” or “The Hobbit,” you’re probably familiar with the term “Middle Earth.” This imaginary realm created by JRR Tolkien was based upon his childhood growing up in the midlands of England, but in today’s pop culture it is a phrase used to describe being in a very obscure place. If you’re looking to jump into the pages of mythical surroundings, Smugglers’ Notch State Park in Stowe is the place for you! It’s one of the best state parks to visit in Vermont.
Smugglers’ Notch State Park is one of the best state parks in Vermont and you can find it near Stowe. Elevated 2,119 feet and near Mount Mansfield, which is the highest peak in Vermont, you can bet on finding spectacular scenery.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Endless adventures here await for the brave at heart. This park offers numerous hiking trails in Vermont and plenty of recreation for all who visit.
Flickr/Martin Pilote
The steep cliffs can be unnerving for those afraid of heights - or avalanches!
Flickr/Jim Liestman
Trees grow in places and conditions that are completely unexpected, but the unique attributes are all part of what makes this one of the best parks in Vermont.
Flickr/Cory Janiak
The rocks also defy expectations, providing many places to climb and hide.
Flickr/Neil Hunt
Hide out in a cave if you’re brave as there are several caves of all sizes. Some are easy to find, and many take a bit of a hunt, but it’s very worth the effort to check them out!
Flickr/Jeff Myers
When in the Notch, don’t miss a short but steep hike to Bingham Falls. This will become one of your favorite hiking trails in Vermont.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
If the weather is right (and you’re not afraid of the cold) take a dip in this natural swimming hole.
Flickr/Leslee_atFlickr
Winter hikes to the falls are out of this world! There’s nothing more enchanting than seeing a frozen waterfall in Vermont in the winter.
Kristin Grimes/Only In Your State
Enjoy the snow capped mountain views in winter.
Flickr/Leslie Stormes
The drive through Smuggler’s Notch during the fall foliage was named one of the top ten tree tunnels in the world!
Flickr/heipei
Rocky cliffs and the natural colors combine to make Smuggler’s Notch State Park one of the most unbelievable places and best state parks in Vermont to explore.
Flickr/Rain0975
Or should we say… Middle Earth…
Canopic/Flickr
Have you been to Smuggler’s Notch State Park yet? What do you think are some of the best state parks to visit in Vermont? Tell us in the comments! And if you love nature, feel free to join our Vermont Nature Lovers Facebook group where you can ask questions, share photos, and connect with other nature enthusiasts!
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Flickr/Martin Pilote
Flickr/Jim Liestman
Flickr/Cory Janiak
Flickr/Neil Hunt
Flickr/Jeff Myers
Flickr/Doug Kerr
Flickr/Leslee_atFlickr
Kristin Grimes/Only In Your State
Flickr/Leslie Stormes
Flickr/heipei
Flickr/Rain0975
Canopic/Flickr
For another Vermont State Park that’s out of this world, check out Allis State Park and soak in the amazing scenery.
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Address: 6443 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best State Parks To Visit in Vermont January 28, 2022 Melissa M. What are some of the best state parks in Vermont? Aside from Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont has 54 other state parks to explore. That’s a lot of ground to cover, so let’s take a look at what many consider to be the “best.” Located in Groton State Forest alone are seven state parks, each offering its own unique attributes. Camel’s Hump State Park offers numerous trails and stunning vistas which are reasons enough to be considered one of the best state parks in Vermont. What are some of the best things to do outside in Vermont? With its gorgeous mountains, Vermont is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Of course, there are plenty of trails to explore but there are plenty of other adventures to be had around the state. Canoeing, kayaking, or tubing on a river for one. In the winter, you can hit the slopes on one of the many mountains or go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing out on the trails. The options for outdoor adventure are quite endless in The Green Mountain State! Where can I find the best hiking trails in Vermont? The beauty of Vermont may best be seen out on the trails, but not everyone can hike a long distance. Head to our post, 18 Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Vermont Should Take, for some easier, yet scenic hikes.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best State Parks To Visit in Vermont
January 28, 2022
Melissa M.
What are some of the best state parks in Vermont? Aside from Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont has 54 other state parks to explore. That’s a lot of ground to cover, so let’s take a look at what many consider to be the “best.” Located in Groton State Forest alone are seven state parks, each offering its own unique attributes. Camel’s Hump State Park offers numerous trails and stunning vistas which are reasons enough to be considered one of the best state parks in Vermont. What are some of the best things to do outside in Vermont? With its gorgeous mountains, Vermont is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Of course, there are plenty of trails to explore but there are plenty of other adventures to be had around the state. Canoeing, kayaking, or tubing on a river for one. In the winter, you can hit the slopes on one of the many mountains or go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing out on the trails. The options for outdoor adventure are quite endless in The Green Mountain State! Where can I find the best hiking trails in Vermont? The beauty of Vermont may best be seen out on the trails, but not everyone can hike a long distance. Head to our post, 18 Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Vermont Should Take, for some easier, yet scenic hikes.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Aside from Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont has 54 other state parks to explore. That’s a lot of ground to cover, so let’s take a look at what many consider to be the “best.” Located in Groton State Forest alone are seven state parks, each offering its own unique attributes. Camel’s Hump State Park offers numerous trails and stunning vistas which are reasons enough to be considered one of the best state parks in Vermont.
What are some of the best things to do outside in Vermont?
With its gorgeous mountains, Vermont is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Of course, there are plenty of trails to explore but there are plenty of other adventures to be had around the state. Canoeing, kayaking, or tubing on a river for one. In the winter, you can hit the slopes on one of the many mountains or go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing out on the trails. The options for outdoor adventure are quite endless in The Green Mountain State!
Where can I find the best hiking trails in Vermont?
The beauty of Vermont may best be seen out on the trails, but not everyone can hike a long distance. Head to our post, 18 Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Vermont Should Take, for some easier, yet scenic hikes.
