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State Forest · VT

Marlston Hill State Forest

Marlston Hill State Forest offers a peaceful forested landscape ideal for hiking, wildlife observation, and nature photography in northeastern Vermont.

State Forest4254+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

425

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Marlston Hill State Forest

Marlston Hill State Forest offers a peaceful forested landscape ideal for hiking, wildlife observation, and nature photography in northeastern Vermont.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Marlston Hill State Forest covers a modest expanse of forestland located in the town of Marlboro, Vermont. The forest is characterized by mixed hardwood and conifer stands typical of the northeastern Appalachian region, including species such as sugar maple, yellow birch, red spruce, and eastern hemlock. This area provides important habitat for white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, and a variety of songbirds. Historically, the land was used for limited logging and farming prior to being designated as protected forestland to conserve local biodiversity and maintain watershed quality. The gently rolling terrain offers a variety of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore quiet woodlands and small streams. Trailheads are accessible by forest roads, and the area is a destination for locals seeking low-impact outdoor recreation including birdwatching, trail running, and nature study. While there are no designated campgrounds within the forest, nearby state parks offer camping options. Marlston Hill State Forest's combination of tranquility and accessible trails appeals to those looking for a less crowded natural experience in Vermont’s Green Mountains region.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Marlston Hill State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Cheshire Reservoir Fly Fishing in The Berkshires★ 7.0⌖ 16 miFly Fishing
The Berkshires

Cheshire Reservoir Fly Fishing in The Berkshires

Experience fly fishing at Cheshire Reservoir in The Berkshires. Ideal for all skill levels, this scenic spot offers fishing for rainbow trout and landlocked salmon. Best enjoyed in spring and fall, it provides family-friendly amenities and easy access.

Fly FishingView Details→
Discover Hamilton Falls★ 8.4⌖ 20 miHiking
Hamilton Falls

Discover Hamilton Falls

Explore Hamilton Falls in Jamaica, VT, with its 125-foot drop and scenic beauty. Hike through moderate trails, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. Enjoy a refreshing swim or a relaxing picnic. Best visited in spring and fall for mild weather.

Journey through Mohawk Trail★ 6.8⌖ 20 miScenic Drive
Mohawk Trail

Journey through Mohawk Trail

Experience the 63-mile Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts' scenic Berkshires. Drive through historic towns and vibrant fall foliage. Enjoy hiking, biking, and canoeing with views of rolling hills and rivers. Perfect for adventure seekers in fall.

Scenic DriveView Details→
Rock Climbing at Rose Ledge in The Berkshires★ 7.8⌖ 20 miRock Climbing
Erving

Rock Climbing at Rose Ledge in The Berkshires

Experience rock climbing at Rose Ledge in The Berkshires, Erving, featuring diverse routes for all skill levels. Known for its granite rock formations, this area offers adventure seekers stunning views and a thrilling climb. Best visited in spring and fall.

Rock ClimbingView Details→
Bridge of Flowers: A Floral Journey★ 3.0⌖ 21 miFloral Strolling
Bridge of Flowers

Bridge of Flowers: A Floral Journey

Explore the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, MA. This easy stroll showcases over 500 plant species, offering stunning views of the Deerfield River. Best visited in spring and summer, enjoy a serene and picturesque adventure from Water Street.

Floral StrollingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Overlook with panoramic views of the West River valley✦ Diverse hardwood and conifer forest mix supporting seasonal wildlife sightings✦ Network of multi-use trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking✦ Quiet stream crossings providing peaceful natural soundscapes
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Marlston Hill State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Marlston Hill State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Marlston Hill State Forest
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Marlston Hill State Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Marlston Hill State Forest
Park Recreation

Nature Photography

Available in Marlston Hill State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Marlston Hill State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits required; free public access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Marlston Hill State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Brattleboro
⌖ 2.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brattleboro, Vermont

A vibrant arts-focused town offering diverse outdoor adventures, with river access, forest trails, and seasonal sports in a scenic New England setting.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Lyons
⌖ 3.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lyons, Vermont

A quiet Vermont town offering peaceful access to forested hiking, river paddling, and scenic rural landscapes, ideal for travelers seeking a low-key, nature-focused experience.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Dummerston
⌖ 3.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dummerston, Vermont

A quiet Vermont town offering peaceful outdoor experiences with scenic river corridors, forest trails, and gentle hills ideal for paddling, hiking, and cycling.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Chesterfield
⌖ 6.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chesterfield, New Hampshire

A quiet rural town offering peaceful outdoor recreation with forested trails, rolling hills, and access to paddling and winter sports in southwestern New Hampshire.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowshoeing and skiingExplore Town
Marlboro
⌖ 6.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marlboro, Vermont

A quiet Vermont town offering rugged outdoor adventures with a strong focus on hiking, paddling, and winter sports amid forested hills and quiet waters.

Late spring through early fall for hiking and paddling; winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Putney
⌖ 7.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Putney, Vermont

A peaceful New England town offering scenic river paddling, easy hiking, and quiet country biking with strong seasonal charm and rural Vermont character.

Spring through Fall for paddling and biking; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Marlston Hill State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Aerial Adventure Park at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in CharlemontCharlemont, Massachusetts · 21.61 mi away
All Adventures· Berkshire East Mountain Resort

Aerial Adventure Park at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont

Looking for a fun and challenging outdoor activity? The Aerial Adventure Park at Berkshire East Mountain Resort offers towering obstacle courses and zip-lines wrapped in the scenic Berkshires—perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike. Read on to discover what makes this adventure a must-do in Massachusetts.

1–3 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.