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Mt. Mansfield State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · VT

Mt. Mansfield State Forest

Mt. Mansfield State Forest is Vermont's largest state forest offering a diverse range of outdoor activities amidst rich biodiversity and stunning mountain landscapes.

State Forest44,4444+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

44,444

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mt. Mansfield State Forest

Mt. Mansfield State Forest is Vermont's largest state forest offering a diverse range of outdoor activities amidst rich biodiversity and stunning mountain landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Mt. Mansfield State Forest spans over 44,444 acres in Vermont, housing the highest peak in the state, Mt. Mansfield. Its unique geology includes a combination of rugged mountain terrain, dense forests, and alpine tundra at the summit. The area is rich in biodiversity, featuring hardwood forests, diverse wildlife including bear and moose, and rare plant species. Established in 1939, the forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering extensive hiking trails, including sections of the Long Trail, Vermont's famous hiking trail, and backcountry skiing opportunities. The forest's appeal lies in its varied topography and ecological richness, making it a favorite for both leisurely walks and challenging climbs. Key attractions include the summit ridge of Mt. Mansfield, providing breathtaking panoramic views and ample opportunities for photography. This state forest is popular among both locals and visitors for its natural beauty and recreational offerings.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mt. Mansfield State Forest

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

Welcome to Mount Mansfield★ 8.5⌖ 1 miHiking
Mount Mansfield

Welcome to Mount Mansfield

Explore Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, offering diverse trails, stunning vistas, and winter sports. Perfect for hiking and skiing enthusiasts, this spot is busy in the summer with panoramic views and abundant adventure.

Hiking the Sunset Ridge Trail in Stowe★ 8.2⌖ 1 miHiking
Sunset Ridge Trail

Hiking the Sunset Ridge Trail in Stowe

Explore the 2.6-mile Sunset Ridge Trail to Vermont's highest peak near Stowe. Known for its moderate difficulty, this trail offers stunning views, particularly during sunrise and sunset. It's a favorite among hiking enthusiasts, with the best hiking seasons being spring and fall.

Camping at Smugglers' Notch State Park in Stowe★ 7.5⌖ 2 miCamping
Stowe

Camping at Smugglers' Notch State Park in Stowe

Explore camping at Smugglers' Notch State Park in Stowe, VT. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching in a scenic environment. Ideal to visit from late spring to early fall, offering relaxation and adventure alike.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The summit of Mt. Mansfield, the highest point in Vermont, offering extraordinary views.✦ Rare alpine tundra ecosystem home to unique plant species.✦ Stowe Mountain Resort within the forest providing ski and snowboard opportunities.✦ The Long Trail, a historic hiking path traversing the length of Vermont.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mt. Mansfield State Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mt. Mansfield State Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Mt. Mansfield State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mt. Mansfield State Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Mt. Mansfield State Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Mt. Mansfield State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mt. Mansfield 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 Mt. Mansfield State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entry fees for forest access; some activities may require fees.

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).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Mt. Mansfield State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Underhill State Park Campground

Located at the foot of Mt. Mansfield with hike-in tent sites and lean-tos.

Smugglers’ Notch State Park Campground

Offers drive-in tent/RV sites, nearby hiking trails, and proximity to Smugglers' Notch.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Mt. Mansfield State Forest

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

Stowe
⌖ 7.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Stowe, Vermont

A picturesque New England town with a vibrant outdoor scene, perfect for exploring the forests and mountains of the Green Mountain State.

Fall and WinterExplore Town
Jeffersonville
⌖ 7.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jeffersonville, Vermont

A quaint New England town known for its proximity to rugged terrains and outdoor escapades perfect for all seasons.

Noyan
⌖ 8.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Noyan, Vermont

A peaceful rural town on the Canadian border offering quiet outdoor escapes and access to scenic waterways and rolling countryside perfect for nature lovers.

Late spring through early fall for paddling, biking, and hiking; winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Jericho
⌖ 9.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jericho, Vermont

A peaceful Vermont town offering scenic forests, rolling hills, and year-round outdoor activities with easy access to the Green Mountains.

Late Spring to Early Fall and WinterExplore Town
Johnson
⌖ 9.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Johnson, Vermont

A peaceful rural village offering authentic Vermont outdoor adventures with forest trails, river paddling, and winter sports in a serene setting.

Spring through Fall, with winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Morrisville
⌖ 10.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Morrisville, Vermont

A vibrant small town in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains offering diverse year-round outdoor adventures from mountain biking to skiing.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mt. Mansfield State Forest

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

12 bookable experiences

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