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Victory State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · VT

Victory State Forest

Victory State Forest in Vermont offers a serene retreat into nature with its expansive woodlands, providing visitors with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and peaceful solitude.

State Forest14,000+4+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

14,000+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Victory State Forest

Victory State Forest in Vermont offers a serene retreat into nature with its expansive woodlands, providing visitors with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and peaceful solitude.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Victory State Forest is situated in the northeast region of Vermont, within Essex County, covering over 14,000 acres of natural beauty. This forest is characterized by its rugged terrain, dense woodlands, and serene atmosphere, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest is home to a diverse range of species, including moose, deer, and various bird species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation. The area's history is rich, with the land having been used for logging and other early industrial activities before its establishment as a state forest. Recreation options abound, with miles of trails accessible for hiking, mountain biking, and during winter, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Notable landmarks include the scenic views from Bald Mountain and the peaceful surroundings of the West Mountain WMA. Visitors are drawn to Victory State Forest for its tranquility and the unique opportunity to experience Vermont's natural landscapes away from more crowded destinations.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Victory State Forest

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

Nature's Scenic Retreat at Willoughby State Forest★ 7.8⌖ 11 miHiking
Willoughby State Forest

Nature's Scenic Retreat at Willoughby State Forest

Explore Willoughby State Forest near Sutton, Vermont, featuring moderate hiking trails with scenic lake and cliff views. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and wildlife watching in a quiet, rugged setting best visited from late spring through early fall.

Tranquil Beauty at Lake Willoughby★ 7.8⌖ 13 miKayaking
Lake Willoughby

Tranquil Beauty at Lake Willoughby

Explore Lake Willoughby in Westmore, VT, a serene haven ideal for kayaking and swimming. Enjoy hiking trails with vistas of dramatic cliffs. Best visited in summer with opportunities for photographers to capture its tranquil beauty.

Discover the Mystery of Peacham Bog★ 7.4⌖ 30 miHiking
Peacham Bog

Discover the Mystery of Peacham Bog

Explore the 4.5-mile loop trail at Peacham Bog in Peacham, VT. This moderately challenging hike offers a peaceful experience with opportunities for birding and nature photography. Ideal in summer, it’s quiet year-round and showcases diverse plant and animal life.

Discover Dixville Notch★ 7.2⌖ 32 miHiking
Dixville Notch

Discover Dixville Notch

Explore Dixville Notch, NH, known for its rugged landscape and stunning rock formations. Hike to Table Rock for panoramic White Mountain views. Expect a hard trail with wildlife sightings. Fall is best for colorful vistas.

Fishing in Lake Eden, Stowe★ 7.5⌖ 32 miFishing
5918-5922 Vermont Rte 100

Fishing in Lake Eden, Stowe

Enjoy fishing at Lake Eden, a quiet spot just 30 minutes from Stowe. Known for its variety of fish, including trout and bass, this lake features easy access and is beginner-friendly. Visit in spring or late summer for the best experience.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Bald Mountain provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.✦ Home to diverse wildlife, providing rewarding birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities.✦ West Mountain WMA offers unique insights into Vermont's remote wilderness.✦ The forest's quietude makes for an excellent backdrop for meditation and relaxation.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Victory State Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Victory State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Victory State Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Victory State Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Victory State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Victory 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 Victory State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access to the forest, no permits required for general use.

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 Victory State Forest

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

Burke
⌖ 4.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burke, Vermont

A classic Vermont outdoor destination offering rugged mountain terrain, pristine lakes, and all-season recreation for active travelers seeking nature-based adventure.

Spring through WinterExplore Town
Sutton
⌖ 8.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sutton, Vermont

A quiet rural town offering peaceful outdoor recreation surrounded by Vermont’s lush forests and rolling hills.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing and snowshoeingExplore Town
Lyndonville
⌖ 10.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lyndonville, Vermont

A charming Vermont town offering easy access to the Northeast Kingdom’s forests, rivers, and hills, perfect for a mix of quiet outdoor pursuits and seasonal adventures.

Late Spring to Early Fall and WinterExplore Town
Brighton
⌖ 10.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brighton, Vermont

A tranquil rural mountain town offering serene outdoor adventures with a focus on paddling, hiking, and winter snow sports in the Northeast Kingdom.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Lyndon
⌖ 11.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lyndon, Vermont

A scenic Vermont town offering four-season outdoor activities centered on forested trails, rivers, and nearby ski areas.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowboardingExplore Town
Island Pond
⌖ 11.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Island Pond, Vermont

A historic Vermont village offering peaceful lakeside recreation, forested trails, and classic New England outdoor adventures year-round.

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

Guided Experiences in Victory 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.