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Emerald Lake State Park wilderness guide
State Park · VT

Emerald Lake State Park

Emerald Lake State Park in Vermont offers a serene retreat with opportunities for camping and a variety of outdoor activities around its central feature, the picturesque Emerald Lake.

State Park4303+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

430

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Emerald Lake State Park

Emerald Lake State Park in Vermont offers a serene retreat with opportunities for camping and a variety of outdoor activities around its central feature, the picturesque Emerald Lake.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Emerald Lake State Park, located in the heart of Vermont, is a scenic destination that spans approximately 430 acres. It is centered around Emerald Lake, a pristine body of water that provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing. The park is enveloped by lush, forested hills, providing a tranquil environment perfect for nature enthusiasts. Historically, the area was once the site of the Dorset Marble Company, and remnants of the marble quarrying operations are still visible today. Hiking is a popular activity here, with trails that offer rewarding views of the surrounding Taconic Mountains. Wildlife is abundant, and visitors often spot deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The park is particularly popular for family camping, offering well-maintained campgrounds with essential amenities. In addition to its natural appeal, the park's accessibility from nearby towns makes it a cherished spot for local residents and travelers seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Emerald Lake State Park

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

Discover Dorset Marble Quarry★ 6.8⌖ 8 miSwimming
Dorset Marble Quarry

Discover Dorset Marble Quarry

Visit the historic Dorset Marble Quarry in Dorset, VT. This swimming hole, surrounded by marble walls, offers an easy and refreshing escape. Ideal for picnicking and photography, it's popular in summer, providing a serene ambiance for visitors.

Rediscover Nature's Power at Clarendon Gorge★ 8.5⌖ 13 miHiking
Clarendon Gorge

Rediscover Nature's Power at Clarendon Gorge

Explore the stunning Clarendon Gorge near Shrewsbury, VT. Known for hiking, swimming, and historical significance, it's ideal for adventure seekers from late spring to early autumn. Be cautious of fast water flows while enjoying the scenery.

Mountain Majesty: Equinox Mountain★ 6.5⌖ 13 miHiking
Equinox Mountain

Mountain Majesty: Equinox Mountain

Explore Equinox Mountain, the tallest peak in the Taconic Range in Vermont. This challenging 6.6-mile hike offers stunning summit views and opportunities for bird watching. Visit in late spring to early fall for the best experience.

Lye Brook Falls: A Vermont Gem★ 6.8⌖ 15 miHiking
Lye Brook Falls

Lye Brook Falls: A Vermont Gem

Lye Brook Falls is a hiking destination near Manchester, Vermont. The 4.6-mile moderate hike offers scenic views of one of Vermont's tallest waterfalls. Ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts looking to observe the local wildlife.

Cascading Beauty: Buttermilk Falls Road★ 7.0⌖ 16 miSightseeing
Buttermilk Falls Road

Cascading Beauty: Buttermilk Falls Road

Explore Buttermilk Falls Road in Vermont for serene views and gentle cascades. Visitors can enjoy easy hiking, swimming in natural pools, and picturesque picnic spots. It's a quiet family-friendly retreat with beautiful vistas.

SightseeingView Details→
Stratton Lookout Tower: A Vermont Treasure★ 8.3⌖ 18 miViewing Scenery
Stratton Lookout Tower

Stratton Lookout Tower: A Vermont Treasure

Explore Stratton Lookout Tower in Vermont’s Green Mountains. This moderate hike offers stunning views and is best from late September to mid-October. Enjoy hiking, foliage viewing, and tranquility. Suitable for photographers and landscape enthusiasts.

Viewing SceneryView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Emerald Lake itself, a stunning centerpiece for water activities✦ The historical remnants of the Dorset Marble Quarry✦ Scenic hiking trails with views of the Taconic Mountains✦ Peaceful campgrounds ideal for family camping
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Emerald Lake State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Emerald Lake State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use fee required, payable at the park entrance.

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 Emerald Lake State Park

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

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Emerald Lake State Park

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

Dorset
⌖ 7.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dorset, Vermont

A charming town offering unique access to the Green Mountains with a perfect mix of outdoor activities and quintessential New England charm.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Tinmouth
⌖ 7.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tinmouth, Vermont

A quiet rural town offering peaceful outdoor experiences amid Vermont’s Green Mountains, ideal for nature lovers seeking low-impact adventure.

Late Spring through Fall; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Landgrove
⌖ 10.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Landgrove, Vermont

A quiet, forested town offering peaceful outdoor adventures with classic Vermont charm and access to nearby ski resorts and hiking trails.

Fall and WinterExplore Town
Middletown Springs
⌖ 11.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Middletown Springs, Vermont

A quiet rural town offering peaceful outdoor recreation with scenic trails, lakes, and nearby forests, perfect for nature lovers seeking a low-key Vermont experience.

Spring through Fall, with winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Weston
⌖ 11.97 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Weston, Vermont

A charming rural town known for its peaceful mountain scenery, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking classic Vermont adventures in hiking, skiing, and paddling.

Fall and WinterExplore Town
Mount Holly
⌖ 12.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mount Holly, Vermont

A peaceful rural Vermont town offering scenic forested landscapes and outdoor activities across all seasons, ideal for travelers seeking nature and quiet adventure.

Late Spring to Fall for hiking, biking, and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowshoeingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Emerald Lake State Park

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.