THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest wilderness guide
State Park · VT

Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest

A dramatic mountain pass in Vermont's Green Mountains, Smugglers' Notch State Park is renowned for its narrow, cliff-lined roads and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.

State Park1,000+4+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,000+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest

A dramatic mountain pass in Vermont's Green Mountains, Smugglers' Notch State Park is renowned for its narrow, cliff-lined roads and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located within the Green Mountain National Forest, Smugglers' Notch State Park offers stunning natural beauty, with towering cliffs and dense forests. The notch was historically used for illegal trade and smuggling, giving the area its intriguing name. Today, visitors come to explore its rich ecology, including diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking geological formations. Popular activities include hiking on the scenic Long Trail, rock climbing on sheer cliffs, and enjoying scenic drives through the narrow, winding roads of the notch. The park is ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in Vermont's natural landscape.

Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National 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.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Long Trail – Vermont's iconic hiking trail crosses through the notch offering spectacular vistas.✦ Rare alpine tundra ecosystems – Home to unique plant species adapted to harsh conditions.✦ Lake of the Clouds – A serene spot perfect for reflection and nature viewing.✦ Smugglers' Cave – A hidden cave with historical significance related to the area's smuggling past.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National 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 Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fee required for day use, but campsites require reservations.

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 Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest

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

Smugglers' Notch Campground

Located in the heart of the notch offering tent sites and lean-tos, ideal for families.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National Forest

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

Jeffersonville
⌖ 7.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jeffersonville, Vermont

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

Stowe
⌖ 7.73 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
Noyan
⌖ 7.81 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
Johnson
⌖ 9.25 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
Jericho
⌖ 9.67 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
Morrisville
⌖ 10.47 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 Smugglers' Notch State Park, Green Mountain National 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.