Forget the tourist traps!
Vermont’s hidden gems are calling, and they’re serving up a feast for the senses that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
Ready to explore the road less traveled?
Let’s dive into Vermont’s best-kept secrets!
1. Branbury State Park (Salisbury)
Nestled at the foot of the Green Mountains, Branbury State Park is like that quiet kid in class who turns out to be a secret genius.
The park’s crown jewel is Lake Dunmore, a crystal-clear body of water that’s so pristine, you might think you’ve stumbled into a Bob Ross painting.
The beach here is a slice of paradise that’ll make you forget you’re in Vermont and not some tropical getaway.
It’s the perfect spot to work on your tan while pretending you’re actually working on your laptop.
Just don’t blame me when your boss asks why your “important document” is covered in sand.
For the more adventurous souls, there’s a network of hiking trails that’ll lead you through forests so lush, you’ll half expect to see a hobbit pop out from behind a tree.
And if you’re feeling really brave, you can rent a canoe and paddle your way across the lake.
Just remember, capsizing is only funny when it happens to someone else.
2. Alburg Dunes State Park (Alburg)
If you’ve ever dreamed of frolicking on a beach without the hassle of, you know, leaving Vermont, then Alburg Dunes State Park is your ticket to paradise.
This hidden gem boasts the longest natural sand beach on Lake Champlain, stretching for nearly a mile.
It’s like nature’s own version of a red carpet, except instead of paparazzi, you’ll find seagulls trying to steal your sandwich.
The dunes here are a geological wonder, formed by wind and waves over thousands of years.
It’s like Mother Nature’s been playing in a giant sandbox, and we get to reap the benefits.
Just remember, building a sand castle the size of an actual castle might be frowned upon by park rangers.
For bird enthusiasts, this park is a veritable feast for the eyes.
It’s a stopover for migratory birds, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself in an impromptu game of “Name That Bird.”
Just don’t expect the birds to play along – they’re notoriously bad at following rules.
3. Brighton State Park (Island Pond)
Tucked away in the Northeast Kingdom, Brighton State Park is the introvert of Vermont’s park system.
It’s quiet, unassuming, and absolutely stunning once you get to know it.
The park surrounds Spectacle Pond, a body of water so clear you can see fish swimming by as if they’re auditioning for their own nature documentary.
The campground here is a camper’s dream, with sites nestled among towering pines that provide shade and that quintessential forest aroma.
It’s like nature’s own air freshener, minus the artificial pine scent that makes your car smell like a Christmas tree lot.
For the water lovers, there’s swimming, boating, and fishing galore.
And if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on your perspective), you might even spot a moose taking a dip.
Just remember, if you see a moose, it’s best to admire from afar.
They’re not known for their social skills or their ability to pose for selfies.
4. Coolidge State Park (Plymouth)
Named after President Calvin Coolidge (because apparently, even presidents need parks named after them), this park offers views that are anything but silent.
Perched atop a high mountain meadow, Coolidge State Park serves up panoramic vistas of the Green Mountains that’ll make your jaw drop faster than a Vermont maple tree loses its leaves in fall.
The park’s camping area is a throwback to simpler times, with lean-to shelters that’ll make you feel like a pioneer.
Just don’t expect to update your Instagram story from here – cell service is about as rare as a warm day in January.
But hey, who needs Wi-Fi when you’ve got Wi-View, am I right?
For the history buffs, the nearby Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site is a must-visit.
It’s like stepping into a time machine, minus the flux capacitor and the risk of accidentally becoming your own grandfather.
5. Emerald Lake State Park (East Dorset)
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to swim in a giant emerald, wonder no more!
Emerald Lake State Park is nature’s answer to Tiffany’s, minus the hefty price tag and the judgmental looks from salespeople.
The lake’s striking green color comes from its shallow depth and the surrounding forest reflection.
It’s like Mother Nature decided to get creative with her color palette, and we’re all better for it.
Swimming here is a must, but fair warning: the water is so clear, you might forget you’re not actually flying.
For land lubbers, there are plenty of hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forest.
Just be prepared for some steep climbs – these trails don’t believe in taking the easy way out.
Think of it as nature’s StairMaster, with much better views and significantly less judgement from fellow gym-goers.
6. Green River Reservoir State Park (Hyde Park)
If you’re looking for a place to escape the chaos of modern life (or just hide from your in-laws), Green River Reservoir State Park is your ticket to tranquility.
This park is so remote, even your smartphone’s GPS might throw up its hands and say, “You’re on your own, buddy.”
The reservoir itself is a paddler’s paradise, with 19 miles of undeveloped shoreline.
It’s like stepping back in time to when Vermont was nothing but pristine wilderness and the occasional moose.
Just remember, the campsites here are boat-access only.
So if you forgot to pack the marshmallows, tough luck – there’s no convenience store around the corner.
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Wildlife viewing here is top-notch, with everything from loons to beavers calling this place home.
It’s like a real-life version of Animal Crossing, except you can’t build a house or pay off a mortgage to a capitalist raccoon.
7. Kettle Pond State Park (Groton)
Kettle Pond State Park is the dark horse of Vermont’s park system – unassuming at first glance, but packing a serious punch in the beauty department.
The pond itself was formed by retreating glaciers, which is a fancy way of saying that ice cubes the size of Manhattan decided to play architect.
The result is a pristine body of water surrounded by forests so dense, you half expect to see Little Red Riding Hood skipping by.
The remote campsites here are perfect for those who like their nature with a side of solitude.
Just be prepared for a bit of a hike to reach them – these campsites play hard to get.
Canoeing on Kettle Pond is a must-do activity, offering views that’ll make you forget all about your Instagram feed.
Who needs filters when you’ve got nature doing all the heavy lifting?
8. Molly Stark State Park (Wilmington)
Named after the wife of General John Stark (because behind every great general is a woman wondering why he can’t pick up his socks), Molly Stark State Park is a testament to Vermont’s revolutionary spirit.
And by revolutionary, I mean it’ll revolutionize your idea of what a state park can be.
The park’s main attraction is the fire tower atop Mt. Olga, offering 360-degree views that’ll make you feel like you’re on top of the world.
Or at least on top of southern Vermont, which is close enough.
Just remember, the climb up is not for the faint of heart or the out of shape.
Consider it nature’s way of making you earn that view.
For history buffs, the park is located along the Molly Stark Trail, a scenic byway named after our gal Molly.
It’s like a history lesson and a road trip rolled into one, minus the boring textbooks and the “are we there yet?” whining.
9. Mt. Ascutney State Park (Windsor)
Mt. Ascutney State Park is the overachiever of Vermont’s park system.
Not content with just being a beautiful natural area, it had to go and become a recreational wonderland too.
Show-off.
The mountain itself is a monadnock, which is a fancy geological term for “lonely mountain.”
But don’t let that fool you – there’s nothing lonely about the experience here.
With four trails to the summit, you can choose your own adventure.
Just remember, whichever trail you pick, the mountain will remind you that gravity is not just a good idea, it’s the law.
For those who prefer their adventures with wheels, there’s a 3.7-mile auto road to the summit.
It’s like nature’s own drive-thru, except instead of a burger and fries, you get breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
10. Ricker Pond State Park (Groton)
Ricker Pond State Park is like that friend who’s always up for a good time, no matter the season.
In summer, it’s all about swimming, fishing, and boating on the pond.
In winter, it transforms into a snowy playground for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
It’s like the park has multiple personality disorder, but in the best possible way.
The campground here is a camper’s dream, with sites that offer views of the pond that’ll make you want to write poetry.
Even if you’ve never written a poem in your life, you might find yourself suddenly spouting verses about the beauty of nature.
Don’t worry, we won’t judge.
For history enthusiasts, the park is part of Groton State Forest, which was shaped by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
It’s like stepping into a living museum, minus the “please don’t touch” signs and the overpriced gift shop.
11. Wilgus State Park (Weathersfield)
Nestled along the Connecticut River, Wilgus State Park is the perfect spot for those who like their nature with a side of lazy river vibes.
It’s like the park equivalent of a Sunday afternoon – relaxed, easy-going, and perfect for napping.
The park’s main draw is its access to the Connecticut River, making it a haven for canoeists and kayakers.
Just remember, if you decide to take a dip, the current is stronger than it looks.
It’s like that friend who seems chill but can drink everyone under the table.
For those who prefer terra firma, there are plenty of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the river valley.
It’s like Mother Nature’s own IMAX theater, except you don’t have to pay $15 for popcorn.
12. Woodford State Park (Woodford)
Perched at an elevation of 2,400 feet, Woodford State Park is like the cool kid who lives in the penthouse.
It’s Vermont’s highest elevation campground, which means you’re practically camping in the clouds.
Just don’t expect to order room service.
The park’s centerpiece is Adams Reservoir, a body of water so serene it could probably teach meditation classes.
It’s perfect for swimming, fishing, or just floating around pretending you’re in a shampoo commercial.
For the hikers, there are trails that wind through a boreal forest, which is a fancy way of saying “really northern woods.”
Keep an eye out for moose, but remember – they’re not known for their social skills or their ability to say “cheese” for photos.
So there you have it, folks – twelve parks that prove Vermont is more than just maple syrup and Bernie Sanders.
Now get out there and explore!
Your Instagram feed (and your soul) will thank you.