Imagine a place where the mountains kiss the sky, the water sparkles like diamonds, and the only sound is the whisper of the wind through the trees.
Welcome to Vermont’s best-kept secret: Branbury State Park.
Nestled in the heart of Salisbury, Branbury State Park is the hidden gem you’ve been searching for all your life.
It’s like finding a $20 bill in your winter coat pocket, but instead of cash, you’re getting 69 acres of pure, unadulterated natural beauty.
Now, I know what you’re thinking.
“Another state park? I’ve seen one, I’ve seen them all.”
But hold onto your hiking boots, folks, because Branbury is about to blow your mind faster than a maple syrup-chugging contest at the Vermont State Fair.
First things first, let’s talk about the star of the show: Lake Dunmore.
This isn’t just any old body of water; it’s 985 acres of crystal-clear, fish-filled paradise.
It’s so pristine that you’ll swear someone snuck in overnight and replaced the lake with a giant mirror.
The beach at Branbury is like nature’s own sandbox but without the risk of finding your neighbor’s cat’s little “surprises.”
The sand is soft, the water is cool, and the views are so breathtaking, you’ll wonder if you’ve accidentally stumbled onto a movie set.
And let’s not forget about the mountains.
Oh, the mountains!
They stand tall and proud, like they’re posing for their LinkedIn profile pictures.
The Green Mountain National Forest surrounds the park, creating a backdrop so picturesque, it’ll make your Instagram followers weep with envy.
But Branbury isn’t just about looking pretty (although it does that exceptionally well).
This park is an all-you-can-eat buffet of outdoor activities, minus the risk of food poisoning.
Let’s start with hiking.
The trails here are like nature’s own treadmill, but instead of staring at a sweaty guy named Chad, you’re surrounded by towering trees and chirping birds.
The Moosalamoo National Recreation Area is right next door, offering miles of trails that’ll make your Fitbit do a happy dance.
From easy strolls to challenging climbs, there’s a trail for every level of hiker, from “I climb mountains before breakfast” to “I consider walking to the fridge exercise.”
If you’re more of a water baby, Lake Dunmore is your playground.
Grab a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and explore the lake’s nooks and crannies.
It’s like a real-life game of “Where’s Waldo?” but instead of finding a guy in a striped shirt, you’re discovering hidden coves and secret beaches.
And trust me, this lake is more refreshing than a mint julep on a hot summer day.
The water’s so clear that you might catch yourself wondering if you’ve accidentally stumbled into a giant bottle of Evian.
Paddling around Lake Dunmore is like getting a front-row seat to nature’s greatest hits album.
You’ve got towering pines on the shore doing their best impression of a green-haired rock band, mountains in the background looking like they’re trying to touch the clouds, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a bald eagle doing its best impression of a feathered fighter jet.
Just remember, unlike your bathtub at home, this lake comes with its own live soundtrack of lapping waves and birdsong.
No rubber ducky required!
Fishing enthusiasts, prepare to enter nirvana.
Lake Dunmore is teeming with fish, including bass, perch, and trout.
It’s like an all-you-can-catch buffet, minus the weird jello salads.
Just remember, folks, a Vermont fishing license is required.
Don’t be that guy who tries to sweet-talk the game warden with a “But officer, I thought the fish were free-range!”
Now, let’s talk about camping.
Branbury offers 20 tent sites and 7 lean-to sites, each one a little slice of wilderness heaven.
It’s like having your own private forest but without the risk of getting lost and having to survive on berries and twigs.
The campsites are spacious, clean, and come with a fire ring and picnic table.
It’s like glamping, but without the ridiculous price tag and the fear of ruining your designer hiking boots.
And here’s the best part – you’re not just camping, you’re becoming one with nature.
Wake up to the sound of birds chirping their morning gossip, rather than your neighbor’s lawnmower.
Breathe in air so fresh, it makes city air feel like you’ve been huffing car exhaust.
At night, the stars put on a show that makes Broadway look like a school play.
It’s like Mother Nature’s own planetarium, minus the uncomfortable seats and that one kid who always asks too many questions.
Just remember, the local wildlife isn’t room service – that rustling outside your tent is probably a raccoon, not a waiter with your midnight snack.
And for those who prefer their nature with a side of modern amenities, there are coin-operated hot showers available.
Nothing says “roughing it” like being able to wash off the day’s adventures with hot water you paid for with quarters.
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But wait, there’s more!
Branbury State Park isn’t just a summer destination.
Oh no, this place is a year-round wonderland.
In the fall, the park transforms into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows.
It’s like Mother Nature decided to throw a confetti party, and you’re invited.
The foliage here is so spectacular, it’ll make you want to hug a tree (just make sure no one’s watching first).
Winter brings its own kind of magic to Branbury.
The lake freezes over, creating a natural ice rink that would make even the most jaded Canadian jealous.
Strap on some ice skates and pretend you’re in the Winter Olympics, minus the pressure of millions of people watching you potentially face-plant on international television.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities here.
It’s like regular walking, but with fancy footwear and a higher chance of accidentally doing the splits.
Spring brings a burst of new life to the park.
Wildflowers pop up like nature’s own fireworks display, and the air is filled with the sound of birds who’ve clearly had one too many cups of coffee.
But let’s be real, folks.
The true magic of Branbury State Park isn’t just in its natural beauty or the activities it offers.
It’s in the moments of peace and tranquility you’ll find here.
Picture this: You’re sitting on the beach as the sun sets, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange that would make even Bob Ross jealous.
The only sound is the gentle lapping of waves against the shore and the distant call of a loon.
At that moment, you’ll feel a sense of calm wash over you.
It’s like your brain has hit the reset button, clearing away the stress and worries of everyday life faster than you can say “Where’s the Wi-Fi?”
And that, my friends, is the true gift of Branbury State Park.
It’s a place where you can disconnect from the chaos of the world and reconnect with nature, yourself, and the people you’re with.
Now, I know what you’re thinking.
“This sounds too good to be true. What’s the catch?”
Well, prepare to be shocked, because there isn’t one.
Unless you count the possibility of becoming so enamored with Branbury that you consider quitting your job and becoming a full-time park ranger.
The park is open from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day, giving you plenty of time to plan your escape to this slice of Vermont paradise.
And with the wallet-friendly day-use fees, it’s cheaper than a fancy coffee and infinitely more refreshing.
Camping fees are equally reasonable, depending on whether you’re pitching a tent or living it up in a lean-to.
It’s like paying for a five-star hotel room, but instead of a mint on your pillow, you get a sky full of stars and the soothing sounds of nature.
But here’s the kicker, folks.
Despite all its awesomeness, Branbury State Park remains one of Vermont’s best-kept secrets.
It’s like finding out your quiet neighbor is actually a superhero, but instead of fighting crime, they’re providing an oasis of natural beauty and tranquility.
So why is it so unknown?
Well, maybe it’s because Vermonters are too busy enjoying it to brag about it.
Or maybe they’re worried that if word gets out, they’ll have to share their slice of paradise with the rest of us.
But fear not, dear reader.
Even if the secret of Branbury does get out, the park is big enough to accommodate everyone without losing its charm.
So what are you waiting for?
Pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and head to Branbury State Park.
Just remember to leave no trace, respect the wildlife, and for the love of all that is holy, don’t feed the bears.
They’re on a strict diet of berries and fish, and they don’t need your trail mix messing up their nutrition plan.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or just someone who needs a break from the daily grind, Branbury State Park has something for you.
It’s the perfect place to create memories, challenge yourself, or simply sit back and marvel at the beauty of the natural world.
So go ahead, make Branbury your next destination.
Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Dunmore, hike the scenic trails, roast marshmallows under the stars, and rediscover the joy of simply being in nature.
Just don’t blame me if you find yourself reluctant to leave when it’s time to go home.
Branbury has a way of stealing your heart faster than a squirrel with a bag of nuts.
For more information about Branbury State Park, including current conditions and reservation details, visit this website.
And don’t forget to use this map to plan your journey to this hidden gem.
Where: 3570 Lake Dunmore Rd, Salisbury, VT 05769
Remember, in Branbury State Park, every day is a good day to have a good day.
So what are you waiting for?
Adventure awaits!