Before you plan a trip into the wilderness, ask yourself if you really want a wilderness experience. Although the Green Mountains are served by many resort areas with amenities for recreationists, wilderness areas on the National Forest are preserved in a natural state.   What this means is that there are no roads, electricity, telephones (cell phones may not work), running water, trash cans, restrooms, or other such amenities offered in the more developed campgrounds and picnic areas throughout the forest.

The "wilderness experience" should include the spirit of challenge, discovery and self-reliance. Therefore, the areas are not managed for visitor comfort and convenience. Be prepared to meet obstacles:

• Trail brushing and trail blazing may be limited. Bristol Cliffs and the Aiken have no designated trails.
• Trees may obstruct the trail.
• There are few, if any, bridges. You may have to ford streams.
• Signs are infrequent and do not provide mileage information. Carry a map, compass, and guidebook.
• Mechanized and motorized vehicle, such as bicycles, ATVs and hang gliders are prohibited.
• Rescues may take longer in primitive conditions.

For important travel tips, please click here. Also, please see http://www.wilderness.net/ for more wilderness information.

If a wilderness experience isn't for you:

There are other recreational opportunities available within the Green Mountain National Forest. Consider these:

• Primitive Camping: This opportunity is not as "outback, wild, and wooly" as wilderness, but very rustic and off the beaten track. Primitive camping areas have been identified or pitch your tent wherever allowed on Forest lands. Campfires are acceptable however Leave No Trace practices are strongly encouraged.
• Developed Camping: These campgrounds have campsites set aside for the convenience of campers who want a semi-primitive experience with minimal toilet facilities and fire rings.
• Picnic Areas: There are nine picnic areas.
• Maintained Trails: There are approximately 900 miles of hiking trails, including the Appalachian/Long Trail (AT/LT).
• Boating: Several boating opportunities exist with access provided.
• Snowmobile Trails: A winter trails system covers a large portion of the entire State of Vermont.

Take me to the wilderness maps