Smugglers' Notch State Park
A breathtaking mountain pass in Vermont's Green Mountains, offering scenic drives, hiking, camping, and rock climbing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak foliage, crisp air
Smugglers' Notch State Park
Best Time
Peak foliage, crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking mountain pass in Vermont's Green Mountains, offering scenic drives, hiking, camping, and rock climbing.
"The drive through Smugglers' Notch is absolutely spectacular, a true highlight of Vermont!"
🚗 Notch Road Access
Route 108 is closed to vehicles over 20ft Nov-May. Check seasonal closures before you go!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Secure all food and coolers in your car. Bears are active and curious!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Notch Road Drive
Route 108
Experience a breathtaking, winding mountain pass with stunning views and challenging curves. A must-do scenic drive!
Hiking Trails
Various trailheads
Explore diverse trails from easy strolls to challenging climbs, offering incredible vistas and a true wilderness feel.
Rock Climbing Opportunities
Various rock faces
Challenge yourself on the park's granite cliffs, a popular spot for experienced climbers seeking adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Smugglers' Notch
Bear Awareness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Notch Road Access
Route 108 is closed to vehicles over 20ft Nov-May. Check seasonal closures before you go!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Secure all food and coolers in your car. Bears are active and curious!
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Get your maps ready beforehand.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rugged. Comfortable hiking boots are essential for exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Notch Road Access
Route 108 is closed to vehicles over 20ft Nov-May. Check seasonal closures before you go!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Secure all food and coolers in your car. Bears are active and curious!
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Get your maps ready beforehand.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rugged. Comfortable hiking boots are essential for exploring.
📸 Capture the Views
The fall foliage is spectacular! Don't forget your camera.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Smugglers' Notch State Park for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the scenic drive and well-maintained campground. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for outdoor activities. However, some campers report negative interactions with park rangers, and the prevalence of bears requires constant vigilance.
"Great spot and we'll maintained campground! Went early September and weather was nice and crisp, and staff were helpful! There were signs of bears active, and sure enough a bear was about 50 feet from our site, called the ranger and they came by quickly to scare it off. Overall wonderful experience with nature!"
Sasha Liang
"Loved this! Convenient and comfortable! Great campground! Clean bathrooms and showers (paid) ! Site was private enough, we had no neighbors. Some bear on site but everything was fine. The staff were well informed and easy to reach after hours."
Kinza Ahmed
"Wonderful, clean and quiet campground. level and roomy sites. Nice staff that communicated well. We had no issue as others have noted about patrols. I do believe some people or paranoid or possibly believe the whole world revolves around them. If you are looking for a clean, quiet and comfotable campground-this is it."
Stacy Hughes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible via Route 108. If flying into Burlington, renting a car is recommended for flexibility, as Ubers/Lyfts may be limited in this rural area.
The main scenic drive through the Notch (Route 108) is closed to vehicles over 20 feet from November to May due to winter conditions. The campground also has seasonal operating hours.
While possible to reach via ride-sharing from Burlington, getting around within the park and to nearby attractions without a car can be challenging due to the rural nature of the area.
Route 108 is a narrow, winding mountain road with steep grades and sharp curves. It's best suited for experienced drivers and is not recommended for large RVs or trailers when open.
There is no direct public transportation to Smugglers' Notch State Park. Visitors typically rely on personal vehicles or rental cars.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Day use of the park typically requires a state park vehicle entrance fee. Campground stays have separate nightly rates.
Camping fees vary by site type and season. It's best to check the official Vermont State Parks website for current pricing and reservation information.
Yes, advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (summer and fall foliage). You can usually book through the Vermont State Parks reservation system.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk for day use. The campground has specific check-in and check-out times. The scenic road has seasonal closures.
Information on discounts, such as for Vermont residents or multi-day passes, is usually available on the Vermont State Parks website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include scenic driving, hiking, rock climbing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park offers a true nature immersion experience.
Yes, there are various trails. While some are challenging, others offer more moderate terrain suitable for those looking for a less strenuous hike.
Families can enjoy the scenic drive and accessible trails. However, the rugged terrain and bear activity require constant supervision.
Black bears are common, so be bear-aware. You might also spot deer, various bird species, and other small forest animals.
The campground offers restrooms and paid shower facilities. Day-use areas may have basic restroom facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Pull-offs along the Notch Road offer stunning mountain vistas. Hiking trails also provide incredible scenic overlooks, especially during fall foliage.
Early morning and late afternoon light (golden hour) provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check the official park regulations before flying.
Fall is incredibly popular for its vibrant foliage, but summer offers lush green landscapes and clear blue skies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the summer months for pleasant weather. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for limited cell service. The campground can be a fun experience for families, offering a chance to be immersed in nature, but always supervise children closely, especially around wildlife.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Be aware that cell service is spotty, so download offline maps and navigation. Take your time, stop at the numerous pull-offs to capture photos, and enjoy the journey. The road is best experienced during the day when visibility is optimal.
🏕️ Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Notch Road
This road was historically used by smugglers to move goods illicitly, hence its name. Today, it's a popular route for cyclists and motorcyclists, as well as car enthusiasts who appreciate its unique engineering and natural beauty. Be prepared for slow speeds and keep an eye out for hikers and cyclists sharing the road. Downloading offline maps is crucial as cell service is unreliable.
Driving Tips for the Notch
* Check Seasonal Closures: Always verify the road's open status before your visit.
* Drive Slowly and Cautiously: The road is narrow and winding.
* Be Aware of Other Users: Share the road respectfully with cyclists and pedestrians.
* No Large Vehicles: RVs and trailers over 20 feet are prohibited when the road is open.
Camping and Wildlife Encounters
However, a significant aspect of camping here is the presence of black bears. Multiple reviews and social media posts highlight frequent bear sightings, sometimes very close to campsites. While rangers are responsive to issues, it's crucial for campers to practice strict bear safety protocols. This includes storing all food, coolers, and scented items securely in bear-proof containers or vehicles, and keeping a clean campsite.
Essential Camping Advice:
* Secure Your Food: Never leave food unattended.
* Keep a Tidy Site: Dispose of trash properly and promptly.
* Leash Your Pets: Keep dogs under control at all times.
* Report Sightings: Inform rangers of any concerning bear activity.
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
The park is also a renowned destination for rock climbing. Its granite cliffs offer challenging routes for experienced climbers. Whether you're looking for a vigorous hike or a thrilling climb, Smugglers' Notch provides ample opportunities to connect with nature and push your limits.
Hiking & Climbing Tips:
* Wear appropriate footwear: Sturdy hiking boots are recommended.
* Carry water and snacks: Stay hydrated and fueled on longer treks.
* Check trail conditions: Some trails can be steep or rocky.
* Climbers should be experienced: Ensure you have the necessary skills and gear.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit