List of National Parks in Vermont

Vermont has 1 national park: Marsh – Billings – Rockefeller National Historical Park

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, located in Woodstock, Vermont, is a testament to American conservation and the nation’s first National Park focused on land stewardship. This park preserves the legacy of three influential conservationists: George Perkins Marsh, Frederick Billings, and Laurance Rockefeller. Their work and vision shaped American environmental thought, making this park a symbol of the nation’s dedication to protecting its landscapes.

How to Get to Marsh – Billings – Rockefeller National Historical Park

The park is situated in Woodstock, a charming New England town accessible by car from many major cities in the region. Here are a few transportation options:

By Car: The park is about 2 hours from Boston and 4 hours from New York City. From the north, it can be reached by following Route 89 South, and from the south by taking Route 91 North.
By Plane: The nearest airport is Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB), about 30 minutes away, while Burlington International Airport is roughly a 1.5-hour drive.
By Train or Bus: Amtrak has a station in White River Junction, which is around a 20-minute drive from Woodstock. Buses also run to White River Junction from several nearby cities, and local taxi or rideshare services can complete the journey to the park.

Things to Do at the Park

Guided Tours of the Mansion: Join a ranger-led tour to explore the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mansion, where you’ll learn about the conservation efforts of the families who lived there. Tours cover both the architectural beauty of the mansion and the legacy of sustainable land management.
Hiking and Walking Trails: The park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, from easy strolls to moderate hikes, providing beautiful views of the surrounding forest, hills, and Mount Tom. The Pogue, a man-made pond, is a favorite stop along the trails.
Art Galleries and Conservation Exhibits: Within the mansion and visitor center, exhibitions showcase art and artifacts related to the conservation movement, allowing visitors to see historical documents, photos, and paintings that reflect the park’s heritage.
Junior Ranger Programs: This is a fantastic activity for children, where they can complete activities related to nature and conservation to earn a Junior Ranger badge. The program educates young visitors about sustainable practices in a fun and interactive way.
Photography and Picnicking: The park’s scenic views make it a popular spot for photography, especially during fall when the trees are ablaze with vibrant autumn colors. Several picnic spots are available, making it a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Weather and the Best Time to Visit

The park experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Each season offers unique charms, but most visitors prefer to visit in spring, summer, or fall when the park is most accessible.

Spring (March to May): Temperatures range from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). Spring is a beautiful time to visit as the park’s flora begins to bloom, and the weather is mild.
Summer (June to August): Temperatures are warm, ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). Summer is popular for hiking and exploring the trails, as the park is fully accessible with comfortable weather.
Fall (September to November): Fall is one of the most popular seasons due to the stunning fall foliage. Temperatures cool to 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C), making it ideal for photography and nature walks.
Winter (December to February): Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to 10°F to 30°F (-12°C to -1°C). While the park remains open, some areas may be less accessible. However, winter offers beautiful, snow-covered landscapes and opportunities for snowshoeing.