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Out and About in Southern Vermont's State Parks By Jon Wood
Molly Stark State Park
Molly Stark State Park is located along scenic Route 9, just east of Wilmington. Within the park's boundaries is a mixture of lawn and forest, a superb setting for introducing children to the wonders of the wild world. Hikers and nature lovers can use a trial leading from the park to the fire tower at the summit of Mount Olga. Southern Vermont State Parks
At 2400 feet Woodford State Park is the highest state park in Vermont. The surrounding Green Mountain National Forest gives the park a true remote feel. Adams Reservoir, on which the park is located, provides ample opportunity for paddling, fishing and swimming. Encircles the reservoir is 2.7 miles of hiking trail, a haven for nature watchers. Jamaica State Park
Jamaica State Park is located on the West river offering superb opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, fishing, and swimming. From the park a hiking trail follows the West River, then branches off to Hamilton Falls. At Hamilton Falls, Cobb Creek falls over a series steep ledges into pools. Townshend State Park
Townshend State Park, resting against the village of Townshend, is also located on the West River allowing for canoeing and fishing activities. For those in the mood for hiking, a trail leads to the summit of Rattlesnake Mountain passing by beautiful waterfalls, chutes and pools. Lake Shaftsbury State Park Lake Shaftsbury State Park surrounds the tranquil waters of Lake Shaftsbury. On the shores of the lake one can bask in the sun, picnic, or launch a canoe or paddle boat for a day on the water. A nature trail encircles the lake. The park is a comfortable location for group and family camping. Directions: From Bennington go 10 miles north on Rt. 7A.
The hike to Baker Peak follows a trail rich with history and natural splendor. The beginning of this 2.9 mile hike follows the blue blazed Lake Trail. This was once a carriage road to the late Griffith Lake House, private retreat of Silas Griffith, Vermont's first millionaire who made his fortune lumbering in Danby. As McGinn Brook is traversed on the Lake Trail, notice that the road is a work of genius and incredible labor. After crossing a brook, the trail switchbacks to the left starting a long uphill jaunt. The surrounding forest is home to a wide variety plant and animal life. After about 2 miles you will reach the junction with Lake Trail which continues to the right to Griffith Lake. You turn and follow the Baker Peak Trail to the left. After leaving the historic Lake Trail for the Baker Peak trail, you will be climbing upward through a mixture of hardwoods and pines to the summit. The last section of the hike is a scramble over exposed bedrock. From the summit incredible views of Mount Equinox to the south and Dorset peak across the valley, await you. Otter Creek weaves it way northward far below, slowly making its way from its headwaters here and finally ending it's journey at Lake Champlain. Hiking time one way is about 2 hours. As always when hiking, proper footwear and clothing is essential. Temperatures may be much colder at the summit and hikers should carry extra layers, as well as rain gear in case of bad weather. Trail maps are available at local bookstores; request a copy of the Long Trail Guide. Directions: Drive 2.2 miles south of Danby on US Rt. 7. Turn onto an unmarked, paved road on the left, next to a small cemetery. Drive 1/2 mile on this road to a parking lot in an open field, by a Green Mountain National Forest sign for the Lake Trial. For more information on Vermont's State Parks, check out their web site at http://www.state.vt.us/anr/fpr/parks/index.htm.
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Southern Vermont's state parks are set in a stunning landscape of forests and lakes, but are within reach of several larger townships. These oases offer much to do, from hiking, fishing, swimming to basking in the sun. They may provide that edge that will get you down, dirty and experiencing Vermont for all it has!