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Vermont
7

Vermont State Parks

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USA Parks
Vermont
Central Region
Roxbury State Forest
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ROXBURY STATE FOREST
ROXBURY STATE FOREST
Northfield, Vermont   05663
(lat:44.0751 lon:-72.7806) map location
The Roxbury State Forest is a captivating natural wonder encompassing 5,880 picturesque acres of breathtaking wilderness. This enchanting forest is characterized by its lush greenery, towering trees, and diverse range of flora and fauna, offering a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With a well-maintained network of trails meandering through the forest, visitors can embark on invigorating hikes, discover hidden streams, and witness the panoramic vistas from various viewpoints. Whether it's camping under the starlit sky, observing the vibrant wildlife, or simply immersing oneself in the serene ambiance, Roxbury State Forest provides an idyllic escape fostering a profound connection with nature and a rejuvenation of the soul.
History of the Area
1. Native American Presence: Prior to European settlement, the area now known as Roxbury State Forest was inhabited by the indigenous Abenaki people. They relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering in the forests and rivers of the region.

2. Colonial Settlement: Colonists began to settle in the area in the mid-18th century. The town of Roxbury (from which the forest gets its name) was chartered in 1781. The settlers primarily engaged in farming, utilizing the fertile land available in the region.

3. Logging and Agricultural Use: Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the forests of Roxbury were heavily logged for their timber resources. The logging industry contributed to the local economy and helped fuel the development of nearby towns. Many of the cleared areas were converted into farmland, particularly for the cultivation of hay.

4. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC): In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps established a camp in Roxbury. The CCC carried out various projects in the area, including reforestation, trail construction, and the development of recreational areas. Some of the hiking trails still in use today were originally built by the CCC.

5. State Forest Establishment: In 1950, Roxbury State Forest was officially established by the Vermont Department of Forests and Parks. The purpose behind the creation of the state forest was to provide public recreational opportunities and conserve the forested landscape. Today, the forest covers an area of approximately 2,395 acres.

6. Recreational Use: Roxbury State Forest offers a range of recreational activities throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, camping, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fishing in its various streams and ponds. The forest is also rich in wildlife, including deer, moose, and various bird species.
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Location
Roxbury State Forest is located near Montpelier

Trails
1. The Roxbury Fish Hatchery Trail: A 2-mile round trip trail, featuring a lake and primarily used for hiking and nature trips.

2. Warren Mountain Road Loop: This is an approximately 6 miles long loop trail that offers scenic views of the forest.

3. Lincoln Gap to Mount Abraham via Long Trail South: An intense hike spanning about 5 miles with stunning panoramic vistas at the summit of Mt.Abraham.

4. Blueberry Lake Cross Country Center Trails: These trails cover around five kilometers in total length; they are perfect for beginners due to their flat terrain.

5. Mad River Path's Mill Brook Nature Walkway & Boardwalks - Waitsfield Village Section : It's roughly half-a-mile walk along riverbanks offering beautiful natural scenery.

6.The Bobbin Mill Footpath - Moretown Common section : About one mile long path through forests alongside brooks providing serene atmosphere ideal for leisure walks or runs .

7.Sunflower Hill Walking/Hiking Paths- Fayston/Waitsfield area sections : Multiple paths ranging from quarter mile up-to two-miles each , winding across fields, woods giving ample opportunities to spot wildlife .

8.Long Trail North (Appalachian) towards Camel Hump Peak- Duxbury/Roxbury region segment . Approximately ten miles strenuous trek reaching peak elevation over four thousand feet above sea level rewarding hikers with breathtaking landscapes .

9.Mad River Greenway Main Route-Waitsville village stretch . Just under three-quarters-of-a-mile easy walking route following banks of mad river suitable all age groups including families with children/strollers/pets etcetera

10.Burnt Rock Mountain Via Hedgehog Brook And Long Trails-Fayston sector part ; Roughly six-and-half-miles challenging climb leading upto Burnt rock mountain top presenting spectacular valley/forest/mountain range views especially during fall season when foliage turns vibrant colors

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Area Campgrounds
Limehurst Lake Campground
4104 VT Rt 14
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Abel Mountain Campground
354 Mobile Acres Road
Braintree, VT
802-728-5548
Area Cabins and Lodges
Bridges Family Resort & Tennis Club The
202 Bridges Cir
Warren, VT
(802) 583-2922
Sugarbush Inn and Conference Center
1840 Sugarbush Access Rd
Warren, VT
(802) 583-6100
Eagles Resort
169 Eagles Rd
Waitsfield, VT
(802) 496-5700

Directions
1. Start on I:89 N from Burlington, Vermont.
2. Take exit 3 for VT:107 toward Bethel/Royalton.
3. Turn right onto VT:107 W (signs for Roxbury/Bethel).
4. Continue to follow VT:12A S into Roxbury village center.
5. In the town of Roxbury, turn left at Warren Mountain Road near the post office and general store.
6a: For East Hill trailhead - continue up Warren Mtn Rd until you see a sign indicating "Roxbury State Forest" on your right.

OR

6b: For West Hill trailhead - after turning onto Warren Mtn Rd., take an immediate left onto Carrie Howe road; drive approximately two miles till end where there's parking space available by forest entrance gate.

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Vermont
7

Vermont State Parks

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