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Vermont
7

Vermont State Parks

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USA Parks
Vermont
Central Region
Washington State Forest
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WASHINGTON STATE FOREST
WASHINGTON STATE FOREST
Washington, Vermont   05675
(lat:44.0421 lon:-72.3828) map location
The Washington State Forest stands as a picturesque treasure, encompassing a diverse landscape that showcases the harmonious coexistence of nature and human intervention. With its lush greenery, towering trees, and tranquil streams, the forest offers a serene escape from the bustle of everyday life. Visitors can traverse the well-maintained trails that lead them through striking vistas, vibrant wildflowers, and majestic wildlife habitats. The Washington State Forest is not only a haven for those seeking solitude in nature but also an educational hub, providing valuable insights into the region's natural history and the powerful impact humans have on our environment.
History of the Area
The land that currently makes up Washington State Forest was originally part of the Vermont wilderness, home to several Native American tribes. In the 18th century, European settlers gradually started to arrive in the area. They utilized the land for farming and logging.

During the mid-19th century, the logging industry boomed in the region. The abundant forests of Vermont, including the area that is now Washington State Forest, were heavily exploited for timber. The logging operations were crucial for the development of nearby towns and provided employment opportunities for many settlers.

In the early 20th century, conservation efforts began to take shape in Vermont. Recognizing the importance of preserving natural resources, the state government started acquiring tracts of land to establish state forests. Washington State Forest was one of the areas acquired during this time.

In 1934, the Vermont Department of Forests and Parks officially established Washington State Forest. The purpose of creating the state forest was to conserve the natural and cultural resources of the area, provide recreational opportunities, and sustainably manage the forest for future generations.
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Trails
1. Long Trail: A 272-mile trail stretching across Vermont, part of which runs through Washington State Forest.

2. Appalachian Trail: This iconic hiking route also passes through the forest; a section is approximately 150 miles long in Vermont alone.

3. Mad River Valley Trails: These trails offer various lengths and difficulties within their network that spans over several towns including Waitsfield and Warren near the state forest.

4. Camel's Hump Summit Loop via Monroe Trail & Dean's Connector Pathway: An intense hike measuring about six miles round trip with stunning views at its peak.

5. Hedgehog Brook to Burnt Rock Mountain Route - Approximately five mile out-and-back trek offering panoramic vistas from atop Burnt Rock Mountain.

6. The Catamount Cross-Country Skiing Track - In winter months it becomes an excellent snowshoe or cross-country skiing path spanning around twenty kilometers.

7. Battell Woods Nature Walk- Easy one-mile loop suitable for families located nearby Middlebury College Snow Bowl ski area close to Hancock town bordering on Washington State Forest territory

8. Sunset Ledge Out-and-Breakfast Trek- Moderate two mile uphill climb leading towards picturesque sunset viewing spot situated off Long trail southwards from Lincoln Gap Road crossing

9. Robert Frost Interpretive Path - Gentle one-mile walk featuring plaques displaying Robert Frost poems along scenic woodland pathway adjacent Ripton village neighboring northern boundary of Washington State Forest

10. Cooley Glen/Emily Proctor Loop track- Strenuous twelve mile circuitous journey traverses high ridges connecting Cooley Glen shelter with Emily Proctor Shelter alongside Breadloaf Wilderness Area abutting southern edge of this state-owned preserve

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Area Campgrounds
Limehurst Lake Campground
4104 VT Rt 14
Williamston, VT

Directions
1. Start on I:89 N from Burlington, Vermont.
2. Take exit 10 for VT:100 S towards Waterbury US-2.
3. Continue onto VT:100 S/US:2 E/Stowe St and drive to your destination in Duxbury.

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Vermont
7

Vermont State Parks

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