Did you know that Smugglers Notch State Park earned its intriguing name during the Prohibition era when bootleggers used its narrow mountain pass to smuggle illegal liquor from Canada? This historic corridor, with its 1,000-foot cliffs and winding roads, once served as a secret route for everything from contraband cattle in the 1800s to escaped slaves seeking freedom. Today, this dramatic mountain pass in Vermont’s Green Mountains has transformed from a smuggler’s haven into one of New England’s most captivating outdoor destinations.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Smugglers Notch State Park is nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, approximately 48 km (30 miles) east of Burlington. The park is primarily accessed via the scenic Route 108, locally known as “The Mountain Road,” which winds through the dramatic mountain pass between Stowe and Jeffersonville.

From Interstate 89, take Exit 10 and follow Route 100 North to Stowe Village. In Stowe, turn left onto Route 108 and continue for about 10.5 km (6.5 miles) until you reach the park entrance on your left. If approaching from the north, note that the narrow, winding section of Route 108 through the Notch is closed during winter months (typically November through May).

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Smugglers Notch State Park has a distinct operating season, typically open from mid-May through mid-October. The park’s dramatic climate variations throughout the year create unique experiences depending on when you visit.

Weather in the Green Mountains can change rapidly. Even in summer, temperatures at higher elevations can be 5-10°C (10-20°F) cooler than in nearby towns. Always check the forecast before visiting and pack layers regardless of season.

Getting Around Locally

Navigating Smugglers Notch State Park and its surrounding areas requires some planning, especially given the seasonal road closures and mountainous terrain.

By Car

A personal vehicle offers the most flexibility for exploring the area. Route 108 through the Notch is a narrow, winding road with hairpin turns that’s not suitable for RVs, buses, or trailers. The road is typically closed from early November through late May due to snow and ice.

Shuttle Services

During summer and fall, the Mountain Road Shuttle connects Stowe Village with attractions along Route 108, including stops near the state park. This free service runs approximately every 30 minutes during peak season.

Hiking & Biking

Many visitors explore the park exclusively on foot via its extensive trail network. Mountain biking is popular on designated trails in the surrounding area, though not permitted on most hiking trails within the park itself.

Where to Stay

Smugglers Notch offers diverse accommodation options ranging from rustic camping to luxury resorts, all providing unique ways to experience Vermont’s natural beauty.

Camping in the Park

Smugglers Notch State Park features 20 tent sites and 14 lean-to sites in a peaceful woodland setting. The campground is typically open from mid-May through mid-October and offers basic amenities including flush toilets, hot showers, and drinking water. Most sites are walk-in only and not accessible by vehicle.

Nearby Accommodations

The surrounding towns of Stowe and Jeffersonville offer numerous lodging options:

Dining & Local Cuisine

While Smugglers Notch State Park itself has limited dining options, the surrounding area offers excellent opportunities to sample Vermont’s renowned farm-to-table cuisine and local specialties.

In the Park

The state park has no restaurant facilities, but each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table for outdoor cooking. The park office sells firewood and ice, and there’s a small camp store with basic supplies.

Local Vermont Specialties

The region around Smugglers Notch is known for several culinary highlights:

• Maple syrup and maple-infused products from local sugar houses
• Artisanal cheeses from small-batch creameries
• Craft beers from Vermont’s renowned microbreweries
• Apple cider and cider donuts, especially during fall harvest
• Farm-fresh produce and locally raised meats

Nearby Dining Options

Within a 15-20 minute drive of the park, you’ll find numerous dining establishments:

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Smugglers Notch State Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities and natural attractions that showcase Vermont’s stunning landscape and rich history.

Scenic Drive

The 5.6 km (3.5 mile) drive through Smugglers Notch on Route 108 is an attraction in itself. This narrow mountain pass features towering rock formations, cascading streams, and numerous pullouts for taking in the spectacular views.

Hiking Trails

The park offers access to some of Vermont’s most rewarding hiking trails:

Rock Climbing & Bouldering

The Notch’s massive rock formations offer some of New England’s best climbing opportunities, with routes for all skill levels. Local outfitters provide guided climbing experiences and equipment rental.

Cave Exploration

Several small caves and rock formations throughout the Notch can be explored, including the famous “King Rock” and “Queen City Rock.” Some require scrambling over boulders and should only be attempted with proper footwear and caution.

Seasonal Experiences & Outdoor Adventures

Each season transforms Smugglers Notch State Park, offering unique outdoor experiences throughout the year.

Summer Activities

Summer brings perfect conditions for exploring the park’s natural beauty:

• Swimming in natural pools and at Bingham Falls
• Mountain biking on nearby trail networks
• Picnicking at designated areas throughout the Notch
• Wildlife viewing and bird watching
• Ranger-led nature programs and interpretive hikes

Fall Experiences

Autumn transforms the park into a spectacular display of color:

• Leaf-peeping along the scenic Route 108
• Photography opportunities with vibrant foliage backdrops
• Harvest festivals in nearby communities
• Crisp, clear days ideal for hiking

Winter Adventures

Though the park’s facilities close and Route 108 through the Notch is impassable to vehicles, winter brings its own adventures:

• Ice climbing on frozen waterfalls (for experienced climbers)
• Backcountry skiing and snowshoeing (access from either end of the Notch)
• Nearby downhill skiing at Smugglers’ Notch Resort and Stowe Mountain Resort
• Cross-country skiing on groomed trails in the region

Spring Renewal

As snow melts and the landscape reawakens:

• Witnessing the spring snowmelt create powerful waterfalls
• Wildflower spotting along early-season trails
• Bird watching during spring migration
• Visiting local sugar houses during maple sugaring season (typically March)

Practical Travel Tips

Make the most of your visit to Smugglers Notch State Park with these essential tips and information.

Park Fees & Permits

Day use and camping fees apply at Smugglers Notch State Park. As of 2023, day use fees are approximately $4 for adults and $2 for children, while camping fees range from $20-30 per night depending on the site type. Vermont State Park passes offering season-long access are available for frequent visitors.

Safety Considerations

• Cell phone service is limited throughout the Notch; download maps offline before your visit
• Weather can change rapidly; always bring extra layers even on warm days
• Inform someone of your hiking plans, especially for longer or more challenging trails
• Bring sufficient water and snacks for all activities
• Wear appropriate footwear for rocky, uneven terrain

Visitor Facilities

The Barnes Camp Visitor Center near the southern entrance to the Notch provides information, maps, and interpretive displays about the park’s natural and cultural history. Restroom facilities are available at the campground and at designated day-use areas throughout the park.

Accessibility

Smugglers Notch State Park offers some accessible facilities, including designated campsites, restrooms, and the Wetlands Boardwalk near Barnes Camp. However, due to the mountainous terrain, many trails and natural features have limited accessibility.

Embrace the Adventure at Smugglers Notch

From its fascinating history as a smuggler’s route to its modern identity as an outdoor recreation paradise, Smugglers Notch State Park embodies the wild beauty and adventurous spirit of Vermont. Whether you’re scaling granite cliffs, hiking to alpine ponds, or simply soaking in the spectacular mountain scenery, the park offers countless ways to connect with nature and create lasting memories.

As you plan your visit, remember that each season brings its own unique charm to the Notch. Summer offers lush forests and refreshing swimming holes, fall transforms the landscape into a painter’s palette of colors, winter creates an ice climber’s paradise, and spring brings the renewal of cascading waterfalls and emerging wildflowers.

Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to discover why Smugglers Notch has captivated visitors for generations. The mountains are calling—will you answer?