Smugglers Notch State Park

Smugglers Notch State Park is a testament to Vermont's rugged natural beauty and intriguing history. The 'Notch' itself is a narrow pass through the Mount Mansfield State Forest, flanked by 1,000-foot cliffs. In the early 1800s, President Thomas Jefferson passed an embargo forbidding American trade with Great Britain and Canada. Local Vermonters, relying on that trade, used this hidden, treacherous route to smuggle goods across the border. Later, during Prohibition, the same route was used to smuggle liquor from Canada. Today, the park is a peaceful sanctuary for nature lovers, offering a dramatic landscape carved by glaciers.

The park features a relocated and restored historic campground, built originally by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Visitors can explore the Bingham Falls trail, which leads to a stunning cascading waterfall and deep gorge, or tackle the challenging trails leading up Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak. The unique geology of the area also makes it a popular spot for bouldering and cave exploration. Whether you are driving the scenic byway, pitching a tent under the stars, or hiking through the vibrant autumn leaves, Smugglers Notch provides a quintessential New England outdoor experience.

Reasons to Visit

• Experience one of the most scenic and thrilling mountain drives in New England along Route 108.
• Hike to Bingham Falls, a spectacular 40-foot cascading waterfall with deep, clear pools.
• Immerse yourself in world-class fall foliage viewing during September and October.
• Explore the unique caves and massive boulders left behind by glacial activity.
• Enjoy rustic, historic camping facilities originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Things to Avoid

• Do not attempt to drive an RV, trailer, or large vehicle through the Notch; you will get stuck and face hefty fines.
• Avoid hiking off-trail in the alpine zones to protect the rare and fragile plant life.
• Do not leave food unattended at your campsite, as black bears are active in the area.
• Avoid visiting during peak weekend hours in October if you want to escape heavy traffic and crowds.

Local Transportation Tips

The primary way to access and explore Smugglers Notch State Park is by personal vehicle. Route 108 is the main artery running through the park, connecting Stowe to Jeffersonville. During the summer and fall, driving is straightforward, though the road requires careful navigation due to its narrow, winding nature. There is no public transportation directly into the park, so renting a car is essential if you are flying into Burlington. Biking is popular for experienced cyclists, but the steep grades and narrow shoulders demand caution.

Travel Etiquette

• Practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash and respect wildlife.
• Yield to uphill hikers on narrow trails.
• Keep noise levels down at campsites, especially during quiet hours (typically 10 PM to 7 AM).
• Respect road closures and do not bypass barriers when the Notch road is closed for winter.

Recommended Age Group

Smugglers Notch State Park offers diverse experiences that cater to various age groups, though the rugged terrain dictates the level of activity suitable for each.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While the scenic drive is beautiful, trails are generally not stroller-friendly, requiring a sturdy baby carrier for any hiking.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love exploring the small caves, scrambling over boulders, and the short hike to Bingham Falls.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The park offers excellent bouldering, challenging hikes, and a sense of adventure that appeals to teenagers.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Perfect for hiking, photography, camping, and enjoying the challenging trails up Mount Mansfield.
• Seniors (65+ years): Neutral. The scenic drive along Route 108 is highly recommended and easily accessible, but the steep, rocky trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The scenic drive along Route 108 can be enjoyed from the comfort of a vehicle, offering excellent views without the need to hike.
• The campground features accessible restrooms and a few campsites designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.
• Most hiking trails, including the path to Bingham Falls, are rocky, uneven, and steep, making them unsuitable for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility impairments.
• The park's visitor center area provides some flat, accessible spaces for picnicking and taking in the scenery.

Did You Know?

During the War of 1812, the caves and crevices of Smugglers Notch were used to hide cattle and other goods being illegally traded with Montreal. Decades later, fugitive slaves used the Notch as a route to Canada on the Underground Railroad, and during the 1920s, it became a notorious route for bootleggers smuggling Canadian alcohol into the US during Prohibition.

Cool Statistics

• Mount Mansfield, accessible from the park, is the highest peak in Vermont at 4,393 feet.
• The cliffs lining the Notch rise dramatically to over 1,000 feet above the road.
• The park's campground was relocated in 2003 to preserve the fragile environment of the Notch, moving it slightly south while maintaining its historic CCC structures.
• Route 108 through the Notch is closed for roughly 6 to 7 months of the year due to snow.