If there’s anything we’re certain of, it’s that every time of year is an amazing time of year to enjoy a hike at any of the 55 Vermont state parks. Enjoy cool weather and beat some of the crowds by venturing to Emerald Lake State Park ASAP. From the roadside, you may not notice its beautiful lake hiding in plain sight, but get closer and you’ll be able to see what this natural wonder is all about.

Welcome to Emerald Lake State Park in East Dorset.
Elvis355/TripAdvisor
The 430-acre park is a favorite destination amongst hikers, due to the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail being nearby, along with the trails on Dorset Mountain. But with a few smaller trails near the lake, it's also popular for families and casual hikers.
The park surrounds the 20-acre namesake lake, Emerald Lake.
Amanda Cheng/Google reviews
In the summer, it's a favorite spot for locals and out-of-town visitors to take a dip in its crystal clear waters. In the fall, it's an amazing bastion of color and light.
Take the lake trail to see beautiful Emerald Lake at all different angles.
Kristin Safford/Google Reviews
The Lake Trail begins at the beach and follows along the shore of Emerald Lake to its southern end. It's only .5 miles long, so a relatively easy hike!

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Along the trail, you'll find quieter swim spots.
Marc Bachofner/Google reviews
Plenty of amazing views here and fishing is also popular along this trail.
Even in the fall, the lake is still breathtaking.
Phunky Sunshiine/TripAdvisor
It may not look as emerald as it does in the summer, but the fall views are still pretty fantastic.
Sometimes the water even looks turquoise.
Amit Shah/Google Local
During different times of the day and during the summer season, the water may appear more turquoise than emerald.
For majestic views, easy hikes, and a serene setting, head to Emerald Lake State Park.
Amanda Young/Google review
In addition to the Lake Trail, the Vista Trail is also popular and offers amazing views of both Emerald Lake and the Taconic Mountains. For those who want to stay the night, there are 66 tent and RV sites as well as 37 lean-to sites.

Have you been to this Vermont state park before? Is the short hike worth the beautiful views? What other state parks are worthy of a visit? Let us know – we’d love to hear from you in the comments! Need a place to call home while you’re here? Check out all the offerings from our friends at Booking.com.

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More to Explore

Vermont State Parks

Tori Jane | March 18, 2024

What Vermont state parks are worthy of my bucket list?  

With as many awesome state parks as we have to pick from, Vermont is no slouch! Of course, some of our state parks do tend to be a little more noteworthy than others; some of these Vermont state parks worthy of every bucket list are ones like:  

  • Emerald Lake State Park – As one of our most popular state parks, Emerald Lake is a vacation destination that you don’t need to wander too far for.  
  • Grand Isle State Park – This awesome state park is located on a literal island, and if that’s not the coolest thing ever we’re not sure anything is.  
  • Mt. Ascutney State Park – We do have climbable mountains in Rhode Island, and one of them is the main attractions at this immaculately wonderful state park.  

Learn more about some of the best state parks in Vermont.   

 

How many state parks in Vermont are there?  

Hang on to your hat – amazingly, Vermont has 55 incredible state parks, all of which are worthy of a visit or ten. The list of must-see state parks in Vermont doesn’t end with the short list above, either; there are plenty more must-see state parks in Vermont, including:  

  • Underhill State Park – This amazing park is filled top-to-bottom with incredible hiking trails, many of which lead to some of the best views in the state.  
  • Camel’s Hump State Park – Speaking of amazing views, hiking at Camel’s Hump is an adventure worthy of anyone’s bucket list.  
  • Burton Island State Park – Another island-based Vermont state park, there are no cars here, so plan accordingly.  

Learn more about all the best state parks in Vermont.  

 

What are some of the best hikes in Vermont?  

With all our amazing state parks comes amazing hiking trails, too – and all the best hikes in Vermont await! Some of the most popular, much-beloved hikes in Vermont that are totally worthy of checking out are hikes such as:  

  • Sterling Pond Trail – Located within Smugglers' Notch State Park, this amazing hike features a sparkling alpine lake.  
  • Buttermilk Falls Trail – This stunning hike leads to a rushing waterfall. How cool is that?  
  • Siler Lake Trail – Another lake hike worthy of mentioning, this wonderful respite from the real world is rated as moderate.  

Learn more about all the best hiking trails in Vermont.   

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65 Emerald Lake Ln, East Dorset, VT 05253, USA