Is the first State Park still the best? Mount Philo State Park in Charlotte was the Green Mountain State’s first State Park and many will attest that it is indeed the best State Park in VT. It has earned the coveted Seven Daysies award for the best state park for the past several years, and it’s likely that won’t change any time soon. Let’s take a look at why people flock here every year.

From the late 19th century, Mount Philo was a popular destination for the guests of the Mt. Philo Inn.
Tripadvisor/mcdedrick
It was accessed by carriage road built in 1903 so visitors could travel to the summit via horse and carriage.
Tripadvisor/CentralCATraveler
The park was established in 1924 when the owner of the adjacent Mt. Philo Inn, Francies Humphreys, donated the land to the State of Vermont for recreational use.
Flickr/Charles Wohlers
And so the first Vermont State Park was born.
Tripadvisor/RKM1
Visitors today still love the summit picnic area.
Flickr/Justin Henry
From the picnic area visitors can take in views of Lake Champlain, the valley, and the Adirondack Mountains and the Green Mountains to the west and south.
Tripadvisor/RKM1
It's simply spectacular!
Tripadvisor/cosmetic_winnie

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The signs are detailed and easy to read so you know exactly what you're admiring.
Flickr/Justin Henry
The park features many hiking trails that lead from the base to the summit of Mount Philo.
Flickr/Justin Henry
In the summer you can take the access road allows you to drive to the top if you're not up for the hike.
Tripadvisor/Laurie V
No matter how you get here, the views from the top are worth it...
Tripadvisor/RKM1
You can spend the night in their camping area which has ten sites including three lean-tos. There are also restrooms and hot showers.
Tripadvisor/Brittany K
There is even a rustic 1930's lodge that is available to rent by the day.
Flickr/Justin Henry
Ending the day watching the sunset from Mount Philo State Park is pure magic.
Flickr/Fred Murphy

Now that we’ve looked at the first, and possibly the best State Park in VT, let’s take a look at one of the newest State Parks in the Green Mountain State.

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