Lyndon State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · VT

Lyndon State Forest

Lyndon State Forest is a protected woodland area in Vermont offering diverse trails and quiet natural landscapes ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal outdoor activities.

State Forest21504+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

2150

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Lyndon State Forest

Lyndon State Forest is a protected woodland area in Vermont offering diverse trails and quiet natural landscapes ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal outdoor activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Lyndon State Forest is located in Caledonia County, Vermont, covering a mix of northern hardwood and coniferous forests. The forest features gentle topography with rolling hills, providing a diverse habitat that supports deer, black bears, moose, and various bird species. Historically, the land has been managed for sustainable timber harvesting, wildlife habitat, and public recreation since it was established in the early 20th century. Visitors enjoy well-maintained trails suited for hiking, snowshoeing, and mountain biking in warmer months, with winter sports such as cross-country skiing becoming popular during snowy conditions. The forest's natural tranquility and relatively low visitor density make it a favored spot for bird watchers and photographers looking to capture Vermont’s seasonal foliage transitions. Nearby landmarks include the Passumpsic River, which adds to the area’s scenic appeal and provides fishing opportunities. As a state forest, Lyndon aims to balance conservation with low-impact recreation, supporting educational programs and stewardship initiatives focused on forest health and wildlife protection.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lyndon State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Expansive mixed hardwood and softwood forest with vibrant seasonal colors✦ Diverse wildlife habitat supporting moose, black bear, and migratory birds✦ Network of multi-use trails suitable for mountain biking and winter sports✦ Proximity to Passumpsic River offering fishing and scenic water views
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lyndon State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Lyndon State Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Lyndon State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Lyndon State Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Lyndon State Forest
Park Recreation

Snowshoeing

Available in Lyndon State Forest
Park Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing

Available in Lyndon State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Lyndon State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Lyndon State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; no special permits required for day use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lyndon State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Lyndonville, Vermont
⌖ 0.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lyndonville, Vermont

Lyndonville is a small Vermont town offering peaceful hiking, paddling, and year-round trail activities in the scenic Northeast Kingdom. It’s a perfect spot for travelers seeking laid-back outdoor adventures amid quiet forests and rivers.

Late Spring to Early Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Lyndon, Vermont
⌖ 1.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lyndon, Vermont

Lyndon, Vermont, is a quiet outdoor destination with hiking, paddling, and skiing opportunities framed by forests and rivers. Outdoor lovers will appreciate its accessible trails, local ski hills, and peaceful Northeast Kingdom setting.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowboarding
Explore Town
Burke, Vermont
⌖ 6.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burke, Vermont

Burke, Vermont offers year-round adventure from scenic hikes and mountain biking to winter skiing and snowboarding. With peaceful lakes and rugged mountain trails, it’s a welcoming spot for outdoor lovers seeking genuine Vermont wilderness experiences.

Spring through Winter
Explore Town
Sutton, Vermont
⌖ 6.69 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sutton, Vermont

Sutton offers peaceful outdoor escapes with hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports amid Vermont’s green forests and stunning Lake Willoughby. It’s perfect for travelers wanting quiet nature and scenic small-town charm.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing and snowshoeing
Explore Town
St. Johnsbury, Vermont
⌖ 8.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St. Johnsbury, Vermont

St. Johnsbury, Vermont offers outdoor lovers access to hiking, paddling, and winter sports amid gentle hills and river corridors. Its quiet forests and small-town charm make it a great gateway to the Northeast Kingdom’s natural beauty year-round.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowshoeing
Explore Town
Danville, Vermont
⌖ 10.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Danville, Vermont

Danville, Vermont offers a quiet, rural escape with scenic hiking, paddling, and winter sports amid the Green Mountains. Its Sleepers River Recreation Area provides peaceful trails and waterways for low-impact outdoor fun all year.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Lyndon State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Vast Quiet: Half‑Day Kayaking on Moore Reservoir
ADVEXPEDITION
Littleton, New Hampshire
KayakADV Bookable

Vast Quiet: Half‑Day Kayaking on Moore Reservoir

A four‑hour, self‑guided kayak rental on Moore Reservoir that lets you land anywhere, swim in secluded coves, and soak in White Mountain views.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip