Victory State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · VT

Victory State Forest

Victory State Forest in Vermont offers a serene retreat into nature with its expansive woodlands, providing visitors with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and peaceful solitude.

State Forest14,000+4+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

14,000+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Victory State Forest

Victory State Forest in Vermont offers a serene retreat into nature with its expansive woodlands, providing visitors with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and peaceful solitude.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Victory State Forest is situated in the northeast region of Vermont, within Essex County, covering over 14,000 acres of natural beauty. This forest is characterized by its rugged terrain, dense woodlands, and serene atmosphere, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest is home to a diverse range of species, including moose, deer, and various bird species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation. The area's history is rich, with the land having been used for logging and other early industrial activities before its establishment as a state forest. Recreation options abound, with miles of trails accessible for hiking, mountain biking, and during winter, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Notable landmarks include the scenic views from Bald Mountain and the peaceful surroundings of the West Mountain WMA. Visitors are drawn to Victory State Forest for its tranquility and the unique opportunity to experience Vermont's natural landscapes away from more crowded destinations.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Victory State Forest

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Bald Mountain provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.✦ Home to diverse wildlife, providing rewarding birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities.✦ West Mountain WMA offers unique insights into Vermont's remote wilderness.✦ The forest's quietude makes for an excellent backdrop for meditation and relaxation.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Victory State Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Victory State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Victory State Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Victory State Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Victory State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Victory 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 Victory State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access to the forest, no permits required for general 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 Victory State Forest

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

Burke, Vermont
⌖ 4.31 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
⌖ 8.04 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
Lyndonville, Vermont
⌖ 10.19 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
Brighton, Vermont
⌖ 10.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brighton, Vermont

Brighton, Vermont is a quiet outdoor retreat perfect for paddling, hiking, and winter sports. With pristine ponds, protected forests, and wildlife viewing, it offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers seeking less crowded trails and waters.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Lyndon, Vermont
⌖ 11.47 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
Island Pond, Vermont
⌖ 11.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Island Pond, Vermont

Island Pond, Vermont offers peaceful lake paddling, scenic hiking trails, and rewarding winter sports in a charming, small-town setting. It’s a perfect basecamp for outdoor adventurers exploring Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Victory 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