Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · Vermont

Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area

Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area offers diverse habitats for a variety of wildlife and provides excellent opportunities for hiking, birding, and outdoor exploration in southwestern Vermont.

Wildlife Management Area2,2004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,200

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area

Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area offers diverse habitats for a variety of wildlife and provides excellent opportunities for hiking, birding, and outdoor exploration in southwestern Vermont.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is located in Bennington County, Vermont, covering a significant portion of the forested slopes of Mount Anthony. The area encompasses varied terrain including mixed hardwood and conifer forests, wetlands, and rocky outcrops, which create an ideal habitat for numerous species such as white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, and various migratory birds. The WMA is managed by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department with a focus on conserving wildlife habitat while providing public access for outdoor recreation. A network of trails crisscrosses the area, facilitating activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking. The summit of Mount Anthony offers panoramic views of the Taconic Mountains and the southern Green Mountains, attracting visitors year-round. Historically, the region was logged and managed for timber before being designated as a Wildlife Management Area to support conservation goals and public recreation. The proximity to the town of Bennington makes it accessible, yet the landscape remains largely undeveloped, offering a peaceful natural experience. In winter, the area is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while spring and fall provide excellent birdwatching opportunities due to seasonal migrations. The diverse ecosystems within Mount Anthony WMA contribute to its importance as a protected natural resource in Vermont.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Summit of Mount Anthony with expansive views of surrounding mountain ranges✦ Diverse habitat supporting large populations of white-tailed deer and black bear✦ Extensive trail network suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing✦ Wetland areas attracting migratory waterfowl and rare bird species
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing

Available in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Snowshoeing

Available in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; no 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 Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area

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

Bennington, Vermont
⌖ 0.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bennington, Vermont

Bennington offers outdoor lovers scenic hiking, road biking, and paddling amid Vermont’s Green Mountains. Its historic charm and access to wilderness trails make it a great four-season destination for adventure seekers.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Shaftsbury, Vermont
⌖ 4.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shaftsbury, Vermont

Shaftsbury, Vermont offers quiet outdoor adventures with rolling hills, forest trails, and the peaceful Hoosic River. Ideal for hiking, paddling, and cross-country skiing, it’s a low-key base for exploring southern Vermont’s natural beauty.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Pownal, Vermont
⌖ 5.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pownal, Vermont

Pownal, VT offers peaceful outdoor adventures with hiking, paddling, and winter sports amid quiet woods and rivers. This rural town is perfect for travelers seeking a low-key Vermont experience close to the Green Mountains.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Woodford, Vermont
⌖ 6.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Woodford, Vermont

Woodford, Vermont is a quiet mountain town known for peaceful hiking, backcountry camping, and winter snow sports. Surrounded by protected forests, it’s a perfect escape for nature lovers seeking solitude and classic Green Mountain scenery.

Late Spring through Fall; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Williamstown, Massachusetts
⌖ 11.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Williamstown, Massachusetts

Williamstown is an adventure-lover's retreat with access to prime hiking, cycling routes, and winter sports in the scenic Berkshires. It's a perfect blend of outdoor excitement and rich cultural experiences.

Searsburg, Vermont
⌖ 12.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Searsburg, Vermont

Searsburg, Vermont is a remote town ideal for outdoor lovers seeking solitude in the Green Mountains. Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and paddling in pristine, rugged landscapes far from the crowds.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mount Anthony Wildlife Management Area

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