Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Room with a View

If you’re looking for a few more amenities while you enjoy the season, Seyon Lodge offers a retreat Teddy Roosevelt would have been sure to enjoy. The recreational opportunities in Groton State Forest are unparalleled winter or summer. There are 4.9 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails for your family’s use.




Additionally, thousands of acres beckon to be discovered on snowshoes right outside the front door of the lodge. Then, when you’re done with your adventure, completely relax next to the fire and then retreat to the dining room for a wonderful evening meal. The meals have even been known to draw the locals out from their warm homes and down the snowy roads! After you awake to your breakfast, the friendly Innkeepers will be happy to direct you to all the exciting opportunities the area has to offer. Seyon Lodge, without a doubt, offers a winter get-away you will never forget.

A whole new world of recreational opportunities presents itself when the snow falls in Vermont. Even in winter, there are great things happening in Vermont State Parks. All park lands are open and available for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and lots of other winter activities. In fact, two fantastic winter parks are in full swing. The Stone Hut on the top of Mt. Mansfield and Seyon Ranch in Groton are surrounded by the perfect environment for all your winter adventures.


The Stone Hut is a rustic single room cabin that offers winter camping with the opportunity for first tracks on the slopes in the morning. While not far from the bustling activity of Stowe, its sits among the wind swept firs and the uninterrupted night sky. You can hike, ski or ride the lift up then settle into a warm cozy cottage built by the nation’s ski pioneers with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps. You’ll enjoy a quiet night with family

or friends by the fire and you certainly will not miss the electricity, TV or phone as you settle into your bunk with dreams of the next day’s winter adventure. Whether your plans include back country skiing, ice climbing, snow shoeing along the highest peak in the state, or the preeminent downhill skiing in the East are sure to be surrounded by the best terrain and scenery in the state. Your stay will certainly result in great adventures, great memories and a great desire to return again next year for a stay in the historic Stone Hut.

The Stone Hut is available from Mid-November until Mid-April, and can be contacted at 802-253-4010. Seyon Lodge is open year round for individual and groups (802-584-3829). And if your already planning your summer vacation, reservations for all the other parks are taken up to 11 months in advance. Our Reservation Call Center (1-888-409-7579) operates 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

There is Wonder and Adventure Waiting for You to Discover in Vermont State Parks

Take a moment and ask yourself a question, “What shall I Explore?” Whether it is a tranquil fly-fishing spot off the beaten path or some of the most breath-taking mountain top views in the world, Vermont State Parks has a new adventure waiting for you everyday.


Pick your Method of Adventure…

There are so many exciting opportunities in Vermont State Parks for you and your family to have a one-of-a-kind vacation or outing. Exploring and experiencing all Vermont has to offer can start with choosing activities that you can do as a family. Such activities include, canoeing, hiking, biking, fishing, motor boating, horseback riding, and exploring Vermont’s historic sites.

Explore by Boat…

Vermont State Parks has waterfront parks suitable for every interest. If white water kayaking tickles your fancy, give Jamaica State Park a try for their biannual white water release. Maybe calmer waters are more your style. Check out the canoe accessible campsites at Green River Reservoir. If you don’t even consider it a boat unless it has a couple of downriggers and a drywell then Burton Island State Park might be the park for you.

Explore on Foot…

From quiet paths to arduous treks Vermont has it all. What better way to experience Vermont beauty then at the slower pace that is only accomplished on foot? Parks like Smugglers’ Notch and Coolidge offer access to the Long Trail, the Nations first long distance hiking trail. An abundance of hikes for every taste can be found in Groton State Forest (New Discovery, Stillwater, and Big Deer State Parks). If you would rather meander through a quaint village full of local artisans, Quechee State Park can give you access to more then you’ve dreamed of.

Explore History…

The history of Vermont can be found in and around Vermont State Parks. In fact many of the parks where built by this country's conservation pioneers, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). If you are looking for a full day of exploration try Mount Philo State Park, just down the road from the Shelburne Museum. Or walk in the path of early Vermonters and try Little River State Park, which contains an entire abandoned township. Diversify your day by visiting one of the nearby Vermont Historic Sites like the Bennington Battle Monument and then spend the rest of the day at one of our beaches nearby, such as the one at Woodford State Park.

Regardless of the type of exploration you would like to do there is sure to be a Vermont State Park that suits your needs. A wealth of activities can be found year round. To explore Vermont State Parks some choose to be spontaneous and get up and go for the day but, you can always call the friendly reservation staff (1-888-409-7579) who will help you pick the park that is right for your family. Calling the parks directly will get you a plethora of information on the park and the surrounding area. With out a doubt, Exploring Vermont State Parks is sure to give you an adventure that you won’t soon forget.

Cabins & Cottages in Vermont State Parks

Wondering if there is an alternative to campsites and lean-to style shelters in Vermont State Parks? Well, there is! For those seeking something other than the traditional camping experience but want to retain the rustic setting, Vermont State Parks offer several choices.


Cabins are rustic one-room structures that come semi-furnished and can be rented on a nightly basis. We’re pleased to announce that state parks throughout Vermont now offer 27 cabins for rent. Cabins come equipped with sleeping space for 4 people--a fold-out couch or futon and a set of bunk beds. There’s an indoor table with chairs, screened and secure windows and doors, and a front porch. Cabins have electricity to provide lights and an outlet for convenience, cooking is done outside and smoking and pets are not allowed. Occupants supply linens or sleeping bags. Cabins are situated close to campground restroom and shower facilities for convenience. Most units provide universal access. Cabin sites are designed to accommodate a maximum of 4 occupants, with space for a tent or small RV. You can find rental cabins at Brighton, Ricker Pond, Lake Carmi, Grand Isle, Half Moon Pond, Gifford Woods and Wilgus State Parks. They can be booked on a nightly basis (if reserving, minimum period is required).

Still looking for more comforts? Try a state park cottage- self-sufficient weekly rental units set aside from camping areas, in their own unique settings. They come fully furnished with sleeping space for 6; standard accommodation is usually a full size bed, a set of bunks, and a pull-out sofa. Cottages have fully equipped kitchens with fridge/freezer, all cooking utensils, microwave, toaster oven and coffee maker. The living area is furnished with sofa chairs, and dining table. All cottages include their own bathroom with shower. Cottages have porches where you can sit, relax and take in the scenery. Units providing universal access are available. All cottages have electric or gas heat. The only things you’ll have to bring are linens, food, and a long list of area attractions to check out! Some cottages even come with their own canoes!

Rental cottages are available for a 3 night minimum stay from park opening to June 15 and, at some parks, from Labor Day to Columbus Day. From June 15 to Labor Day, they are rented on a weekly basis from Saturday to Saturday. Special refund and cancellation policies apply. Cottages are located at Crystal Lake, Ricker Pond, Camp Plymouth, Half Moon Pond, Shaftsbury and Branbury State Parks.


If either of these options sounds good to you, book your stay today! Units are popular and can fill up quickly.