Vermont State Parks Total Eclipse Updates

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An image of the sun eclipsed by the Vermont State Parks Logo. On the edge of the circle, the text reads Total Eclipse in the Parks 4-8-2024.
Although it falls outside our regular park season, several Vermont State Parks will provide good viewing locations for solar eclipse on April 8. These parks include: 

Bomoseen, Boulder Beach, Branbury, Crystal Lake, DAR, Elmore, Mt. Philo, Grand Isle, Knight Point, Lake Shaftsbury, Lake St. Catherine, Niquette Bay, Silver Lake, and Waterbury Center. Address and other general park information is available at www.vtstateparks.com.  The following previously listed state parks are no longer recommended eclipse viewing areas: Emerald Lake, Little River.

Please be aware that park facilities will still be closed for this event. Portable toilets and/or pit/composting toilets will be available. Park staff may be available on a limited basis. 

Parking will be available at each of these locations, but it may be limited depending on the number of visitors. When lots are full, please do not park on the grass or in other areas of the park as resource damage is likely due to soft ground conditions. 

A few things to keep in mind if you plan to visit a Vermont State Park for the eclipse: 

  • Be prepared for inclement weather and dress accordingly. Weather and temperatures in early April can be unpredictable. The temperature may drop significantly during the event. 
  • Bring plenty of water – drinking water will not be available at the parks. 
  • Trails in Vermont are closed. Stay off trails and only park vehicles in designated parking areas. The ground will be very wet/saturated in many locations. Mud season rules will be in place. 
  • Follow park rules while visiting for the eclipse to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.  
  • Dogs must be kept leashed and under control.  
  • Bring a first-aid kit in case of emergency.  
  • Bring a flashlight. 
  • Remember not to look directly at the sun during the eclipse. Come prepared with eclipse glasses for safe viewing. 
  • Travel on some local roadways may be difficult due to spring/mud season conditions. Please plan accordingly. Plan ahead by reviewing current road conditions on New England 511. 
  • If visiting a location near a water body, be aware that ice conditions on lakes and ponds may not be safe for you to walk on. Learn more about ice safety.  
  • Before leaving home, tell someone where you will be viewing the eclipse. 
  • Sign up for VT Emergency Management's VT Eclipse event updates by texting 'VTECLIPSE' to 888-777.
  • If you need help during the Eclipse, call 911 

Please be aware that this list of viewing locations is likely to change as the date nears due to conditions on the ground. Check back for updates. 

Purchase Vermont State Parks eclipse t-shirts and hats in advance of the event. 

Learn more about the Vermont 2024 Eclipse, including viewing safety, travel alerts, and viewing or lodging options.


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