Notes
Bears have been active in this park. Please be prepared to securely stow your food items and trash in your car, or a bear canister.
In 1807, President Thomas Jefferson passed an embargo act forbidding American trade with Great Britain and Canada. This was a severe hardship for northern Vermonters, since Montreal was closer than other markets in the US. Many local people continued illegal trade with Canada, herding cattle and carrying other goods through the Notch. Later, fugitive slaves used the Notch as an escape route to Canada. During the Prohibition years, liquor was smuggled from Canada over the improved road built in 1922. Today, "The Notch" is a recreation hub featuring many trails, including the Long Trail and is popular with rock and ice climbers and tourists. Located at the base of Mt. Mansfield the campground is small and quiet, despite all the surrounding activity.
The famous Smugglers' Notch is a narrow pass through the Green Mountains. Lined with 1,000-foot cliffs, the winding road is closed in winter. In the earlier days, only a footpath and trail for horses existed here. Starting at the Barnes Camp Visitor Center, the 3.5-mile long scenic highway brings visitors though a steep and winding pass filled with beautiful vistas and recreational opportunities.
Excellent camping, hiking and mountain biking. Nature and interpretive programs are available.
20 tent sites, 14 lean-tos, restrooms with flush toilets, hot and cold running water and coin-operated showers. Drinking water is available throughout the park. There are no day use facilities in the campground but are located elsewhere throughout the Notch. Most campsites are walk-in and not accessible by vehicle. For this reason, as well as the narrowness of the Notch Road, there are very few spots at the park that can accommodate RVs. No camping in or around function room. Camping on designated campsites only.
Stowe Mountain Resort gondolas, Zip Tours and Treetop Adventures, Trapp Family Lodge, The Alchemist Brewery, Vermont Ski Museum, Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory
Park Address: 6443 Mountain RD, Stowe, VT 05672