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Underhill park is within Vermont's 34,000-acre Mount Mansfield State Forest. At the headwaters of Brown's River, at 2,000 feet elevation, the park covers the west slope of the state's highest peak.
Just over the summit ridge is the Stowe ski area, one of North America's first ski resorts.
The elevation and exposure to harsh climatic conditions have produced unusual vegetation along the mountain's summit ridge.
The plants found in the alpine tundra near the summit are rare in New England. They are typically found in the arctic tundra 1,000 miles farther north.
These plants are fragile. If you hike to the summit, please stay on the trail or walk only on exposed rock.
The upper camp area has nine lean-to sites and is reserved for organized groups. In the lower camp area, around the ranger station, there are 11 tent sites and six lean-tos.
The restrooms have cold water and flush toilets, but no showers. Because campers park in the lot and cannot drive the last several yards to their campsites, this park is recommended for tent campers.
RVs or vehicles towing trailers should not attempt the steep three-mile access road.
A large log picnic shelter, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, is available for group functions.
There are four trails to the summit ridge of Mount Mansfield. The Sunset Ridge trail, which ascends three miles to the summit, is the most popular. Vermont's Long Trail traverses the summit ridge and intersects with several trails. Trail maps are available at the ranger station.
Outdoor Activities |
