|
Smugglers Notch is a narrow pass through a mountain with 1,000-foot-high cliffs on either side. In the early days, only a footpath and horse trail existed here.
In 1807, President Thomas Jefferson signed an embargo forbidding trade with Great Britain and Canada.
This was a severe hardship for northern Vermonters because Montreal was their closest market. Many area residents continued illegal trade with Canada, herding cattle and carrying other goods through the notch.
Later, fugitive slaves used this passage as an escape route to Canada. During Prohibition in the 1920s, liquor was smuggled from Canada over the improved road that was built in 1922.
Many species of plants found in Smugglers Notch are endangered and grow nowhere else in Vermont. These plants are alpine species and thrive in the arctic-like conditions of the moist, cold cliffs.
The campground has 21 tent and trailer sites and 14 lean-tos. One of the two rest rooms has hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available, but no hookups.
There are many miles of hiking trails nearby.
Outdoor Activities |
