Green Mountain And Finger Lakes National Forests

The Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests each offers visitors many unique natural attractions and experiences.


Park Photo

Photo credit: USDA Forest Service

The Green Mountain National Forest (GMNF) and the Finger Lakes National Forest (FLNF) are Vermont's and New York's only public, federally managed national forests. The GMNF encompasses more than 400,000 acres in southwestern and central Vermont, forming the largest contiguous public land area in the State. Characterized by striking scenery that combines rugged mountain peaks with quintessential Vermont villages, the Forest is an attraction for many visitors. The GMNF signifies a multiple-use ethic through its role of providing ecological and science-based forestry stewardship, clean water, diverse vegetation, high-value, high-quality forest products, economical and educational contributions, and trail-based backcountry recreation. The 16,212-acre FLNF lies on a ridge between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of New York State. Rochester, Syracuse and Binghamton are all within a two-hour drive of the Forest, which is easily accessed from 1-90 and 1-81 and State Route 17. We encourage you to come explore and enjoy its history, natural beauty and many resource uses!

https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/gmfl/home

Wilderness Areas/Wild & Scenic Rivers

Big Branch Wilderness - Named after Big Branch Stream, this area provides a home for wild turkeys, beavers, and moose. 

Breadloaf Wilderness - The largest of the Wildernesses in the Green Mountain National Forest, Breadloaf takes its name from Breadloaf Mountain, the highest point in the area at 3,835 feet.

Bristol Cliffs Wilderness - Bristol Cliffs is Vermont's smallest Wilderness. It takes its name from the overhanging cliffs on the huge rocky slopes within the western portion of the area.

George D. Aiken Wilderness - Although not mountainous, this land of ponds, meadows, and brushy forest is purposely managed without established trails. 

Glastenbury Wilderness - Despite the area's proximity to Bennington, it is quiet and remote.

Joseph Battell Wilderness - The area is a rare ecological gem.

Lye Brook Wilderness - This wilderness is named after Lye Brook, which flows through its western half. 

Peru Peak Wilderness - Brook trout can be found in the numerous ponds and streams.

Invasive Species

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