Throughout the Green Mountain State, extensive networks of picturesque trails snake through forests, valleys, and majestic mountains, offering unparalleled access to Vermont’ s gorgeous wilderness. Since its founding in 1910, the Green Mountain Club( GMC) has proudly served as the dedicated guardian of Vermont’ s hiking trails and backcountry paths. Through its meticulous stewardship of the Long Trail— the nation’ s oldest long-distance hiking path— and extensive network of associated trails, GMC connects novice and seasoned hikers alike to Vermont’ s natural resources. GMC’ s welcoming visitor centers and rustic rental cabins serve as consummate gateways to the most wild and beautiful places in Vermont, inviting explorers of all skill and experience levels to immerse themselves deeply in the natural beauty of the
VISITOR CENTERS AND CABINS
Green Mountain State. In the weeks leading up to the peak summer hiking season, we at VERMONT Magazine partnered with the staff of the GMC to offer a closer look at their visitor centers, rustic rental cabins, and programmatic offerings, providing a curated overview of the myriad ways that GMC brings both visitors and lifelong Vermonters closer to nature.
Main Visitor Center Waterbury Center
Nestled between Waterbury and Stowe on scenic Route 100, the GMC Visitor Center is more than just a place to gather maps and information— it’ s a comprehensive outdoor recreation hub dedicated to enhancing every Vermont visitor’ s hiking experience. The center itself is housed in a beautifully designed timber-frame building, which is constructed from sustainably-harvested local wood. Its architecture exemplifies GMC’ s commitment to environmental stewardship, featuring solar photovoltaic panels, biomass heating, composting toilets, and energy-efficient lighting, proudly generating 100 % of its energy onsite.
Emily Mosher, GMC Visitor Services Manager, emphasizes the personalized nature of their services:“ Our staff at the Visitor Center in Waterbury are experienced hikers who specialize in offering customized hiking recommendations tailored to each visitor’ s interests and skill levels.” To that end, the Waterbury Visitor Center also stocks detailed hiking guides, maps, and GMC-branded outdoor gear. It also provides essential gear, such as bear canisters, which are available for lending to hikers venturing into the backcountry. Furthermore, it serves as a vibrant educational haven, regularly hosting workshops and classes that range from Backpacking 101 to Wilderness First Aid and Mushroom Foraging. Beyond resources and classes, the Visitor Center is an inviting place to rest and reflect. Visitors can enjoy a scenic picnic overlooking the Green Mountains or stroll along the gentle Short Trail, a perfect introduction to Vermont’ s tranquil wilderness.
Barnes Camp Visitor Center
Smugglers’ Notch
Situated at the historic entrance of Smugglers’ Notch State Park, Barnes Camp Visitor Center is the ideal starting point for exploring Mount Mansfield’ s iconic trails. Originally built in 1927, this charming and historic structure has served as a hiker lodge and dormitory in the past. It now functions as a lively and informative visitor center. According to Mosher, Barnes Camp acts as an invaluable resource for hikers and tourists alike. Staffed by knowledgeable GMC volunteers and Smugglers’ Notch State
Park personnel, Barnes Camp is uniquely positioned to provide visitors with expert trail recommendations and local insights. She adds:“ We not only guide hikers on Mansfield’ s trails but also help visitors connect to the wider recreational and cultural opportunities around Stowe and Smugglers’ Notch.”
Barnes Camp features engaging exhibits about the region’ s unique ecology, flora, and fauna, enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of Vermont’ s natural beauty. The center also serves as a launching point for accessible yet rewarding hikes, such as the Barnes Camp Loop— a gentle trail featuring a scenic boardwalk leading to stunning views of Smugglers’ Notch. As visitor numbers continue to grow, Barnes Camp maintains a warm, community-oriented atmosphere, thanks largely to the dedicated efforts of local volunteers.“ Our volunteers are crucial,” Mosher notes.“ Their passion and dedication allow us to keep this historic site thriving.” Together, the Green Mountain Club’ s Visitor Centers in Waterbury and Smugglers’ Notch offer vital support, enriching experiences, and welcoming entry points into Vermont’ s remarkable wilderness
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