Ascutney State Park

Ascutney State Park is a mountain recreation area in Windsor County spanning more than 3,000 acres with four main trails. These paths wind through dense forest toward the summit and range from easy walks to more demanding hikes.

The park was established in 1935 using New Deal funding during the Great Depression and was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Workers from this program built trails and constructed the mountain parkway that still exists today.

The park has become central to how local people spend their free time outdoors, shaping outdoor traditions in the region for generations. Families and hikers regularly use the trails as part of their weekend and seasonal routines.

The park is open from May through October and is accessible via Vermont Route 44-A, offering the choice to drive near the summit or hike the trails. Visitors should prepare for changing weather and wear sturdy footwear, especially for longer walks on the trails.

The mountain road climbs extremely steeply with a remarkable gradient achieved over a very short distance. This engineering feat from the 1930s still impresses visitors today with its bold construction through the steep terrain.

Location: Windsor County

Inception: 1935

Website: https://vtstateparks.com/ascutney.html

GPS coordinates: 43.44194,-72.43917

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:45