Joseph Battell Wilderness
Joseph Battell Wilderness is a large protected natural area in northern Vermont within the Green Mountain National Forest. The landscape features five mountains exceeding 3000 feet elevation, including Monastery Mountain and Mount Horrid, with Bingo Brook providing clean mountain water through the region.
Joseph Battell donated the land in 1915 with the intention that it remain wild and forested. Middlebury College sold most of the property to the Forest Service in the 1930s and 1950s, which led to its designation as part of the national forest system.
The area is named after Joseph Battell, who believed the land should remain in its natural state for future generations. Today, hikers and anglers come here to experience a landscape where human activity remains minimal and nature takes priority.
There are no marked trails or facilities like restrooms or potable water in the area, so visitors should come well prepared. The terrain is best suited for experienced hikers who can navigate without signs and should bring their own water and supplies.
One of the longest uninterrupted ridgelines in the Green Mountains with no roads or trails running across it passes through this area. The 17 threatened plant and animal species found on Mount Horrid alone reveal this place as a refuge for rare life forms.
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