Smugglers Notch State Park - United States
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About Smugglers Notch State Park
RV quick facts for Smugglers Notch State Park
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Max RV length | Check individual sites at reservation; most trailer sites accommodate rigs up to about 35 ft, some shorter |
| Full hookups | None. No water, sewer, or electric hookups at campsites |
| Dump station | On-site dump station and potable water fill available |
| Road restrictions | Route 108 through the Notch is closed to tractor trailers, buses, and large RVs; Notch road closes seasonally in winter. Approach from the Jeffersonville side |
| Generator hours | Generator use is generally restricted in Vermont State Parks; quiet hours 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. |
| Cell service | Limited to none inside the Notch due to surrounding cliffs |
| Reservation window | Reservations through Vermont State Parks open months in advance; summer and foliage weekends book early |
| Season | Campground typically open late May through mid-October |
Featured RV rentals for Smugglers Notch State Park
Best time to visit Smugglers Notch State Park
Late June through early September offers the most reliable weather, warm days, cool nights, and full campground services. September into early October brings Vermont's famous foliage season, cooler temperatures, and thinner crowds, though reservations fill quickly on fall weekends. May and late October are shoulder months with variable weather and limited services. The campground is closed during winter and mud season.
Campground closed; Route 108 through the Notch closed for winter
Campground closed; Notch road closed
Campground closed; mud season
Campground closed; Notch road typically reopens late April or early May
Campground usually opens around late May; cool nights
Black flies early in the month; bring repellent
Peak season; reserve well in advance
Peak season; warm days, cool mountain nights
Foliage begins late September; popular shoulder month
Campground typically closes mid-October; peak foliage early in the month
Campground closed
Campground closed; Notch road closed for winter
Things to do at Smugglers Notch State Park
- Smugglers Notch Scenic Overlook Easy
The Notch overlook is a roadside pull-off along Route 108 offering views of the dramatic 1,000-foot cliffs, hanging boulders, and talus slopes that define the pass. Interpretive signs explain the geology, historic smuggling routes, and rare alpine plants. Parking suits passenger vehicles and small rigs; large RVs should avoid the Notch road entirely.
- Bingham Falls Moderate
Bingham Falls is a short but steep trail leading to a multi-tier waterfall and gorge on the Stowe side of the Notch. The round-trip hike is under a mile but includes rocky, root-laden descents to the pools. Trailhead parking is small and not suited to large RVs.
- Sterling Pond Trail Strenuous
Sterling Pond Trail climbs from the top of the Notch to one of the highest alpine ponds in Vermont, on the Long Trail. The hike is about 2.5 miles round trip with a steep, rocky ascent gaining roughly 1,000 feet. Expect cool temperatures and strong winds at the pond.
- Long Trail Access Strenuous
The Long Trail, the oldest long-distance footpath in the United States, crosses Route 108 at the height of the Notch. Hikers can use this access for day trips toward Mount Mansfield to the south or Madonna Peak and Sterling Pond to the north. Plan for rugged, rocky terrain.
- Elephant Head Overlook Moderate
Elephant Head is a cliff-top viewpoint overlooking the Notch from the north rim. The out-and-back hike via the Long Trail and Elephant Head spur is about 2 miles with a steady climb through spruce-fir forest. The summit provides a top-down view of the pass and Sterling Pond.
- Mount Mansfield State Forest Exploration Strenuous
The park borders Mount Mansfield State Forest, home to Vermont's highest peak at 4,393 feet. Trails such as Hellbrook, Laura Cowles, and the Sunset Ridge Trail give access to the alpine ridgeline. Hikers should be prepared for exposed weather and protect fragile alpine vegetation by staying on marked rock.
- Picnicking and Brook Exploration at the Campground EasyRV parking available
The day-use area near the park entrance offers picnic tables, a small pavilion, and easy access to Notch Brook for wading and cooling off. It is a good base for families with young children and for RV guests who want low-effort recreation close to their site.
Top Hosts near VT, United States
The Rv worked out perfectly! This was our first experience! The host was helpful and immediately responsive to any questions. Unit was clean, well maintained and well appointed. Thank you Tim. We hope you will rent to us again.
Janet G. - Aug 2023
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RV Rentals Smugglers Notch State Park
Smugglers Notch State Park, VT, United States
How to get to Smugglers Notch State Park
The park is about 30 miles east of Burlington (roughly a 45 minute drive) and about 10 miles north of Stowe village via Route 108. Critical for RV travelers: Route 108 through Smugglers Notch itself, between the park and Stowe, is extremely narrow with tight switchbacks and is legally closed to tractor trailers, buses, and large RVs year-round, and the Notch road closes entirely in winter. RVs should approach from the Jeffersonville (north) side via Route 15 and Route 108, not from Stowe over the Notch. The nearest major airport for fly-and-rent travelers is Burlington International Airport (BTV).
RVezy vs. Traditional RV rental
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Traditional RV rental
- Limited fleet from a rental company
- Exact RV not guaranteed
- Pickup only at retail locations
- Fewer RV types and less availability