Green Mountain National Forest

Highlights

Vermont’s big, atmospheric trail country—best for riders who want scale, mountain quiet, and a true backcountry rhythm.

Riding

Once you are in motion, the forest gives you exactly what big-country riders hope for: depth, distance, and a trail day that keeps unfolding. Nearly 100 miles of designated equestrian trails across a vast national forest, plus horse-friendly Forest Service roads and long backcountry connectors. Depending on your route, the day can feel meditative, athletic, or a little of both. It rewards riders who enjoy moving through a landscape that changes as they go—wooded corridors, openings, elevation shifts, and those classic Vermont transitions between road, trail, and forest edge.

Rideable terrain

100 miles

Trailer parking

Trailer-friendly access varies by district and trailhead; riders typically stage from established Forest Service pull-offs, gravel lots, and road-access trailheads tied to approved equestrian routes.

Horse regulations

Ride only on designated horse-friendly trails, roads, and areas open to stock use. Forest guidance notes many equestrian trails are best used June 1 through October 31 and only in suitably dry conditions.

Getting here

Access here depends on choosing the right district and trailhead, and that bit of planning pays off once the forest starts feeling expansive rather than complicated. Trailer-friendly access varies by district and trailhead; riders typically stage from established Forest Service pull-offs, gravel lots, and road-access trailheads tied to approved equestrian routes. For riders traveling with their own horses, a little pre-trip route planning goes a long way. This is one of those Vermont destinations where arriving prepared makes the whole day feel smoother—especially if you are hauling a larger rig or visiting in shoulder-season conditions.

Planning your visit

Best planned by ranger district or specific trail system rather than as a single-point destination. Confirm mud-season closures, hunting seasons, bridge conditions, and where trailer access is currently recommended before arrival. Trail maps and current conditions are worth checking before you leave home. Horse camping is part of the appeal here.

Where to stay

Primitive and developed camping options exist throughout the forest, and nearby inn towns like Manchester, Middlebury, Rochester, and Rutland make it easy to turn a ride into a long, scenic weekend.