Vermont’s Oldest State Park — Panoramic Lake Champlain & Adirondack Views from a 968-Foot Summit
Mount Philo State Park in Charlotte, Vermont holds the distinction of being Vermont’s oldest state park, established in 1924 when Frances Humphreys donated the land to the state. The park’s 237 acres center on Mount Philo, a modest 968-foot peak that punches far above its weight in terms of views: the summit delivers one of the most spectacular panoramas in Vermont — a sweeping vista across the Champlain Valley to Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains of New York.
What makes Mount Philo special is its accessibility. The summit can be reached by a short-but-steep hiking trail (popular with families) or by driving the CCC-built summit road directly to the top — one of the few drive-to-summit experiences in Vermont. The Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the road, campground, and summit lodge in the 1930s, and the park retains much of that historic character. With just 7 tent sites and 3 lean-tos, the campground is intimate and quiet — the opposite of a crowded resort.
Things to Do
Summit Views
The summit of Mount Philo offers 360-degree panoramic views:
- West: Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountain range in New York
- East: The Green Mountains of Vermont
- Champlain Valley: Farmland, orchards, and the agricultural landscape below
- Sunset viewing: The western exposure makes this one of Vermont’s premier sunset locations
Hiking
The summit trail is a steep but short ascent through mixed hardwood forest. It’s popular with families and hikers of moderate fitness. The trail can be combined with the summit road for a loop experience.
Drive to the Summit
For those who prefer to skip the hike, the CCC-built summit road allows vehicles to drive directly to the top. Picnic areas and the historic lodge are located at the summit.
Camping
The park’s small campground offers an intimate, quiet experience:
- 7 tent sites — wooded, private settings
- 3 lean-to sites — classic Vermont shelter-style camping
- No hookups; pit toilets; no showers
Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summit Trail | ~1.6 mi RT | Moderate (steep) | Hardwood forest; wildflowers; panoramic summit views |
| Summit Road | ~1 mi (drive) | Easy (vehicle) | CCC-built road; picnic areas; summit access without hiking |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | ⭐ Clear summit views; camping; wildflowers; sunset picnics | Small campground fills quickly; reserve early; busy weekends |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | ⭐ PEAK: Champlain Valley foliage from summit — one of Vermont’s best viewpoints | Campground closing; shorter days; bring layers |
| Spring (May–Jun) | Spring wildflowers; greening valley; quiet mornings | Summit road may open late; muddy trails; check conditions |
| Winter | Park closed for the season | Summit road and campground closed; no winter access |
Visitor Tips
- Vermont’s oldest: Established in 1924, Mount Philo is Vermont’s first state park — a historic landmark as well as a scenic one.
- Sunset destination: The western-facing summit is one of Vermont’s premier sunset spots. Bring a picnic dinner and arrive 30–60 minutes before sunset for the best experience.
- Small campground: With only 10 total sites, this is one of Vermont’s most intimate campgrounds. Reserve through the Vermont State Parks website as soon as your dates are set.
- Season: The park is typically open from Memorial Day weekend through the second Monday in October. Check the Vermont State Parks website for exact dates.
- Burlington proximity: Mount Philo is about 20 minutes south of Burlington — an easy day trip or evening sunset visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wildlife & Nature
Mount Philo SP — Vermont’s oldest state park (1924). Peregrine falcons nest on the summit cliffs. Views span Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.
Nearby Attractions
Charlotte — adjacent. Burlington — 15 miles north.
Can you drive to the top of Mount Philo?
Yes — Mount Philo State Park features a CCC-built summit road that allows you to drive directly to the top of the mountain. At the summit, you’ll find picnic areas and panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. The road is typically open when the park is in season (Memorial Day through early October). You can also hike to the summit via the approximately 1.6-mile round-trip trail.
Is Mount Philo the oldest state park in Vermont?
Yes — Mount Philo State Park, established in 1924, is Vermont’s oldest state park. The land was donated by Frances Humphreys, and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the summit road, campground, and lodge in the 1930s. Much of the CCC-era character remains intact today.
Last updated: April 2026
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Kingsland Bay State Park (a short drive away) and Button Bay State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Mount Philo State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed at all Vermont State Parks campgrounds and on trails unless otherwise posted, but are not permitted on beaches or in most picnic areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash shorter than 10 ft required (or pet safely confined) at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on beaches; limited exceptions let pets use the far side of the beach away from swim areas at Branbury, Lake Shaftsbury and Silver Lake
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are permitted in designated pet-friendly cabins only (full list on the Vermont State Parks cabins page); cottages do not allow pets
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets allowed in picnic areas at Allis, Camp Plymouth, Elmore, Kill Kare, Knight Point, Lake Shaftsbury, Mt. Philo, Osmore Pond and Owl's Head; at Camp Plymouth pets may swim only at the cartop boat launch; current rabies vaccination expected
Are dogs allowed at Mount Philo State Park?
Pets are allowed at all Vermont State Parks campgrounds and on trails unless otherwise posted, but are not permitted on beaches or in most picnic areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via vtstateparks.com. More: Vermont state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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