Some of our favorite things about Vermont are the impeccably maintained state parks. They provide incredible hiking, camping and day activities, and while some are more popular than others, there are a few that are still some of the best-kept secrets in VT. With its stunning waters, the Emerald Lake State Park in East Dorset is one hidden gem that you’ll want to visit in 2017.

Emerald Lake State Park is named after – you guessed it – Emerald Lake.

Flickr/Rachael Traub The park surrounds this gorgeous 20 acre lake.

The name Emerald Lake came from its emerald green colored water.

Flickr/Rachael Traub The emerald truly shows when it’s viewed from above, but you’ll love how clear the water is when partaking in the lake activities.

The superb quality of the water makes this a popular place for swimming and paddling.

Flickr/Jenica Fishing is another favorite pastime here with yellow perch, small mouth bass and northern pike to name of few you’ll find here.

Emerald Lake State Park is also a favorite place for hikers.

Flickr/Sean Salmon Located near the trails on Dorset Mountain along with both the Long Trail and Appalachian Trails.

This area became well known in the early 19th century for its marble quarries.

Flickr/Sean Salmon Dorset was the site of the first commercial marble quarry to open in the region, and maybe even the whole country!

You’ll still find remains of the quarries here.

Flickr/Sean Salmon During the summer months, cliff jumpers and other daring souls love this area.

Along with the quarries, another unique feature is the North Dorset Cemetery.

Fliickr/Sean Salmon The cemetery has several headstones made of the local marble.

Camping is great here!

Flickr/Jenica You’ll find 67 campsites and 37 lean-tos located on a heavily wooded ridge above the lake.

The pavilion is available for rent, too.

Flickr/Jenica A perfect place for a reunion, wedding or other large gathering.

Put Emerald Lake State Park on your list of great places to see in 2017.

Flickr/Sean Salmon Located at 65 Emerald Lake Lane, East Dorset.

For another VT State Park that’s out of this world, take a look at why we love Smuggler’s Notch with its hiking, caves, waterfalls and even a tree tunnel!

Flickr/Rachael Traub

The park surrounds this gorgeous 20 acre lake.

The emerald truly shows when it’s viewed from above, but you’ll love how clear the water is when partaking in the lake activities.

Flickr/Jenica

Fishing is another favorite pastime here with yellow perch, small mouth bass and northern pike to name of few you’ll find here.

Flickr/Sean Salmon

Located near the trails on Dorset Mountain along with both the Long Trail and Appalachian Trails.

Dorset was the site of the first commercial marble quarry to open in the region, and maybe even the whole country!

During the summer months, cliff jumpers and other daring souls love this area.

Fliickr/Sean Salmon

The cemetery has several headstones made of the local marble.

You’ll find 67 campsites and 37 lean-tos located on a heavily wooded ridge above the lake.

A perfect place for a reunion, wedding or other large gathering.

Located at 65 Emerald Lake Lane, East Dorset.

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