Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests
Discover Your National Forests
The Green Mountain National Forest and Finger Lakes National Forest are Vermont's and New York's only public, federally managed national forests.
Know Before You Go
Rutland Forest Service Office (231 North Main Street) will operate virtually while the Mendon headquarters is constructed. Please review the press release for more information.
Features
Spreading forest fire education

VERMONT, NOVEMBER 24, 2023—Staff kicked off their “Fire in Our Forests” program for the first time this year, visiting three different schools and introducing over 200 kindergarten to sixth-grade students to northeast fire ecology.
Fighting non-native invasive plants with missing natives

VERMONT, NOVEMBER 2, 2023—While many hands were working to eradicate non-native invasive plants from a stretch along the Batten Kill River, staff and partners were also collecting seed of woody species in the area.
Spotlights
Christmas Tree Permits

The USDA Forest Service welcomes visitors to select and cut a Christmas tree on the Green Mountain National Forest with the purchase of a permit.
Recreating During Hunting Season

Visitors may continue to use their National Forests during hunting seasons but are encouraged to “plan ahead and prepare” accordingly.
Be Weather Wise

Before heading to your National Forest, check the forecast! Check the weather at your current and destination locations. Conditions at the trailhead may differ from your destination.
Be Bear Aware

New York and Vermont are home to black bears. While it is possible to encounter a black bear on the trail, most recreationists never do.