Driving on Forest Roads
Getting around on National Forest roads is different from driving on most town or state highways as most roads on the National Forest are not paved. Forest Roads vary; some may have portions with gravel and others may be constructed from the native soils in the area. These roads may be infrequently maintained with possible rocks, ruts, washouts, downed trees and encroaching brush.
Here are a few driving tips to keep in mind:
- Only travel on designated roads; off-road vehicle use is prohibited. See Motor Vehicle Use Maps for more information.
- Many forest roads are low-standard, gravel-surfaced, one-lane roads that are not plowed in winter.
- Forest roads with horizontal sign markers are generally suitable for passenger cars.
- Forest roads with vertical sign markers are not recommended for passenger cars and general travel.
- Encounters with logging trucks are possible even on the weekends.
- Obey all gate closures and regulatory signs.
- Be on the alert for animals!
- Avoid following other vehicles closely – the unpaved roads often kick up stones which can chip your windshield.
- Drive carefully at posted speed limits, or if necessary, a lower, reasonable speed for the weather and road conditions. Most of the National Forest roads are gravel and are intended for low-speed travel.
- Wilderness areas are closed to all motorized and mechanized vehicles.
- Respect landowner rights and get permission to travel across private land.
- Driving rules used on town, state or federal highways apply to National Forest roads. Also, specific road closures and restrictions are enforced throughout the National Forest.
Motor Vehicle Use Maps
Motorized travel is restricted to designated roads and trails throughout the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests. Cross-country travel with motorized vehicles, off designated roads, or trails, is not allowed for any reason. Additionally, unlicensed ATVs and trail motorcycles are not allowed on National Forest System roads.
Refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Maps for a list of seasonal and special vehicle designations.
Camping
Roadside camping is allowed next to many forest roads, but vehicles must be parked in designated areas, or adjacent and off the traveled surface of the road. Only existing impacted areas should be used for campsites. Please be courteous to other users and avoid blocking forest roads.
For more information about dispersed or car camping, see “Camping and Cabins.”
Know Before You Go
Cell signals are not reliable on the National Forest, even on state highways. It is important to carry and know how to use a map and compass when visiting.
- National Forests are often remote; emergency assistance may not be readily available.
- Take adequate food, water, first aid supplies, and other equipment appropriate for the conditions and expected weather.
- Let someone know your travel plans before you leave for the forest.
- In an emergency, call 911.
Please refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Maps for a list of seasonal and special vehicle designations. Outside of seasonal closures, some National Forest roads/parking lots may be closed due to construction, extreme weather, or other events making a road impassable or unsafe.
Current known road closures on the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests
Keep in mind that conditions can change quickly, and more recent closures may not yet be listed. It is always best to contact your local Ranger Stations for the most up-to-date closures when planning your forest trips.
The Forest Supervisor may issue Special Orders and Closures that will close or restrict the use of certain areas as needed to protect public safety and natural resources. It is recommended that visitors consult the closure order list and/or check with the District Ranger station to be informed of up-to-date closures. Emergency closure orders will be posted as an “alert” so visitors to the Forest can reasonably be expected to be familiar with them.
Vermont—Green Mountain National Forest Special Orders and Closures
New York—Finger Lakes National Forest Special Orders and Closures