Though the temperatures may start to drop, fall is still a great time to go hiking. Enjoy cool weather and beat some of the summer crowds, by venturing to Emerald Lake State Park this fall. From the roadside, you may not notice its beautiful lake hiding in plain sight, but get closer and you’ll be able to see what this natural wonder is all about.
Welcome to Emerald Lake State Park in East Dorset.
Elvis355/TripAdvisor The 430-acre park is a favorite destination amongst hikers, due to the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail being nearby, along with the trails on Dorset Mountain. But with a few smaller trails near the lake, it’s also popular for families and casual hikers.
The park surrounds the 20-acre namesake lake, Emerald Lake.
Amanda Cheng/Google reviews In the summer, it’s a favorite spot for locals and out-of-town visitors to take a dip in its crystal clear waters.
Take the lake trail to see beautiful Emerald Lake at all different angles.
Kristin Safford/TripAdvisor The Lake Trail begins at the beach and follows along the shore of Emerald Lake to its southern end. It’s only .5 miles long, so a relatively easy hike!
Along the trail, you’ll find quieter swim spots.
Marc Bachofner/Google reviews Plenty of amazing views here and fishing is also popular along this trail.
Even in the fall, the lake is still breathtaking.
Phunky Sunshiine/TripAdvisor It may not look as emerald as it does in the summer, but the fall views are still pretty fantastic.
Sometimes the water even looks turquoise.
Lauren Davis/Google reviews During different times of the day and during the summer season, the water may appear more turquoise than emerald.
For majestic views, easy hikes, and a serene setting, head to Emerald Lake State Park.
Amanda Young/Google review In addition to the Lake Trail, the Vista Trail is also popular and offers amazing views of both Emerald Lake and the Taconic Mountains. For those who want to stay the night, there are 66 tent and RV sites as well as 37 lean-to sites.
Have you been to this state park before? Is the short hike worth the beautiful views? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!
Elvis355/TripAdvisor
The 430-acre park is a favorite destination amongst hikers, due to the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail being nearby, along with the trails on Dorset Mountain. But with a few smaller trails near the lake, it’s also popular for families and casual hikers.
Amanda Cheng/Google reviews
In the summer, it’s a favorite spot for locals and out-of-town visitors to take a dip in its crystal clear waters.
Kristin Safford/TripAdvisor
The Lake Trail begins at the beach and follows along the shore of Emerald Lake to its southern end. It’s only .5 miles long, so a relatively easy hike!
Marc Bachofner/Google reviews
Plenty of amazing views here and fishing is also popular along this trail.
Phunky Sunshiine/TripAdvisor
It may not look as emerald as it does in the summer, but the fall views are still pretty fantastic.
Lauren Davis/Google reviews
During different times of the day and during the summer season, the water may appear more turquoise than emerald.
Amanda Young/Google review
In addition to the Lake Trail, the Vista Trail is also popular and offers amazing views of both Emerald Lake and the Taconic Mountains. For those who want to stay the night, there are 66 tent and RV sites as well as 37 lean-to sites.
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Address: 65 Emerald Lake Ln, East Dorset, VT 05253, USA
