Spruce Cabin
Located at the edge of a red spruce stand with a panoramic view across an upland meadow and excellent views of southern Vermont's mountains.
Occupancy
Sleeps 6
Distance
1.0 miles from the Joy Green Visitor’s Center.
Nearest Water Source
~0.75 mi to Farm Spigots (treat before use)
All water outside the Visitor Center needs treatment before drinking or cooking, including Farm spigots. Natural water sources vary with the seasons—streams may freeze in winter or diminish during summer droughts as part of nature's cycle.
Become a Member & Save 20% on Your Stay
Connect with the land while enjoying meaningful savings on every visit.
For 75 years, Merck Forest & Farmland Center has inspired curiosity, love, and responsibility for natural and working lands. By becoming a member, you'll receive a 20% discount on all cabin rentals and camping experiences while helping sustain this legacy for generations to come.
In 2025, we're celebrating 75 years of connecting people to the land—from the crisp forest air that serves as a natural reset button to the magical moments of discovery along our trails. Your membership helps write the next chapter of this story while honoring the roots that ground us.
Become a member today and be part of a community rooted in history while growing toward a sustainable future—together.
Cabin & Camping FAQ
Whether you're dreaming of starlit nights in a backcountry shelter or wondering what to pack for your forest adventure, we've gathered the answers to help you prepare for a meaningful connection with the land.
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The FarmThis is a short 5-minute walk that is nice for families with small children. At the farm you can visit our animals and see our sap house, have a picnic (picnic tables located across from the sap house), and take in the great views. You can always continue along Old Town Road or Stone Lot Road if you decide you want a longer hike. Rated: Easy hike/walk
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Stone LotThis hike is just under 2 miles. It is a good hike for families. This is a moderate out-and-back hike with great view of Dorset Peak just beyond the farm. Take Old Town Road to Stone Lot Road near the farm buildings. Be sure to visit the American Chestnut Tree project. Rated: Moderate hike
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Birch PondThis hike is 3 miles (approx. 2 hours). This is a mild-to-moderate hike with the toughest section being the up-hill on Old Town Road. Rated: Mild/Moderate Hike
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Silviculture TrailThis hike is a little over 4 miles. The Silviculture Trail is a 2.3-mile self-guided educational trail. It provides a look at forest management. Deer and other wildlife are often spotted here. Take Old Town Road to Silviculture Trail back to Old Town Road. Rated: Moderate hike
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The GallopThis hike is 3 miles or 4 miles depending on the route (approx. 2-3 hours). Take Old Town Road and turn left onto Gallop Road. After a steady climb, you can go right to Lodge Road and follow it to Old Town Road back to the VC. To visit the scenic overlook, stay on Gallop Road until the intersection with Barton Road. The end of the trail is a steep descent to Lodge road. Follow Lodge Road back to Old Town Road. Rated: Moderate/difficult hike
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McCormick TrailThis trail can be made into a 4-mile loop (approx. 1.5 hours). Take Old Town Road to McCormick Trail to Antone Road back to Old Town Road. Rated: Moderate/Difficult hike
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Mount AntoneThis hike is 5 miles (approx. 4 hours). Take Old Town Road to Antone Road (you can take the “Ski Trail” or stay on Antone Road). There are great views from the top looking back at our farm. Rated: Moderate/Difficult hike
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LookoutThis hike is a 6 mile loop (approx. 4+ hours). A work out! You will travel through a beautiful secluded section of the forest. Take Old Town Road to Antone Road to Lookout Road. Rating: Difficult (due to length)