Field Trips & Group Programs

Imagine your students' eyes lighting up as they witness maple sap transforming into syrup, follow animal tracks through the forest, or connect with farm animals in their natural setting. At Merck Forest & Farmland Center, we turn Merck Forest's 3,500-acre ecosystem into a living classroom where textbook concepts come alive through hands-on discovery.

Discover the Power of Place-Based Learning

Provide your students with immersive experiences at Merck Forest. Our field trips create meaningful connections to the natural world while supporting your curriculum goals and fostering a sense of wonder that traditional classrooms simply can't contain. From seasonal forest changes to sustainable farming practices, every visit offers fresh perspectives and practical discovery.

Why Teachers Choose Merck Forest & Farmland Center

Real-world application of classroom concepts

Curriculum alignment with Next Generation Science and Common Core standards

Tailored programs for all ages from Pre-K through college

Accessible pricing for schools and classes of all sizes

Expert field educators with specialized training in place-based learning and environmental education

Lasting impressions that students discuss long after the bus ride home

The Farm

This 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
Stone Lot

This 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
Birch Pond

This 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
Silviculture Trail

This 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
The Gallop

This 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
McCormick Trail

This 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
Mount Antone

This 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
Lookout

This 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)

Hands-On Learning Programs for All Ages

Request a Program

Ready to bring your group on an educational adventure at Merck Forest & Farmland Center? Reserve your experience using the booking form below. Our hands-on programs are in high demand, especially during peak spring and fall seasons, so we recommend securing your spot at least 2 weeks in advance.

Have questions before booking? Our education team is happy to help at learn@merckforest.org or 802-394-2578.

Prepare for Your Visit

To ensure a seamless and rewarding field trip experience, please review these essential documents before your visit. Our Group Program Information Packet contains valuable guidance for teachers and chaperones, the Parent Letter template helps communicate important details to families, the Packing List ensures everyone arrives prepared for outdoor learning, and the Arrival Map guides your bus driver directly to our designated drop-off area. Taking time to familiarize yourself with these resources helps create the optimal learning environment for your students from the moment they step onto our grounds.