Plan Your Visit

The property is open every day from dawn until dusk, year-round. Come explore our trails, fields, and farm whenever the mood strikes!

The Visitor Center is open 9am to 4pm except for New Year's Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

We’re located at 3270 Route 315 in Rupert, VT (just 10 miles northwest of Manchester). Free parking is available at the Visitor Center parking lot.

In mud season, the driveway, parking lot, and trails can be muddy. It’s a good idea to wear waterproof boots or shoes if you have them.

In winter, bring traction devices like microspikes for ice; many trails are popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Yes! All good pups are welcome on a leash from the parking lot up to and including the farm. Once you are beyond the farm envelope and in the woods, you can let your dogs off-leash.

Please remember to put your dog waste into the dumpster in the parking lot.

Yes! We love seeing riders enjoy the campus. Any trail that has “ROAD” in its name is open to horseback riders. Please refer to the map or contact us in the Visitor Center if you have questions.

Yes! Please look around! Of particular interest would be the small animal barn. (In the spring, please enter quietly, as many of our farm animals are giving birth). The Sap House may also be of interest to you. If you see staff working out and about we are happy to answer your questions!

Bicycles are not permitted on Merck Forest trails. Trails are maintained for hiking, learning, and stewardship activities.

No gates, no fees! Access to the land, trails, and self-guided experiences is free, however donations are welcome, as we are a community-supported organization.

Please consider donating at the Visitor Center or on our website if you can.

Yes! Donors receive unique benefits based on level of support. All gifts make our work possible. We thank you for your support! To see all levels of giving and the benefits associated with each, visit this page.

Thank you for asking! You can support us in many ways:

1. Visit the Make a Gift page and select the giving level right for you here! All gifts support the work we do in stewarding this land and landscape.

2. You can also mail a check to Merck Forest & Farmland Center, PO Box 86, Rupert VT. 05768

3. When you visit, you can drop a donation into the donation box at the Visitor Center.

4. You can also fill out a volunteer form and come get your hands dirty with us!

The Meadow Loop and the Stone Lot road (from the Sap House to the blueberry bushes) are gently graded and well-maintained with gravel, grass, and/or dirt surface.

Strollers and individuals seeking a gentler walk will find these areas accessible. Wheelchairs will have a tough time navigating this landscape.

Not yet. If you have special needs or questions, please call ahead so we can ensure your visit is seamless. You can call us at (802) 394-7836.

Yes! We have nine backcountry cabins and three shelters you can reserve online, as well as designated dispersed camping sites—perfect for folks looking to immerse themselves in the forest.

Advance booking is required for cabins and shelters, and campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Our Visitor Center has restrooms, maps, and a small shop stocked with local crafts, snacks, drinks, and gear.

Picnic tables and outhouses are located around the farm and at each cabin.

Thank you! You can donate by clicking on the button or you can mail a check to our office.

Every gift—large or small—directly supports free access, educational programs, and land stewardship.