Merck Forest Hiking and Camping Guidelines

Updated: Apr 28

Safety Tips for a Wonderful Experience

Dress for the adventure: Layer up for the weather and bring gear that matches the season's mood. Check the forecast before you set out!
Find your way with confidence: Carry a map and compass on your journey. Download our map or use the Avenza Map App on your phone for easy navigation through our beautiful woods.
Fire is your friend: Pack multiple fire starters in waterproof containers—a little preparation means cozy evenings!
Stay hydrated: Bring water or enjoy the adventure of filtering from our pristine streams (marked on your trail map).
Share your journey: Let a friend know your plans and when you'll return—it's part of the adventure planning!
Be wilderness-ready: Our magical forest is wonderfully remote, which means help could take over an hour to arrive if needed. Download our emergency procedures before your visit (they're also posted in each cabin).
Stay connected your way: Cell service plays hide-and-seek here, so consider bringing an emergency beacon for peace of mind. For emergencies, you'll need to contact 911 yourself.
Weather wisdom: Check Weather Underground for "Rupert, VT" before setting out so you know what Mother Nature has planned.
Pack thoughtfully: Bring along first aid supplies and navigation tools for a carefree adventure.

Woodstove warmth: Each cabin has simple instructions for enjoying your cozy heat source. Please shut it down safely when you venture out.
Cooking adventures: Please use your camp stove for culinary creations—the woodstove is just for keeping you toasty!
Firewood magic: We provide wood for heating your cabin. For outdoor campfires, gather fallen branches nearby—it's part of the forest experience!
Keep our forest healthy: Please don't bring outside wood onto our property.
Fire safety: Build fires only in designated fire rings and woodstoves. Candles need to stay far away from our wooden cabins and outhouses.
Close the door behind you: A simple gesture that keeps our cabins and outhouses happy all season long.

Leave no trace: Carry out all your belongings and treasures (including trash)—leave only footprints!
Make it better: Small kindnesses for the next adventurer make our forest even more magical.
Four-legged friends: Dogs are welcome trail companions! Just keep them leashed around the farm and Visitor's Center.
Farm boundaries: Please admire our farm animals from outside the pastures unless you're with our friendly staff.
Foot travel only: Beyond the Visitor's Center, the magic of Merck Forest is best discovered on foot and vehicles are not permitted.
Firearms policy: No firearms at campsites, shelters or cabins, except during rifle and black powder seasons, and only in designated Hunting Zones.
Prepare for wonder: A little planning opens the door to endless discovery and joy in our forest.
And most importantly... create amazing memories! The forest is waiting for you!