Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests

Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests are located in the northeastern United States. The Green Mountain National Forest is situated in Vermont, while the Finger Lakes National Forest is in New York. Nearby towns to the Green Mountain National Forest include Rutland, Bennington, and Middlebury, Vermont. For the Finger Lakes National Forest, nearby cities include Ithaca, Watkins Glen, and Geneva, New York. The Green Mountain National Forest was established in 1932, following the depletion of the land due to logging and farming. The Finger Lakes National Forest was established later, in 1983, on land that was previously used for agriculture. Both forests were created to restore and preserve the natural environment. Parking facilities in both forests are ample, with numerous designated parking areas. While some areas offer free parking, others may require a fee, especially during peak seasons. Visitors are encouraged to check specific rules and fees for each parking area. The forests are home to diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, and moose in the Green Mountain National Forest. The Finger Lakes National Forest hosts species such as red foxes, beavers, and a variety of bird species. Unique to the area are the peregrine falcons, which have been successfully reintroduced. Flora in these forests includes a mix of hardwoods like maple, oak, and birch, as well as conifers such as spruce and fir. The Green Mountain National Forest is particularly noted for its vibrant fall foliage. Notable features include the Long Trail in Vermont, the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the U.S., and the scenic Seneca and Cayuga Lakes near the Finger Lakes National Forest. Public transportation options are limited. However, regional bus services can bring visitors close to the forests, with car rentals or taxis being the most practical means to reach the park entrances.