NorthWoods offers a variety of terrain with over 20 kilometers of groomed and backcountry trails for skiing and snowshoeing. Maps are available at the self-serve kiosk and at selected trail locations. The PDF maps on this page are geo-referenced and once downloaded can be used with mobile apps such as Avenza to help you stay on the trail. Donations for trail use help defray trail grooming and maintenance expenses.

NorthWoods Trails

Self-Serve Hours: 7 days a week
Maps & Sign-in at Kiosk
Trail Network: 20 Kilometers, including Classic & Backcountry Trails
Dog-friendly (Please clean up after your pet)

Trail use Suggested Donation:

Daily – $5/Individual, $15/Family

Annual – $35/Individual, $50/Family

Trail Use is free for Residents of Charleston, Island Pond, and Morgan.

Programs & Activities

NorthWoods offers guided programs, lessons, and private events by appointment and activities are appropriate for all ages. Offered by reservation. Email: ski@northwoodscenter.org for more information.

Winter Ecology Ski & Snowshoe Tours: Learn tips for tracking, discover the secrets of life in the cold, practice winter tree identification and explore new terrain. Equipment provided.

Events and Facility Rental: Schedule an event at NorthWoods and reserve our Lodge, Bunkhouse, or Trails for your next private or community gathering. Our facilities are available for weddings, parties, meetings, and guided outings. Access to kitchen, trails, pond, and equipment. Contact us for dates and rates.

Information

Ski and snowshoe equipment rental is available for visiting groups, please contact us for availability.

Call: 802-723-6551 x303
Email: ski@northwoodscenter.org

The NorthWoods campus and trails are open to the public for your enjoyment – please enjoy at your own risk.

See the TrailHub Report (below) for latest conditions

Looking for a skiing or snowshoeing experience near Burke Mountain? When you walk in to the Dashney Nordic Center you’re likely to see some familiar NorthWoods faces! You can purchase a Nordic Season’s Trail Pass here and pick it up at the Dashney cabin.

NorthWoods is partnering with the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (VT FPR) to maintain and groom the winter ski trails in Willoughby State Forest. Access is available from the CCC Road parking lot on Vermont Route 5A in Westmore, just south of Lake Willoughby. Trails are groomed for classic skiing (with set tracks) and skate skiing. All other uses, including snowshoeing, walking, crampons, etc. should avoid the groomed lanes and keep to one side.

Trails

Open 7 days a week, self-serve 

Grooming: Set-track and skate-skiing, 2-3 days per week, weather permitting

Maps and information are available at the trailhead and by clicking here.

Donations: trailhead kiosk, or Donate Here.

Financial support is from both the State of Vermont and public donations. Please make donations on this page, at the trailhead kiosk, or mail to: NWSC, PO Box 220, E. Charleston, VT 05833. Your generosity is appreciated!

Safety Reminder
There is no ski patrol sweep of the trails and conditions can change abruptly, especially in winter. If you encounter an injured skier, carefully note your location and call 9-1-1. There is a rescue center in Westmore and wireless phone service on most trails.

Note for Hikers and Dog-Walkers
Hikers and dog-walkers are encouraged to use the Pisgah Trail, located directly across Route 5A from the kiosk. If you choose to use the groomed trails, please keep dogs on a leash and walk on the opposite side from the set tracks and out of the center skating lane.
Please clean up after your dog on the groomed trail surface and in the parking areas. Thank you for maintaining the quality of the groomed trails.

Skier Responsibility Code

• Be courteous to other visitors
• Maintain control of your speed and direction at all times
• Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible by others
• Obey all signs and posted warnings
• In the event of an injury, please call 9-1-1