Plan your visit
Teachers engaged in Park Partnerships are welcomed and encouraged to utilize the park and its resources to enhance their own curriculum. The park is always looking to develop partnerships with new teachers. Please see the Education Activities At the Park and Curriculum pages for examples of how other teachers are working with the park.
To speak with the Park's Education Coordinator and request a Park Visit form, please call 802-457-3368 ext 44.
Logistics
Timing and Fees: The park's buildings are open to the public from May to October; however, school groups are welcome to utilize the park year-round. There is no entrance fee. However, we do ask that you call (802/457-3368 ext. 44) ahead of time to let us know you are coming.
Reservations: Start your planning early! It is always a good idea to call several weeks ahead if you are bringing groups larger than ten visitors. By contacting us ahead of time, you can avoid potential disappointment and delays as well as take full advantage of the resources that the park has to offer.
Parking: You will park in the visitors' lot at the Billings Farm, on the east side of Route 12. Follow the path and cross-walk to MBRNHP on the west side of Route 12. The trailhead parking lot on Prosper Road is an alternative entrance.
Facilities: School groups are welcome to reserve the Forest Center as an indoor space. This state-of-the-art LEED certified building has a large open room that can accommodate 40-50 people. The building also has restroom facilities. Please contact 802/457-3368 to make the reservation.
Map: For a map of the park, please click here.
Resources: The park has a number of educational resources that you can reserve to enhance with your lesson plans. They include sample lesson plans & activities, books, field guides, forestry equipment, documentaries, insect sampling supplies, snowshoes, and more. Seasonal rangers (May-October) are also available to help guide your class through one of the park's regular programs or serve as resource specialists. Topics range from art history to forestry and can be tailored to fit the needs of your curriculum. Please call the park in advance to coordinate logistics and arrange a visit.
Pre and Post Visit ideas: Teachers are welcome to visit and tour the park prior to creating a park-based curricular unit. There are many good resources you can use to familiarize yourself and your classroom with the park before visiting, including: the 30 minute documentary on the park, the film 'From the Hills of Vermont', the park's website, ranger-led tours or classroom visits, and the park's library.
Safety: Be alert for traffic when crossing the roads and in parking areas. Trails may have uneven footing. Swimming, wading and fishing are not allowed in the Pogue. Students should be prepared for any weather condition and bring a backpack that contains: an extra warm layer, a raincoat, a water bottle, and a snack or lunch. There is spotty cell phone service throughout the park.
