There’s only one National Park in Vermont, and it just happens to be right here in Woodstock. Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park is the perfect example of history, conservation, and the signature natural beauty Vermont is known for. You’ll experience an enduring connection to the land across Vermont, evident in the state’s dedicated farmers, artists, and artisans.
This enduring connection to the land is partly responsible for Vermont’s near obsession with locally sourced and crafted items, not to mention its focus on living a much more laid-back, traditional life than many surrounding New England States. Vermonters are proud of their way of life and how it keeps us connected to the land, shared history, and our communities. This legacy has never been more evident than at Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park.
The Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park is so much more than a place to stretch your legs and enjoy a long afternoon hike up to The Pogue or the top of Mt. Tom. The Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park is unique in its storytelling. The park stands as a beautiful reminder of Vermont’s long-held principles of conservation and land stewardship over time – and it’s the only National Park in the country with this focus. Of course, hiking and exploring the National Park is just one of the many great things to do in Woodstock, VT – and we hope you’ll consider booking a room at our top-rated Woodstock lodging while you’re here.
Our historic Inn offers a sophisticated getaway with well-appointed guest rooms, detail-oriented hospitality, and an exquisite culinary experience. Spend your day exploring downtown Woodstock, hiking in the hills above town, or lounging on our scenic grounds with a handcrafted cocktail or other beverage, and let yourself unwind in a way you can’t do at home. Our Woodstock, Vermont lodging is waiting. Book your room today!
Hike at Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park
Exploring the enduring legacy of Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park is one of the most treasured things to do in Woodstock—and for good reason. This protected land, which became a National Park in 1992, historically belongs to the Abenaki People. Today, the Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park is named for the families who heralded this land through its many iterations and generations, conserving it as a vital piece of Vermont’s history.
The first of these names belongs to George Perkins Marsh, who grew up on this property and later became one of the country’s first environmental thinkers and an early conservationist. Later, Frederick Billings moved onto the land and, as a conservationist, established one of the most progressive dairy farms in the state. He also took special care in managing the existing forests on and around the farm. Later, his granddaughter, Mary French Rockefeller, and her husband, Laurance S. Rockefeller, continued these practices.
Eventually, they also established the Billings Farm & Museum in 1983 to interpret and further protect Vermont’s rural life and this property’s agricultural history. Ultimately, this long span of dedication to preserving the land and a way of life exemplifies much of what Vermont stands for. Enshrining this example of land stewardship was a first in establishing a National Park, and this uniqueness makes an afternoon at the Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park so special.
Though you can’t separate the history of this park from your time spent here, you’ll also find the hiking trails that lead you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Vermont. Stroll through stands of centuries-old trees, walk by historic covered bridges and meandering stone walls, and enjoy the Park’s verdant, pastoral setting. Hiking is one of the most popular things to do at the Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park – particularly for those who want to challenge themselves to the top of Mt. Tom.
The Pogue and South Peak Trail that leads to the top of Mount Tom is one of the most popular, coming in at just over 4 miles. The hike is relatively gentle and considered a moderate trek, but the scenery you’ll encounter is more than worth the time and effort you’ll expend. As you hike along the trail, you’ll first encounter The Pogue, a beautiful pond with a fantastic spot for bird and wildlife watching. As you continue on your way, you’ll eventually reach the peak of Mount Tom, where you’ll enjoy commanding views over Woodstock and the surrounding rural land.
After you’ve hiked the trails at the Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park, we hope you’ll take the time to explore the grounds here further. More things worth seeing here include guided tours of the Mansions, with its stunning Tiffany glass windows, beautifully detailed woodwork, an outstanding collection of Hudson River School artwork, and the mansion’s gorgeous gardens and grounds. The gardens include an azalea and rhododendron garden, a rock garden, a cutting garden, a hemlock hedgerow, a dense stand of Norway spruce, and more. Finally, don’t miss your chance to pet the animals and learn more about the history of this vital land at the Billings Farm and Museum.
The Best Upscale Woodstock, Vermont Lodging
Whether you crave restorative time in nature at places like Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Park or relaxed afternoons driving through the scenic countryside or browsing the shops in the quaint Village of Woodstock, there’s no better place to stay than our upscale Woodstock lodging. Our boutique hotel offers a guest experience that is second to none. From the elegant and well-appointed guest rooms to our expansive and carefully manicured acreage, the Jackson House Inn truly stands out as the best lodging in Woodstock.
We offer eleven total guest rooms, each designed with your comfort in mind and outfitted with a broad range of fine amenities. Tucked into the guest experience are things like luxurious Frette linens with Anichini coverlets and pillows, local bath and body products from Whisper Hill in Quechee, an indulgent turndown service, Red Kite caramels as a delightful welcoming treat, gas fireplaces in some suites, and so much more.
Our most popular guest amenity, though, comes in the morning. Our signature breakfast is one of the many highlights you’ll experience while a guest at our Woodstock lodging. Our breakfasts are a tantalizing multi-course treat for your senses, featuring organic and local products. For relaxed afternoons at the Inn, we also offer a rare onsite tavern where you can enjoy a curated collection of wine and craft beer or a handcrafted cocktail in the afternoon. Of course, you’re also welcome to enjoy these beverages by the firepits or elsewhere on the grounds.
If you’re ready to treat yourself to an unforgettable getaway and experience the most coveted lodging in Vermont, book a room at our stunning boutique hotel today!
