Lake Elmore

For dining near Lake Elmore, Doc Ponds in Stowe is a popular choice, offering American fare and a wide selection of craft beers. It features a cozy atmosphere with a fireplace and patio, making it ideal for both casual meals and special occasions. Another option is Idletyme, known for its brewery and American cuisine, providing a lively dining experience. For those seeking more traditional pub fare, Burt's Irish Pub offers a warm and welcoming environment with karaoke nights. Piecasso is another local favorite, serving pizza and Italian dishes in a vibrant setting. Lastly, Harrison's Restaurant offers a more upscale dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.

For accommodations near Lake Elmore, the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort is a standout option, offering an Austrian-style mountain resort experience with multiple pools and dining options. It's located in Stowe, just a short drive from Elmore. Another choice is the Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, which provides a range of amenities including a spa and outdoor activities. The Topnotch Resort is also nearby, offering luxurious accommodations and a variety of recreational activities. For a more budget-friendly option, the Stowe Motel & Snowdrift provides a casual and convenient stay. Lastly, the Timberholm Inn offers a cozy, family-run atmosphere.

Elmore State Park offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park features a large sandy beach with a designated swimming area, a CCC-built beach house that includes restrooms, changing rooms, and a concession stand selling snacks and park merchandise. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and rowboats from the beach house. The park also includes picnic areas with tables and grills, as well as a picnic pavilion available for rent. Additionally, there are hiking trails leading to the summit of Elmore Mountain, where a fire tower provides panoramic views.

The campground at Elmore State Park offers 44 tent/RV sites and 15 lean-to sites, with two restrooms providing flush toilets and hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available, though there are no hookups for RVs. The park is pet-friendly, except on the beach, and offers stand-up paddleboard rentals during the summer months.

Elmore State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities to suit all interests. Swimming is a popular pastime at the park's large sandy beach, while boating enthusiasts can enjoy the lake with rented canoes, kayaks, or rowboats. Fishing is also available, with species like perch, pike, and panfish common in Lake Elmore. Hikers can explore two trails that lead to the summit of Elmore Mountain, where a fire tower offers stunning views. The park also features volleyball and horseshoe pits, making it a great spot for family gatherings or group outings.

For those interested in water sports, stand-up paddleboarding is available through rentals from the beach house. The park's scenic surroundings and accessible trails make it an ideal location for nature walks and photography. Additionally, the park participates in the Reel Fun Program, which encourages fishing as a fun family activity.

Elmore State Park offers some accessibility features to ensure that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the park. There is an accessible path from the bathhouse down to the beach, suitable for wheelchairs and walkers. However, pets are not allowed on the beach, though they are permitted in other areas of the park. The park's facilities, including restrooms and picnic areas, are generally accessible, but specific accommodations for disabilities may be limited. Visitors with mobility issues should plan ahead and contact park officials for more detailed information on accessibility options.

Parking at Elmore State Park is conveniently located near the beach and campground areas. The park charges fees for both day use and camping, which include access to parking. The parking lots are generally well-maintained and provide easy access to the park's facilities. However, parking capacity may be limited during peak summer months, so visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot. The park does not offer specific parking for oversized vehicles or RVs beyond the standard campsites, so planning ahead is recommended for larger vehicles.

Elmore State Park has a rich history, with its development beginning in the 1930s when local citizens gifted land to the state of Vermont. The Civilian Conservation Corps played a significant role in building many of the park's facilities, including the beach house and hiking trails. The park's fire tower on Elmore Mountain offers breathtaking views and is a popular destination for hikers. Additionally, the park's location in the Worcester Range provides unique geological features and diverse wildlife, making it a fascinating spot for nature enthusiasts.

The town of Elmore, where the park is located, is often referred to as "The Beauty Spot of Vermont," reflecting its natural beauty and charm. The park's seasonal operation from Memorial Day to Columbus Day ensures that visitors can enjoy the area during the best weather conditions.

One of the main attractions at Elmore State Park is the hike to the summit of Elmore Mountain, which features a fire tower offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park's proximity to Stowe, Vermont, also makes it an ideal base for exploring local attractions such as the Stowe Recreation Path, Smugglers' Notch State Park, and the Trapp Family Lodge. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Elmore and the Worcester Range, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

The park itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its CCC-built structures, adding a historical dimension to its natural beauty. The nearby town of Elmore is known for its agricultural and forested landscapes, providing a peaceful and serene environment for visitors.