Serving people through teamwork
Pickett Hill Guide Service
Located at the foothills of the Green Mountain National Forest in Bennington, Vermont. Pickett Hill Guide Service is here to bring you closer to nature. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or have not once stepped foot into the woods, we promise to provide you with a unique and enriching experience.
(802) 442-2317
Lake Paran Catch and Release Ice Fishing Derby
Annual Ice Fishing Derby held at Lake Paran with cash prizes for largest pike and perch.
Walloomsac River
(seasonal, fishing, swimming, tubing)
The Wallomsac River is on the shallow side as it meanders through Bennington, so while the spot under the Burt Henry Covered Bridge may not be deep enough for adults to swim in, it is perfect for kids or for anyone who just needs to cool off. There is a small parking area near the bridge and a park with a few picnic tables, a grassy field, and some plantings. The Henry Bridge is one of three covered bridges spanning the Walloomsac River in Bennington and North Bennington and the only one with good access to the river below.
34 River Rd
North Bennington, VT 05257
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Burt%20Henry%20Covered%20Bridge/10405034296
Lake Shaftsbury
(swimming, canoe rental, playground, picnic, camp grounds)
Lake Shaftsbury State Park is on an 84-acre parcel surrounding the small but picturesque Lake Shaftsbury. The area operated as a private campground/cabin resort before it became a state park in 1974. It has become a popular park facility in southwestern Vermont.
262 Shaftsbury State Park Rd
Shaftsbury, VT 05262
802-375-9978
Lake Paran
(swimming, fishing, canoe rentals)
Lake Paran is a small lake with great views of the surrounding mountains, and the only swimming spot on our list that has lifeguards on duty in the summer. The lake and surrounding recreational lands are part of a local nonprofit, Paran Recreations, which is dedicated to helping people enjoy the beauty of nature and having healthy fun outdoors! We are also stewards of the Paran watershed working to keep our environment safe and clean for now and the future.
There is a small, sandy beach to relax on, a floating dock, charcoal grills, a bathhouse and pavilion, and a concession stand with the best grilled cheese sandwiches around. Canoes can be rented for $10 per hour.
269 Houghton Street
North Bennington, VT 05257
(802) 442-8457
lakeparan@gmail.com
Fishing
Looking for an escape from the pressures of everyday life? GO FISHING! It’s a close-to-home, stress-relieving getaway and a great way to reconnect with family and friends. Check out all Vermont has to offer for a dose of good old fashioned fun.
Hunting
(Year-round)
Hunting in Vermont is a tradition that extends back before the country’s founding. In fact, Vermont was the first state with constitutional language that protects its citizens’ right to hunt. With the state’s combination of rolling farmland and thick woods, hunting remains popular and a way to put truly fresh local food on the table.
https://vtfishandwildlife.com/hunt
Hunting Preserves near Bennington: https://stepoutside.org/bennington-vt/hunting/
Fishing and Hunting License
https://vtfishandwildlife.com/licenses-and-lotteries/license-center
