Smugglers Notch is well known as a natural wonder with some of the most breathtaking scenery in Vermont. It is also a playground for skiers, hikers, photographers, and many others. But before it became a popular spot for recreation, this area was a notorious and dangerous illegal trade route through the mountains of the Green Mountain State.
Smugglers Notch is a mountain pass in Lamoille County. It passes between Mount Mansfield, the highest peak of the Green Mountains, and the Sterling Range and Spruce Peak.
The winding road that pases through the area is lined with cliffs up to 1,000 feet tall. It is closed in the wintertime. But in much earlier days only a rugged footpath existed.
In 1807, President Thomas Jefferson passed an Embargo Act. It prohibited the United States from trading with either England or Canada. This action severely impacted Vermonters.
Northern Vermont traded heavily with Canada since it was closer than most U.S. cities. Once the act was passed, many citizens continued this illegal trade practice out of necessity.
Vermonters would use the mountain pass to secretly take goods to Canada. They carried everything on their backs or perhaps used a horse or a donkey to wind through the rough territory. Often the smugglers would hide out in caves while taking this dangerous journey.
Fugitive slaves would also use the mountain pass traversing the unfriendly territory to make their way secretly to Canada.
In 1922, the path was improved to accommodate automobiles. This opened up the opportunity for bootlegging liquor during the years of Prohibition.
Did you know the backstory of Smugglers Notch? Vermont is loaded with history and unique places. This remarkable bridge is another place that has a unique story.
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