2025 Hunting Season in Vermont: How to Stay Safe in the Woods
Fall in Vermont is magic—the leaves, the crisp air, the perfect hiking temps. But from September through December, the woods are busier than usual. Why? Because hunting season in Vermont is in full swing.
Whether you’re a hunter, a hiker, or just walking your dog, it’s important to know what’s happening in the forests around you. Being aware of Vermont’s hunting dates, times, and safety practices helps keep everyone safe (and keeps your adventure stress-free).
This guide breaks down the 2025 Vermont hunting seasons, hunting times, and safety tips—plus an easy way to make sure you stand out in the woods (hint: it involves our Buck Blaze Orange Bandana Split).
Vermont Hunting Seasons 2025
Knowing when hunters are active is the #1 step to staying safe in the woods. Below are the official dates from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department:
Turkey Season
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April 26 – April 27, 2025: Youth & Novice Weekend
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May 1 – May 31, 2025: Spring Turkey Season
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Oct. 4 – Oct. 24, 2025: Fall Archery (statewide)
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Oct. 25 – Nov. 2, 2025: Shotgun/Archery (WMUs: B, D, G, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, Q)
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Oct. 25 – Nov. 9, 2025: Shotgun/Archery (WMUs: F, K, N)
Black Bear Season
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Sept. 1 – Nov. 14, 2025: Early Season
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Sept. 1 – Nov. 23, 2025: Resident hunters with dogs (by permit)
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Sept. 15 – Nov. 23, 2025: Nonresident hunters with dogs (by permit)
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Nov. 15 – Nov. 23, 2025: Late Season
Deer Season
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Oct. 1 – Nov. 14 & Dec. 1 – 15, 2025: Archery (closed during regular Nov. season)
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Oct. 25 – Oct. 26, 2025: Youth & Novice Weekend
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Oct. 30 – Nov. 2, 2025: Muzzleloader Antlerless (select WMUs, if permits issued)
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Nov. 15 – Nov. 30, 2025: Regular Season
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Dec. 6 – Dec. 14, 2025: Muzzleloader
Moose Season (if permits issued)
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Oct. 1 – Oct. 7, 2025: Archery Only
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Oct. 18 – Oct. 23, 2025: Regular Season
(Source: Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department)
See the website for more information on the rules, regulations and guidelines of hunting, fishing and trapping in Vermont.
Hunting Times in Vermont
Hunters are legally allowed to be out during these times:
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Spring: Half an hour before sunrise to 12:00 noon
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Fall: Half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset
That means your early-morning hikes in the fall might overlap with hunting activity.
Hunting Rules Every Vermonter Should Know
Even if you don’t hunt, knowing the basics helps you understand what’s happening in the woods:
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Hunters must pass a safety course and carry a valid license.
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Hunting on private land requires landowner permission (posted signs need updating every year).
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Public lands are open for hunting.
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Shooting from the road is prohibited.
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Each season has specific rules for tags, bag limits, zones, and permits.
How to Stay Safe in Vermont’s Woods During Hunting Season
If you’re hiking, biking, trail running, or dog-walking this fall, here’s how to stay visible and safe:
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Wear Bright Colors – Blaze orange is best. Our Buck Blaze Orange Bandana Split is lightweight, easy to tie, and perfect for making sure hunters (and other hikers) see you from a distance. It works for you and your pup.
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Skip Dawn Patrol – Avoid the woods at first light in the fall. Midday hikes are safer and give hunters their prime time in the morning.
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Leash & Tag Your Dogs – Add an orange bandana or vest to your dog so they stand out, too.
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Stick to Trails – If you’re nervous about hunters, avoid bushwhacking and stick to marked routes.
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Let Someone Know Your Plans – Text a friend where you’re headed and when you expect to be back.
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Respect Hunters – Don’t confront or interfere. Most are playing by the rules and want a safe season just like you.
Vermont Woods Safety in 2025
Hunting is a way of life in Vermont. Whether you’re hunting, hiking, or just leaf-peeping, the key is awareness and respect. By knowing the 2025 Vermont hunting schedule and gearing up with bright, visible colors (particularly blaze orange) you’ll feel safer and more confident stepping into the woods this fall.
So get out there—breathe in the crisp air, crunch some leaves, and enjoy the trails. Just remember: stay safe, stay seen, and don’t be a d*** about it. 😉
2025 Hunting Seasons
First and foremost - know when hunters are out! Awareness is imperative to woods safety education.
