Roots School is based in East Calais, Vermont at the top of a long broad west facing ridge. The Worcester Range and Camels Hump command the view as the land drops to a rolling vista of central Vermont. The terrain itself is varied, and offers northern hardwood forests, evergreen stands, beaver ponds, and pasture, as the land rolls towards a series of springs and streams.

Many lessons in tracking may be found as whitetails, moose, black bear, fishers, bobcats, porcupine, coyotes, foxes, mink, ermine, snowshoe hare, wild turkey, and ruffled grouse, are commonly seen and tracked on the land. Often times we are also lucky enough to catch a hawk circling the pasture and to hear the barred owls remarkable calls in the darkness of night.

We see this land as a blessing to ourselves and our students, for to learn survival, tracking, and awareness, the Earth itself must be our greatest teacher. The diversity of plants, trees, and animals make the Ridge an ideal place to study and grow. As our school develops, we continue to build a relationship to this land, as do our students with whom we are always excited to share the experience of this place.

Camping at Roots

Roots School offers both overnight courses as well as the opportunity to camp on location at classes not deemed to be overnight. Camping facilities are rustic, limited to tent and tarp set up locations, outhouses, and an outdoor kitchen area with bear boxes. In the winter months, people can stay in the warm and dry yurt. Water is always available either from the well or the spring.

For overnight classes camping is provided. For students wishing to spend the night before, during, or after course days in order for travel plans to work out, there is a small fee of $5 dollars a night per site. Parking is available for the duration of your stay.