Berkshire VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Berkshire, Vermont.
1. Baker Pond Trail
PEACEFUL FOREST LOOP
Baker Pond Trail offers a gentle, scenic walk through mixed hardwood forests and circles the quiet Baker Pond. This easy loop is suited for most ability levels and provides a tranquil escape ideal for birdwatching and enjoying native flora. The main highlight is the serene pond view, especially beautiful in the fall foliage season.
2. Jay Peak Summit Trails
ALPINE SUMMIT ADVENTURE
The Jay Peak Summit Trails lead hikers up to one of northern Vermont's tallest peaks, offering panoramic views across the Green Mountains. These challenging trails require stamina and include steep, rocky ascents best suited to experienced hikers. The summit rewards visitors with sweeping vistas into Canada and across Vermont's wild forests.
3. Long Trail – Hazen's Notch
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN PASS
The Long Trail segment at Hazen's Notch traverses rugged ridgelines and lush woodlands, forming part of Vermont's famed Long Trail system. Hikers will face moderate to strenuous terrain with rewarding views of the surrounding notches and valleys. Wildflowers and historical remnants from colonial times add interest along the path.
4. Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail
SCENIC MULTI-USE PATH
The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail stretches for 26 miles and features a mostly flat surface, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. The trail runs through open farmland, riverbanks, and small Vermont villages, providing gentle scenery and a peaceful hiking experience. Highlights include views of the Missisquoi River and chances to spot local wildlife.
5. Prospect Rock Trail
CLIFFTOP PANORAMA HIKE
Prospect Rock Trail climbs steadily through forested hillside before reaching a dramatic overlook with broad vistas across the Lamoille River Valley. This moderate hike is popular for its rewarding views after a short but steep ascent. The clifftop vantage point is especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
6. Mount Mansfield – Sunset Ridge Trail
HIGHEST VERMONT PEAK
Mount Mansfield's Sunset Ridge Trail takes hikers to Vermont's highest summit via an open ridgeline with continuous mountain views. Rated as strenuous, this route appeals to experienced hikers seeking alpine environments and impressive geology. Key highlights include subalpine flora, impressive rock formations, and unmatched summit vistas.
7. Babcock Nature Preserve Trails
EDUCATIONAL NATURE PATHS
The Babcock Nature Preserve features a network of trails through forest and wetland divided into easy and moderate options. Visitors can observe a variety of plant communities and wildlife while following interpretive signs describing the area's ecology. The preserve is ideal for families, students, and anyone interested in local natural history.
8. Devil's Gulch Trail
WILD ROCK FORMATIONS
Devil's Gulch Trail explores a dramatic gorge filled with rugged boulders and unique rock walls, offering a moderately challenging hike. The trail meanders through forested terrain and crosses small creeks, adding some adventure to the journey. The highlight is traversing the deep gulch area, which is especially striking after rain.
9. Eagle Mountain Natural Area
SHADY HILLSIDE WANDER
Eagle Mountain Natural Area's trails wind up a wooded hillside, leading to one of the highest points on Lake Champlain's eastern shore. The terrain is moderately difficult, with some steeper sections, and is well-loved for its wildflowers and potential for eagle sightings. The summit offers partial lake views and peaceful forest surroundings.
10. Bald Mountain Trail
REMOTE PEAK CHALLENGE
Bald Mountain Trail provides a wilderness hiking experience through remote forests, culminating at a fire tower with panoramic views. The out-and-back trail is rated moderate to strenuous and is often less crowded than the state's more famous peaks. The fire tower at the summit allows for breathtaking 360-degree vistas across the northern Green Mountains.