Brattleboro VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Brattleboro, Vermont.
1. Retreat Trails
HISTORIC 10-MILE TRAIL NETWORK
Retreat Trails is a 10-mile network of nature trails, footpaths, and carriage roads originally constructed on Brattleboro Retreat land in the 1800s. The trails are suitable for walkers, hikers, bikers, equestrians, Nordic skiers, and snowshoers of varying skill levels. Located on Abenaki homelands, these free public trails provide opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and recreation with a variety of unique areas and connecting pathways.
2. Bonnyvale Environmental Education Center
EDUCATIONAL FOREST PATHWAYS
Bonnyvale Environmental Education Center (BEEC) features 2 miles of trails spread across 100 acres of fields and forest. The trails, accessible from Bonnyvale Road in West Brattleboro, showcase some very large old sugar maples and an abundance of spring ephemeral wildflowers. Hikers can enjoy interpretive trail guides that make walks informative while taking in the sweeping view from Heifer Hill.
3. Sweet Pond State Park
SCENIC POND LOOP
Sweet Pond State Park is located just 9 miles southwest of Brattleboro and features a charming 1.3-mile trail that loops around Sweet Pond. The trail is relatively easy, making it accessible for hikers of various skill levels. Visitors can enjoy beautiful water views throughout their hike and experience the serene natural setting of this wonderful state park.
4. Living Memorial Park Trails
URBAN RECREATION PATHS
Living Memorial Park offers accessible trails within Brattleboro's urban green space. The trails vary in difficulty but generally accommodate beginners and casual hikers looking for a quick nature escape. Hikers can enjoy well-maintained paths that connect with the broader Brattleboro trail system, making it a convenient starting point for longer adventures.
5. West River Trail
RIVERSIDE HISTORICAL PATH
The West River Trail follows the route of the former West River Railroad, offering hikers a peaceful journey along the waterway. The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it perfect for families and casual hikers. Scenic river views, historical markers, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities make this trail a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
6. Fort Dummer State Park
HISTORIC FOREST REFUGE
Fort Dummer State Park offers several hiking trails through 217 acres of forest just outside Brattleboro. The trails range from easy to moderate difficulty and lead hikers past the site of the first permanent European settlement in Vermont. Visitors can enjoy beautiful forest scenery, wildlife viewing, and historical sites while exploring this significant Vermont landmark.
7. Molly Stark State Park
MOUNTAIN SUMMIT TRAILS
Molly Stark State Park provides hikers with access to Mount Olga and its 1.5-mile loop trail to a fire tower summit. The moderate difficulty trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of southern Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire from the 55-foot fire tower at the 2,415-foot summit. The well-maintained path winds through a beautiful northern hardwood forest featuring beech, maple, and birch trees.
8. Pisgah State Park
VAST WILDERNESS NETWORK
Pisgah State Park, just across the border from Brattleboro in New Hampshire, is the largest state park in New Hampshire with over 13,500 acres of wilderness. The park features over 21 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, traversing diverse terrain including seven ponds, numerous wetlands, and four highland ridges. Hikers can experience pristine forest ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and spectacular natural features throughout the extensive trail network.
9. Black Mountain Natural Area
RUGGED FOREST CLIMBS
Black Mountain Natural Area offers challenging trails that lead to impressive views of the Connecticut River Valley. The 3-mile loop trail climbs through mixed hardwood forest to reach the summit at an elevation of 1,280 feet. Hikers will be rewarded with spectacular vistas, interesting geological features, and a true wilderness experience just minutes from Brattleboro.
10. Madame Sherri Forest
ENCHANTING CASTLE RUINS
Madame Sherri Forest is home to the famous castle ruins and offers multiple hiking trails including the Ann Stokes Loop and the connection to the Daniels Mountain Trail. The moderate trails wind through beautiful forest, featuring stone staircases, an arched bridge, and the remnants of Madame Sherri's eccentric summer home. Hikers can enjoy a mix of cultural history and natural beauty as they explore this unique wilderness area located a short drive from Brattleboro.