Guilford VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Guilford, Vermont.
1. Weeks Forest Carriage Trail
HISTORIC EASY WOODLAND WALK
The Weeks Forest Carriage Trail is a short, easy-packed dirt trail tracing a historic carriage road once leading to Guilford's mineral springs. Walkers enjoy mature woodlands, streams, wildflowers, and interpretive waypoints highlighting the area's natural and cultural history. Well-marked and level, this trail is suitable for all skill levels and features stone benches for rest and reflection.
2. Fort Dummer State Park Trails
VARIED FOREST LOOP TRAILS
Fort Dummer State Park offers three distinct hiking trails: the easy, wooded Sunrise Trail loop, the gently sloping Sunset Trail with historical farm remains, and the more strenuous Broad Brook Trail descending to a swimming hole. Hikers can explore 1.5 miles of scenic paths through forests and old pastures, with highlights including vistas over the former Fort Dummer site. The trails range from easy to moderate in difficulty and are ideal for short hikes and nature observation.
3. Sweet Pond State Park Trail
SCENIC PONDSIDE LOOP
Sweet Pond State Park features a one-mile loop trail that circumnavigates Sweet Pond, offering tranquil water views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The trail is relatively flat and suitable for hikers of all abilities, making it a great family option. Highlights include serene pond scenery, seasonal wildflowers, and birdwatching along the gentle path.
4. Guilford School Nature Trail
EDUCATIONAL WOODED PATH
The Guilford School Nature Trail is a community-built path meandering through woodlands on private land adjacent to the local school. This easy trail is accessible to the public during school hours or when accompanied by a student, offering a peaceful walk and educational waypoints created by students. With its gentle terrain and interpretive features, it provides a low-impact hike suitable for children and adults.
5. Broad Brook Old Road
HISTORIC WOODLAND PATHWAY
Broad Brook Old Road is an unmarked but easily followed historic route offering a rustic hiking experience through Guilford's woods and pastures. The trail is moderately easy and allows exploration of stone walls, wetland areas, and agricultural landscapes emblematic of southern Vermont. Main highlights include the chance to observe local flora and the tranquil sounds of Broad Brook.
6. Green River Area Trails
RIVERSIDE PEACEFUL WALKS
The Green River and its tributaries offer informal walking and hiking routes beside scenic streams and through lush valley woodlands. These gentle riverside trails are best for leisurely explorations, birdwatching, and soaking in the peaceful countryside. Hikers will enjoy the calm flow of water, wildflower meadows, and shade from stately hardwoods.
7. Weatherhead Hollow Pond Trail
PONDSIDE WILDLIFE VIEWS
Weatherhead Hollow Pond provides a natural setting for informal walking along its banks, where visitors can enjoy tranquil water views and observe local birds and beaver activity. There are informal paths along the shoreline, generally flat and accessible for all abilities. The highlights include opportunities for photography and serene pondside relaxation.
8. Broad Brook Trail
STREAMSIDE STRENUOUS DESCENT
The Broad Brook Trail, part of Fort Dummer State Park, descends steeply from the campground to a popular swimming spot on Broad Brook. This short but challenging trail rewards hikers with a refreshing brook and shaded woodland surroundings. The trail is best suited for those seeking a brief but more strenuous outing.
9. Sunrise Trail
WOODED GENTLE LOOP
Sunrise Trail in Fort Dummer State Park is a nearly one-mile loop featuring gently sloping, wooded terrain on the park's eastern side. The trail offers peaceful forest scenery and a midway vista over the historic Fort Dummer area. It is designed for easy hiking and nature appreciation for all ages.
10. Sunset Trail
HISTORICAL FARM VISTA
Sunset Trail at Fort Dummer State Park is a half-mile loop traversing gently sloping ground with a western vista over the village of Algiers. Hikers encounter remnants of the 1880s Boyden Farm, including stone walls and a small shed, along a pleasant forested path. The trail is suitable for easy walks and those interested in local history.