Ripton VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Ripton, Vermont.
1. Robert Frost Interpretive Trail
POETIC NATURE WALK
The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail is a mile-long accessible path in Ripton that wanders through varied landscapes that inspired the famous poet. The trail features two connected loops with several benches along the route where hikers can read Frost's poems posted throughout the path. This easy hike includes elevated boardwalks crossing wetlands and offers a peaceful experience surrounded by Vermont's natural beauty.
2. Long Trail - Sucker Brook
WILDERNESS SINGLETRACK EXPERIENCE
Long Trail - Sucker Brook is a 9-mile blue singletrack trail located near Ripton in the Joseph Battell Wilderness. The trail is rated as moderate difficulty and can be used in both directions for hiking or trail running. Dogs are welcome on this scenic route that showcases Vermont's natural landscape.
3. Allen Mountain
CHALLENGING MOUNTAIN TREK
Allen Mountain trail is an 18-mile out and back path near Ripton that offers a substantial hiking challenge. The trail is rated as difficult, making it suitable for experienced hikers looking for a demanding adventure. Hikers are rewarded with stunning views of Vermont's landscape after completing this strenuous journey.
4. Lincoln Gap via Long Trail
MODERATE MOUNTAIN PATH
Lincoln Gap via Long Trail is a moderate 3.2-mile hiking route accessible from the Ripton area. The trail offers a balanced hiking experience with some elevation gain but remains accessible to most hikers with basic fitness levels. Hikers can enjoy classic Green Mountain scenery and forest environments along this well-maintained section of Vermont's iconic Long Trail.
5. Burrows Trail
SCENIC MODERATE HIKE
Burrows Trail is a moderate 5.4-mile hiking path near Ripton that provides a wonderful outdoor experience. The trail features a gradual ascent through Vermont's forested landscape with rewarding vistas along the way. Hikers will appreciate the well-maintained path and diverse natural environments encountered throughout this half-day adventure.
6. Spirit in Nature Paths
CONTEMPLATIVE FOREST WALKS
Spirit in Nature offers 14 different paths ranging from 1/7th to 1.5 miles in length near Ripton. Each path is designed for contemplative walking with posted sayings along the way to inspire reflection. These accessible trails provide a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in nature while engaging in mindful hiking experiences.
7. Water Tower Trails
ALL-SEASON RECREATION LOOPS
The Water Tower Trails are a series of interconnected loops near Ripton that connect to the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail. Though primarily known as cross-country ski loops in winter, these trails offer pleasant hiking opportunities during the warmer seasons. The varied terrain provides a gentle hiking experience through Vermont's beautiful forests and meadows.
8. Hill Trail
ACCESSIBLE FOREST PATH
Hill Trail is a scenic hiking path located approximately 3 miles from Ripton's center. The trail offers a moderate hiking experience through Vermont's characteristic forested landscape with gentle elevation changes. Hikers can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and diverse flora that make Vermont's woodlands so special.
9. Middle Earth
FANTASY-INSPIRED WOODLAND WALK
Middle Earth is a charming hiking trail located about 3 miles from Ripton in the Joseph Battell Wilderness area. The trail offers a whimsical hiking experience through lush Vermont forests that might remind visitors of Tolkien's fictional world. Hikers can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and magical quality of this well-maintained woodland path.
10. Bower Trail
SERENE FOREST EXPEDITION
Bower Trail is a peaceful hiking path located approximately 3 miles from Ripton's center. The trail winds through Vermont's beautiful forests, offering hikers a serene nature experience away from crowds. Its moderate difficulty makes it accessible to most hikers while still providing an authentic Green Mountain wilderness experience.