Salisbury VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Salisbury, Vermont.
1. Falls of Lana
CASCADING MOUNTAIN WATERS
Falls of Lana is a popular trail in Branbury State Park that leads to a series of cascading falls carved out of rock. The trail offers a moderate hiking experience suitable for most skill levels, with stunning views of the water formations along the way. Hikers can enjoy the natural beauty of the western slopes of the Green Mountains while exploring this scenic waterfall trail.
2. Rattlesnake Point
PANORAMIC LAKE VIEWS
Rattlesnake Point is a hiking destination near Lake Dunmore that features breeding peregrine falcons and spectacular panoramic views. The trail offers a moderate challenge as it climbs to an overlook with sweeping vistas of Lake Dunmore and the surrounding landscape. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to potentially spot peregrine falcons in their natural habitat while enjoying the scenic overlook.
3. Silver Lake Trail
MOUNTAIN LAKE ESCAPE
Silver Lake Trail takes hikers to a small, scenic mountain lake nestled in the Green Mountains. The trail forms part of a larger network that includes the Leicester Hollow and Chandler Ridge trails, offering various route options for different experience levels. Hikers can enjoy the peaceful lake setting, surrounded by forest and mountain terrain, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
4. Leicester Hollow/Chandler Ridge Loop
CHALLENGING FOREST CIRCUIT
The Leicester Hollow/Chandler Ridge Loop is a substantial 10.8-mile trail circuit near Salisbury that traverses diverse forest terrain. This challenging loop takes hikers through varied landscapes, connecting with Silver Lake and offering multiple scenic viewpoints along the way. The trail provides a full-day hiking experience with significant elevation changes and rewarding views of the surrounding wilderness.
5. Minnie Baker Trail
STEEP MOUNTAIN ASCENT
The Minnie Baker Trail begins in Leicester off Route 53 and features a steep climb with an 800-foot elevation change. The trail climbs in several challenging pitches before descending toward the Leicester Hollow Trail at 1.2 miles with a notable hairpin turn. Hikers seeking a more strenuous experience will find this trail offers both physical challenge and connection to the broader trail network in the area.
6. Lincoln Gap via Long Trail
MODERATE MOUNTAIN PASS
Lincoln Gap via Long Trail is a moderate 3.2-mile hiking route near Salisbury that follows a section of Vermont's famous Long Trail. The trail offers hikers a taste of Vermont's premier long-distance hiking path, with moderate terrain and beautiful forest surroundings. Hikers can enjoy mountain views and the peaceful atmosphere of the Green Mountains as they traverse this accessible segment of the historic Long Trail.
7. Texas Falls Recreation Area
SCENIC GORGE EXPLORATION
Texas Falls Recreation Area offers a 5-mile trail system with 209 feet of elevation gain, centered around a dramatic waterfall and gorge. A footbridge crosses high above the flume and gorge, providing exceptional viewpoints of the rushing water below. The area features well-maintained trails with wooden railings for safety near the steep drops, making it accessible for hikers seeking both natural beauty and moderate adventure.
8. Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park
DIVERSE TERRAIN EXPLORATION
Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park encompasses over 204 acres of fields, forests, gorges, cliffs, and gardens with an enchanting collection of hiking trails. The park offers a unique hiking experience with various terrains and environments to explore throughout a full day of adventure. Visitors are encouraged to pack a picnic and prepare for a full-day ramble through this diverse landscape that showcases the natural beauty of Vermont's Taconic range.
9. Lake Dunmore Trails
LAKESIDE FOREST PATHS
Lake Dunmore Trails wind through Branbury State Park along the shores of the picturesque Lake Dunmore. The trail network connects to the broader 70-mile system within the 400,000-acre Green Mountain National Forest and 20,000-acre Moosalamoo Recreation Area. Hikers can enjoy lakeside views, forest paths, and access to swimming areas, making it an ideal location for combining hiking with other outdoor recreation.
10. Hedgehog Ridge Trail
EXTENDED RIDGE HIKE
Hedgehog Ridge Trail is a 4.8-mile path that traverses the ridgeline near Salisbury, offering hikers a longer journey through Vermont's forests. The trail features moderate to challenging terrain as it follows the natural contours of the ridge, providing occasional views of the surrounding landscape. Hikers seeking a substantial day hike will appreciate the length and varied terrain of this less-traveled but rewarding trail.