Sheffield VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Sheffield, Vermont.
1. Perry Holbrook Memorial State Park
PONDS AND CLIFF OVERLOOK
Perry Holbrook Memorial State Park features a scenic trail system that winds past three ponds and up to a dramatic cliffside overlook. The primary trail is moderately strenuous, offering rewarding views from the O'Leary Leap Overlook and peaceful opportunities for contemplation along the wooded paths. The park is especially notable for its tranquil ponds and unique natural communities, making it a highlight for hikers seeking solitude and varied scenery.
2. Holbrook Trail
WOODED POND CIRCUIT
The Holbrook Trail at Perry Holbrook Memorial State Park leads hikers along the shorelines of three serene ponds, including Round Pond and Long Pond. This moderate loop offers a mix of quiet waterside walking and a steep climb to the park's highest viewpoint. Along the way, hikers enjoy diverse habitats, opportunities for fishing, and restful spots for picnicking.
3. Bluff Mountain Community Trail
SUMMIT VISTA WALK
The Bluff Mountain Community Trail is a 1.2-mile route that ascends steadily to the summit, yielding expansive views of Burke Mountain and East Mountain. This moderate trail is well-suited for most hikers and is especially popular for its panoramic Northeastern Kingdom vistas. The trail traverses pleasant forest and offers a rewarding destination for a relatively short effort.
4. Burke Mountain Trail
FIRE TOWER ADVENTURE
The Burke Mountain Trail climbs to the summit of Burke Mountain, where visitors can ascend a historic fire tower for sweeping views of Willoughby Gap and the surrounding region. Rated moderate, the trail provides both wooded sections and open ledges as it gains elevation. Overnight opportunities are available through lean-to shelters, making it an appealing option for day hikers and backpackers alike.
5. Hawkes Loop
FOREST LOOP RAMBLE
Hawkes Loop is a gentle 4.9-mile trail set in a hand-built network open to both hikers and mountain bikers. Suitable for beginners and families, the loop features gentle grades, forest scenery, and wild berries in season. The multi-use aspect and accessible terrain make it a favorite for a leisurely hike in the Northeast Kingdom.
6. Darling Loop
EASY WOODLAND CIRCUIT
Darling Loop offers an easy-to-moderate 4.9-mile forested route that is ideal for both hiking and biking. This loop is characterized by its smooth, flowing paths and peaceful woodland setting. The route is inviting for novice hikers looking for a low-key outdoor adventure with opportunities to spot seasonal berries.
7. Kingdom Heritage Trail
REMOTE FOREST TRAVERSE
The Kingdom Heritage Trail covers 20 miles through some of the Northeast Kingdom's wildest landscapes, connecting Island Pond to Lewis Pond Overlook. This moderate-to-advanced long-distance route immerses hikers in a working forest, cresting Bluff, Middle, and Gore Mountains along the way. The trail is a unique opportunity to experience conserved forestland and striking wilderness vistas.
8. Galehead Hut Loop
ALPINE FOREST CIRCUIT
The Galehead Hut Loop offers a challenging 28.3-mile journey through the rugged landscapes of the White Mountain National Forest, not far from Sheffield. Experienced hikers tackle steep ascents and rocky paths while enjoying stunning alpine views and the chance to rest at an Appalachian Mountain Club hut. This trail is best suited to seasoned backpackers seeking a multi-day adventure in classic New England wilderness.
9. Silvio O. Conte National Wildlife Refuge Trails
WILDLIFE REFUGE PATHWAYS
Trails in the Silvio O. Conte National Wildlife Refuge provide varied hiking experiences through protected forestland in the Northeast Kingdom. The routes range from easy to moderate and wind through rich wildlife habitats, offering excellent birdwatching and nature observation. The refuge is celebrated for its commitment to conservation and immersive outdoor experiences.
10. Lamoille Valley Rail Trail
MULTI-USE SCENIC PATH
The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is a long, mostly flat multi-use trail traversing the rolling countryside of the Northeast Kingdom. Suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities, the trail offers picturesque views of farmland, forests, and mountains along its converted railbed. Its gentle grade and scenic variety make it a favorite for both short outings and longer explorations.