Thetford VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Thetford, Vermont.
1. Woods Hill Trail (Thetford Hill State Park)
SCENIC WOODLAND LOOP
The Woods Hill Trail at Thetford Hill State Park offers a pleasant hiking experience through mixed woodlands with gentle elevation changes. This trail is considered easy to moderate and is suitable for hikers of all ages. Visitors are treated to peaceful forest settings and occasional wildlife sightings along the route.
2. Bill Hill Trail
HILLTOP PANORAMIC VIEWS
The Bill Hill Trail in Thetford is known for its open summit, which provides impressive views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is of moderate difficulty, involving a steady climb to reach the hilltop. Hikers enjoy broad vistas and a peaceful natural environment on this relatively short trail.
3. Union Village Dam Trails
RIVER VALLEY WALKS
Union Village Dam offers over five miles of easy trails that wind through river valleys and forested areas. Trails are suitable for families and those looking for a leisurely hike, with wide, well-maintained paths. The area features scenic views of the dam and opportunities for wildlife observation.
4. Ely Mountain Conservation Area
FOREST AND WILDLIFE HAVEN
Ely Mountain Conservation Area encompasses a preserved forest with hiking trails forming a figure-eight loop through old-growth trees and glacial boulders. The trails are easy to moderate and showcase the area's rich ecology, with the possibility of encountering rare species such as the Northern Long-eared Bat. Hikers enjoy quiet woodlands, striking rock formations, and seasonal streams.
5. Quechee State Park
GORGE AND RIVER PATHS
Quechee State Park is famous for its trails that skirt the rim of the dramatic Quechee Gorge, offering excellent views of the deep canyon and the Ottauquechee River below. The network ranges from easy walks to moderate hikes, making it accessible for most visitors. Highlights include the gorge, river overlooks, and peaceful wooded sections.
6. Mt. Moosilauke Glencliff Trail
CHALLENGING ALPINE SUMMIT
The Glencliff Trail on Mt. Moosilauke provides a strenuous ascent through forest and alpine zones to one of the White Mountains' notable peaks. Hikers face a long and steady climb with significant elevation gain, making it suitable for experienced adventurers. The reward is panoramic views from the summit and a chance to experience classic New England mountain terrain.
7. The Pogue and Mount Tom Trail
HISTORIC WOODLAND LOOP
This trail forms a loop that leads hikers around the tranquil Pogue, a man-made pond, and continues to the summit of Mount Tom in Woodstock. The hike is moderate, winding through historic carriage roads and forested hills within the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Main highlights include striking views from Mount Tom and the serene setting of The Pogue.
8. Cardigan Mountain via West Ridge Trail
EXPOSED GRANITE SUMMIT
Cardigan Mountain's West Ridge Trail offers a moderately challenging ascent culminating in a summit with vast, open granite ledges and sweeping views. The trail is popular for its manageable distance and engaging switchbacks. At the top, hikers are rewarded with 360-degree vistas and unique alpine flora.
9. Appalachian Trail (Norwich Section)
ICONIC LONG-DISTANCE PATH
The Appalachian Trail passes through Norwich, offering hikers a section of this renowned long-distance route with rolling terrain and forested landscapes. This moderate section is favored for its accessibility and well-maintained path. Main highlights include serene woods, gentle hills, and the experience of following a legendary trail.
10. Gile Mountain Trail
FIRE TOWER VIEWS
Gile Mountain Trail is a short, moderate hike that leads through forested land to a historic fire tower at the summit. The fire tower offers panoramic views over the Upper Valley region, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The climb is manageable, and the payoff is the sweeping scenery from atop the tower.