Topsham VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Topsham, Vermont.
1. Ricker Pond State Park
WATERFRONT WOODED TRAILS
Ricker Pond State Park features several scenic hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate, many of which meander along the shores and woodlands surrounding Ricker Pond. The trails are suited for families and casual hikers, offering beautiful pond views and opportunities for wildlife observation. Lush forests and tranquil water vistas make this park a favored spot for those looking to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace.
2. Seyon Lodge State Park
REMOTE POND ADVENTURE
Seyon Lodge State Park is known for its peaceful trails circling Noyes Pond, offering varied routes through serene forests and wetlands. The trails are generally easy, making them accessible to most hikers, and are especially popular for birdwatching and photography. The tranquil atmosphere and the reflections on the pond provide a picturesque setting for an easygoing hike.
3. Stillwater State Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKESIDE WALKS
Stillwater State Park offers an array of easy to moderate hiking paths that follow the edges of Lake Groton and branch off into surrounding forests. The main highlights include picturesque lake views, abundant opportunities to spot local wildlife, and well-marked trails suitable for family outings. The shaded woods and waterfront scenery create an inviting backdrop for hikers of all skill levels.
4. Spruce Mountain
SUMMIT FIRE TOWER VIEWS
Spruce Mountain presents a moderately challenging out-and-back trail leading to a historic fire tower at the summit. The route climbs steadily through a mixed hardwood forest, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the Green Mountains and beyond. The fire tower itself offers an iconic vantage point and is a popular destination for both local and visiting outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Kettle Pond State Park
WILDERNESS LOOP TRAILS
Kettle Pond State Park encompasses a network of trails of varying difficulty, with options for both short woodland walks and longer loops around the pond. The highlight of these trails is the peaceful wilderness setting and the chances to spot loons and other wildlife along the water's edge. With its relatively flat terrain, the park is suitable for hikers of most abilities.
6. New Discovery State Park
WOODLAND AND RIDGE TRAILS
New Discovery State Park offers a variety of hiking trails weaving through dense forest and crossing ridges with occasional scenic outlooks. Trails range from easy to moderate, catering to both novice and experienced hikers looking for peaceful surroundings. Hikers enjoy the secluded feel of the woods and the well-maintained paths that connect with other area parks.
7. Smarts Mountain Trail
CHALLENGING ASCENT WITH VIEWS
Smarts Mountain Trail is a strenuous hike that ascends steeply through forested slopes to a summit featuring a fire tower and sweeping views. The trail is best suited for experienced hikers, offering rugged terrain, switchbacks, and rewarding panoramas at the top. Its isolation and elevation make it a sought-after challenge for those looking for a longer, more demanding adventure.
8. Wrights Mountain Trailhead
HILLTOP WOODLAND TRAILS
Wrights Mountain Trailhead offers access to a series of moderate trails that climb through mature forests to scenic overlooks atop Wrights Mountain. The well-marked paths vary in difficulty but are generally manageable for most hikers, with the summit providing excellent views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The area is especially popular in the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
9. Underhill State Park
MOUNTAIN RIDGE CHALLENGES
Underhill State Park is renowned for its network of trails ascending Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont, with routes like the Maple Ridge Trail for more experienced hikers. The terrain ranges from moderate walks to very technical climbs, with ridgeline paths offering sweeping alpine vistas. The variety of trails means hikers can tailor the experience to their ability level.
10. Windmill Hill Ridgeline Trail System
RIDGELINE PEAK TRAVERSES
The Windmill Hill Ridgeline Trail System spans approximately 16 miles along a scenic ridge, connecting several smaller peaks including Putney Mountain and The Pinnacle. The trail is moderately challenging and rewards hikers with open summit views, woodland landscapes, and rock benches for rest. The system features diverse routes that highlight both the ridge's natural beauty and its serene, forested surroundings.