Waterford VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Waterford, Vermont.
1. Kingdom Heritage Trail
REMOTE FOREST ADVENTURE
The Kingdom Heritage Trail traverses approximately 20 miles through the Silvio O. Conte National Wildlife Refuge, offering an immersive experience through working forestland. Hikers can expect moderate to advanced trails as they ascend and descend Bluff, Middle, and Gore Mountains. The trail is known for its remote wilderness character and sweeping vistas of Vermont's pristine northern forests.
2. Mount Hor Trails
LAKE WILLOUGHBY VISTAS
Mount Hor offers a 5.4-mile network of moderate to advanced hiking trails leading to stunning views over Lake Willoughby and Mount Pisgah. The routes wind through forested slopes and culminate at scenic overlooks that are particularly striking in summer and fall. The trail system is popular for both challenging hikes and rewarding panoramic photo opportunities.
3. Bluff Mountain Community Trail
SUMMIT WITH BROAD VIEWS
The Bluff Mountain Community Trail is a 1.2-mile moderate hike bringing visitors to the summit with expansive views of Burke Mountain and East Mountain. The route is suitable for most hikers and is a favorite for its accessibility combined with dramatic scenery. Its short length allows for a quick but satisfying mountain experience.
4. Wheeler Mountain Trail
CLIMB TO ROCKY OUTCROPS
Wheeler Mountain Trail covers 2.2 miles to the summit, offering an easy to moderate hike through forests to rocky ledges with sweeping views. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the seclusion of Wheeler Pond and the option to camp at Hadsel-Mares Camp. The mountaintop is renowned for its unique granite formations and peaceful atmosphere.
5. Old Bridle Path
CLASSIC WHITE MOUNTAINS ASCENT
The Old Bridle Path is a popular route in Franconia Notch State Park leading to the summit of Mount Lafayette. This trail is considered difficult due to its elevation gain and length, rewarding hikers with alpine views across the White Mountains. The route is known for its exposed ridge walks and striking panoramas.
6. Lonesome Lake Trail
MOUNTAIN LAKE ESCAPE
The Lonesome Lake Trail is a moderate 3-mile round trip hike beginning in Franconia Notch State Park and climbing steadily to the picturesque Lonesome Lake. Surrounded by the high peaks of the White Mountains, the lake is a serene spot for a break or a picnic. The trail features gentle switchbacks through mixed woodland and is family-friendly.
7. Mount Garfield Trail
PEAK WITH DISTANT VIEWS
The Mount Garfield Trail spans 10 miles round trip and is rated as moderate to difficult due to its steady ascent to the summit. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Pemigewasset Wilderness and the Presidential Range from the open summit. The trail follows old roads and forest paths, offering a classic New England hiking experience.
8. Mount Ascutney State Park Trails
SCENIC MONADNOCK HIKES
Mount Ascutney offers four main summit trails ranging from 2.7 to 4.6 miles, each ascending through forests and past waterfalls or historic sites. The park's ridgeline provides broad views, and a short side trail leads to an observation tower with a 360-degree panorama. Trail difficulty varies from moderate to strenuous, making it suitable for experienced hikers seeking a rewarding climb.
9. Deer Leap Mountain Trail
VIEWS FROM ROCKY LOOKOUT
The Deer Leap Mountain Trail is a popular 2-mile moderate hike beginning at Gifford Woods State Park, culminating at a striking cliff overlook. The trail follows forested paths before ascending to open ledges with views across the surrounding mountains. Deer Leap offers a rewarding outing for hikers of various skill levels, especially during foliage season.
10. Bingham Falls Trail
WATERFALL IN WOODLAND GORGE
Bingham Falls Trail is a short, moderate 0.5-mile hike providing access to a scenic waterfall nestled in a lush, rocky gorge. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for families, with the highlight being the turquoise waters and dramatic stone formations at the base of the falls. This hike is a favorite summer stop for its beauty and opportunity to cool off by the cascading water.