Woodford VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Woodford, Vermont.
1. Woodford State Park Trail
SERENE LAKE LOOP
Woodford State Park Trail offers a 2.7-mile path that loops around Adams Reservoir, providing hikers with beautiful lake views in Vermont's highest elevation state park campground. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for all skill levels, winding through a high elevation spruce/fir/birch forest. Hikers can enjoy the peaceful wilderness setting while exploring the 398-acre park that borders the George Aiken Wilderness Area.
2. Harmon Hill
CHALLENGING APPALACHIAN TRAIL SECTION
Harmon Hill is a 3.3-mile moderately challenging hike on the Appalachian Trail just ten minutes from downtown Bennington. The trail features a grueling climb up iconic stone steps and switchbacks during the first 0.75 miles, with an elevation gain of 975 feet. After the initial climb, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of Bennington nestled at the foot of Mount Anthony in fern-filled meadows.
3. Bald Mountain Trail
GLASTONBURY WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Bald Mountain Trail is a wonderful day hike located in the Glastonbury Wilderness area with the trailhead starting at Harbour Road. The trail offers hikers a moderate challenge through diverse forest landscapes leading to scenic mountain views. Hikers can experience the natural beauty of the Green Mountain National Forest while enjoying this well-maintained trail.
4. Adams Reservoir Trail
HIGH ELEVATION WATER VIEWS
Adams Reservoir Trail winds around the picturesque reservoir at an elevation of 2,400 feet, the highest of any state park in Vermont. The trail offers easy to moderate hiking through a dense spruce, fir, and birch forest with numerous opportunities to enjoy waterfront views. Hikers can access a small beach area near the dam for swimming or picnicking after their trek.
5. Green Mountain National Forest Trails
DIVERSE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Green Mountain National Forest trails near Woodford offer hikers numerous options for exploring the diverse ecosystems of southern Vermont. These trails range from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes, showcasing Vermont's natural beauty through dense forests, mountain streams, and occasional wildlife sightings. The area is particularly stunning during fall foliage season when the hiking paths are adorned with vibrant autumn colors.
6. Appalachian Trail - Woodford Section
HISTORIC LONG-DISTANCE PATH
The Appalachian Trail section through Woodford offers hikers a chance to experience part of the famous 2,190-mile footpath stretching from Georgia to Maine. This moderately difficult section features varied terrain through lush forests with occasional clearings providing beautiful vistas of the surrounding Green Mountains. Hikers may encounter through-hikers completing the entire trail alongside day-hikers enjoying this historic pathway.
7. Little Pond Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FOREST WALK
Little Pond Trail is a gentle walking path located near Woodford that circles a charming woodland pond, making it ideal for families with children. The trail features minimal elevation change and well-maintained paths through mixed hardwood forests rich with native plant species. Visitors can often spot various waterfowl and woodland creatures while enjoying this peaceful natural setting just minutes from Woodford.
8. Mount Anthony Summit Trail
PANORAMIC VALLEY VIEWS
Mount Anthony Summit Trail takes hikers to the top of one of southern Vermont's most recognizable peaks visible from Woodford. The moderately strenuous trail climbs through diverse forest zones before emerging at a summit offering 360-degree panoramic views of Bennington Valley and surrounding mountains. Hikers are rewarded with spectacular vistas that extend into neighboring Massachusetts and New York on clear days.
9. Glastenbury Mountain Trail
REMOTE WILDERNESS CHALLENGE
Glastenbury Mountain Trail is an ambitious hike near Woodford that leads adventurers to the summit of this remote 3,748-foot peak along the Long Trail. The challenging 22.6-mile round trip traverses rugged terrain through pristine wilderness areas with significant elevation gain. Hikers who complete this demanding trail are rewarded with exceptional views from a historic fire tower at the summit and the satisfaction of conquering one of Vermont's more isolated mountains.
10. White Rocks Recreation Area Trails
SCENIC CLIFF EDGE VIEWS
White Rocks Recreation Area Trails offer several hiking options within a reasonable drive from Woodford, featuring distinctive white quartzite cliffs and boulders. The moderate Ice Beds Trail leads hikers to unique geological formations where ice can sometimes be found even in summer months. Hikers can explore the area's fascinating ecology while enjoying dramatic cliff-top views of the valley below.