Bethel VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Bethel, Vermont.
1. Outer Loop Trail
CHALLENGING WOODLAND CIRCUIT
The Outer Loop Trail is a 2-mile multi-use path starting from the Bethel Recreation Area and winding through both softwood and hardwood forests. This trail features a strenuous, switchback ascent and a moderate climb, offering a good challenge for intermediate to advanced hikers. Highlights include scenic woodland views and several intersections with connector trails, making it ideal for those who enjoy exploring a forested terrain.
2. Mid Loop Trail
GENTLE FOREST RIDGE WALK
The Mid Loop Trail traverses a flat ridge and gently descends through town, private, and school lands behind the main campus. Suitable for most ability levels, this trail combines new and old woods roads, showcasing a mix of mature forests and occasional educational areas such as outdoor classrooms. Its easy to moderate difficulty makes it a pleasant choice for families and those seeking a tranquil walk.
3. School to Pool Trail
SHORT CONNECTOR PATH
The School to Pool Trail is a half-mile connector providing access from the Bethel Recreation Area into the hillside forests. Perfect for a quick nature walk, it acts as the gateway to the longer loop trails and features gentle terrain suitable for most hikers. This trail is ideal for a leisurely stroll or as part of a longer circuit through Bethel's trail network.
4. Mount Tom and The Pogue Trail
ICONIC WOODSTOCK LOOP
Mount Tom and The Pogue Trail offers a beautiful loop featuring a moderate climb to panoramic vistas over Woodstock and a tranquil circuit around The Pogue pond. The route is suitable for most hikers, with well-marked paths and gentle elevation changes. The summit rewards visitors with sweeping views and the peaceful pond area is a favorite for reflection and photography.
5. Gifford Woods State Park
OLD GROWTH FOREST STROLL
Gifford Woods State Park offers several trails winding through a rare old-growth forest, with easy to moderately challenging options. Hikers can enjoy spring wildflowers, dense canopies, and scenic brooks along the way. The park is especially renowned in autumn, when its foliage provides a stunning display for trail-goers.
6. Appalachian Trail – Vermont Section
EPIC LONG-DISTANCE ROUTE
The Vermont section of the Appalachian Trail traverses the Green Mountains, offering diverse hiking experiences ranging from gentle walks to strenuous climbs. This renowned trail features dense forests, rustic shelters, and sweeping mountain views, making it suitable for both day hikers and backpackers. Accessibility varies by segment, but many stretches near Bethel provide moderate but rewarding mileage.
7. Allis State Park
HILLTOP VISTA TRAILS
Allis State Park features short but rewarding trails that lead to open hilltops and observation towers with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The easy-to-moderate paths make this park popular for families and casual hikers. Visitors enjoy wildflowers, birdwatching, and the serene picnic areas set among the rolling landscape.
8. Pico Peak Trail
SUMMIT ADVENTURE HIKE
The Pico Peak Trail offers a challenging ascent to one of Vermont's iconic summits, traversing rocky paths and dense forest. The climb is steep in sections, making it best suited for experienced hikers seeking a vigorous workout. Once at the peak, hikers are rewarded with expansive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
9. Moat Mountain Trail
LONG-DISTANCE MOUNTAIN TREK
Moat Mountain Trail is a demanding 9.2-mile trek with significant elevation gain, crossing rugged terrain and offering striking vistas throughout the route. This trail is best suited for seasoned hikers due to its length and grade. The highlights include panoramic summits and the sense of remoteness along the way.
10. Gnome Stairs Trail
WHIMSICAL WATERFALL PATH
Gnome Stairs Trail is a 1.8-mile family-friendly path leading to a unique, small waterfall surrounded by imaginative stone formations. The gentle route is ideal for younger hikers or those seeking a short, scenic outing in the woods. Its playful atmosphere and easy terrain make it a local favorite for exploring with children.