Braintree VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Braintree, Vermont.
1. Braintree Mountain Forest Trails
FOUR PEAK MOUNTAIN RANGE
Braintree Mountain Forest offers a vast trail network across 1,547 acres of protected land featuring four peaks rising up to 3,030 feet. The trails range from moderate to advanced difficulty, winding through the Braintree Range with peaks known as Round Top, Twin Peaks, Skidoo, and Braintree Mountain. Hikers can enjoy 360-degree mountain views along an excellent trail system suitable for hiking in summer and snowshoeing in winter.
2. Randolph Trails Network
EXPANSIVE MULTI-USE SYSTEM
The Randolph Trails Network consists of roughly 20 miles of trails through Randolph and Braintree on both private and public land. The network offers a variety of terrain from flowing machine-built loops to old-school single track with technical climbs, scenic views, and rewarding downhills. While popular for mountain biking, these trails also provide excellent hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels suitable for different hiking abilities.
3. The Back 40 Trail
ACCESSIBLE LOOP TRAIL
The Back 40 is a two-mile flowing machine-built loop trail located at Vermont Technical College. This trail offers a more beginner-friendly hiking experience compared to some of the more technical trails in the region. In winter, this trail is groomed for recreational activities, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Riford Brook Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN ACCESS
Riford Brook Trail serves as an access point to the Braintree Mountain Forest trail system via Riford Brook Road. This trail leads hikers into the heart of the forest where they can explore multiple mountain peaks and scenic vistas. The trail offers a moderate challenge with significant elevation gain as it approaches the higher peaks of the Braintree Range.
5. Rochester Mountain Trails
WILDERNESS FOREST EXPERIENCE
Rochester Mountain Trails provide hiking opportunities in the nearby Green Mountain National Forest. These trails offer more remote wilderness experiences with dense forests, streams, and mountain terrain. Hikers can expect various difficulty levels from leisurely walks to challenging summit climbs with rewarding panoramic views of central Vermont.
6. White River Watershed Trails
RIVERSIDE NATURE PATHS
The White River Watershed Trails follow portions of the White River and its tributaries near Braintree and surrounding communities. These trails typically offer easier hiking with gentle grades following the natural contours of the river valley. Hikers can enjoy riparian ecosystems, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the peaceful sounds of flowing water throughout their journey.
7. Catamount Trail Sections
LONG-DISTANCE WINTER ROUTE
Sections of the 300-mile Catamount Trail pass through the Braintree region, providing access to scenic backcountry terrain. While primarily known as a cross-country skiing route in winter, these trail sections offer excellent summer hiking opportunities through diverse Vermont landscapes. The trail segments in this area connect to Braintree Mountain Forest, allowing hikers to create loop options or point-to-point adventures.
8. Thresher Hill Trails
HISTORIC WOODLAND PATHS
Thresher Hill Trails wind through historic woodlands near the Braintree-Randolph border. These moderately difficult trails feature old growth forest, historic stone walls, and seasonal streams. Hikers can experience the rich natural and cultural history of central Vermont while enjoying well-maintained pathways suitable for day hikes.
9. Green Mountain National Forest Trails
VAST FEDERAL WILDERNESS
The nearby Green Mountain National Forest offers numerous hiking trails within a short drive from Braintree. These federally maintained trails range from easy interpretive nature walks to challenging mountain ascents with spectacular views. The trail system provides access to pristine forests, mountain streams, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife habitats throughout all seasons.
10. Brookfield Ridge Trail
ELEVATED RIDGE HIKING
Brookfield Ridge Trail follows a prominent ridge line east of Braintree with views extending across multiple valleys. The trail presents a moderate to difficult hike with some steep sections and rocky terrain requiring careful footing. Hikers are rewarded with exceptional vistas, particularly during fall foliage season when the surrounding landscape transforms into a vibrant palette of colors.