Concord VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Concord, Vermont.
1. Mount Pisgah Trail
SCENIC LAKE VIEWS
Mount Pisgah Trail ascends through lush northern hardwood forest and rewards hikers with sweeping vistas of Lake Willoughby from its summit and overlooks. The moderately difficult hike features rugged terrain, steep sections, and rocky ledges but is manageable for most experienced hikers. Its highlights include dramatic cliffside views and frequent opportunities for spotting local wildlife.
2. Weeks State Park
HISTORIC FIRE TOWER
Weeks State Park offers a network of trails traversing wooded slopes and leading up to the summit of Mount Prospect, where hikers will find a historic fire tower and panoramic views of the White Mountains. The trails range from easy to moderate, making them accessible for various skill levels. Highlights include diverse forest scenery, birdwatching, and the chance to explore the historic John Wingate Weeks estate.
3. Maidstone State Park
LAKESIDE FOREST TRAILS
Maidstone State Park's trails meander through dense woods along the shores of Maidstone Lake, offering peaceful woodland walks with lake views. The terrain here is gentle to moderate, welcoming hikers of all abilities. The park's highlights include tranquil lakeside vistas and the opportunity for wildlife sightings, especially birds and small mammals.
4. Franconia Notch State Park
MOUNTAIN PASS ADVENTURE
Franconia Notch State Park features a network of well-known trails, including the steep but rewarding hike up Mount Lafayette via the Old Bridle Path and Falling Waters Trail. Ranging in difficulty from moderate to strenuous, these trails showcase rugged terrain, waterfalls, and sweeping mountain vistas. Notable highlights include the breathtaking view from Franconia Ridge and access to natural wonders like the Flume Gorge.
5. Mount Willard Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SUMMIT
Mount Willard Trail is a relatively short, moderate hike leading to a rocky summit with commanding views over Crawford Notch and the surrounding peaks. The well-maintained trail ascends gradually through beautiful forest before opening to a dramatic overlook. Its accessible length and incredible payoff make it a favorite for families and newer hikers.
6. Underhill State Park
CLIMB TO VERMONT'S PEAK
Underhill State Park forms part of Mount Mansfield State Forest and is the starting point for several trails leading to the summit of Vermont's highest peak, Mount Mansfield. The hikes range from moderate to strenuous, taking adventurers through mixed hardwood forests and up rocky ridges. The major highlight is the panoramic summit view, with scenery stretching across Vermont and into New Hampshire.
7. Tuckerman Ravine Trail
ALPINE RAVINE CHALLENGE
Tuckerman Ravine Trail is a famous and strenuous route ascending Mount Washington, traversing steep slopes and rugged alpine terrain. The hike is best suited for experienced adventurers due to its significant elevation gain and challenging conditions. The highlight is the dramatic glacial cirque of Tuckerman Ravine and the expansive views from the summit.
8. Jim Hill Riverwalk & Lehtinen Park Trail
EASY RIVERSIDE STROLL
Jim Hill Riverwalk & Lehtinen Park Trail offers an easy and pleasant riverside path suitable for beginners and families. The flat, well-marked route follows the river through parkland and open meadows, making it popular for a relaxing nature walk. Highlights include the peaceful river scenery and opportunities for birdwatching along the trail.
9. Broken Ground Trails
WOODLAND EXPLORATION AREA
Broken Ground Trails provide a network of paths winding through forests and wetlands just outside the center of Concord. The trails vary from easy walks to moderate loops and offer a chance to experience diverse natural habitats. This hike is ideal for anyone seeking solitude, wildlife encounters, and quiet woodland scenery.
10. Baldface Circle Trail
RIDGE LOOP ADVENTURE
Baldface Circle Trail is a challenging loop trail traversing the open ledges of South and North Baldface mountains, offering hikers an exhilarating ridge walk. The trail is rated strenuous, with steep rock scrambles and significant elevation gain, rewarding hikers with remarkable 360-degree views. The exposed summit areas provide clear vistas of the White Mountains and surrounding wilderness.