Franklin VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Franklin, Vermont.
1. Lake Carmi State Park
LAKESIDE NATURE LOOP
Lake Carmi State Park features a pleasant loop trail through mixed forest and along the lakeshore, offering gentle terrain ideal for all levels. The easy trail highlights boardwalks over wetlands and opportunities to spot local wildlife such as birds and waterfowl. Hikers can enjoy scenic lake views and access picnic areas for a relaxing day outdoors.
2. Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE SANCTUARY TRAILS
Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge offers a network of trails through wetlands, woodlands, and along the Missisquoi River, allowing for easy to moderate hikes. The refuge is renowned for birdwatching, especially during migration, and visitors often see bald eagles, herons, and other wildlife. Boardwalks and observation platforms provide excellent vantage points for nature enthusiasts.
3. Burton Island State Park
ISLAND PERIMETER TRAIL
Burton Island State Park features a nearly three-mile perimeter trail that circles the island, blending easy walking with striking views across Lake Champlain. The mostly flat terrain is accessible to most hikers, making it suitable for families. Highlights include beaches, picnic spots, and chances to observe lake birds and stunning sunsets.
4. Big Jay
CHALLENGING SUMMIT CLIMB
Big Jay presents a demanding and rugged trail climb, attracting experienced hikers seeking a challenge. The ascent includes steeper sections and rewarding panoramic views from the summit, especially of the Green Mountains and Canada. Its remote location offers solitude and a true wilderness adventure.
5. Milton Town Forest
FOREST EXPLORATION PATHS
Milton Town Forest offers an easy to moderate trail system that winds through mixed hardwood forest and gentle hills. Well-marked paths give hikers opportunities to see local flora, wildlife, and seasonal wildflowers. The area is popular for its tranquility and accessible trail options.
6. Knight Island State Park
REMOTE ISLAND HIKING
Knight Island State Park provides rustic trails traversing a secluded Lake Champlain island accessible only by boat. The easy to moderate trails meander through forests rich in unique plant life and occasionally lead to quiet shoreline vistas. This park offers a peaceful hiking experience with opportunities for wildlife sightings.
7. Knight Point State Park
PENINSULA WOODLAND WALKS
Knight Point State Park features short, easy woodland trails on the picturesque tip of North Hero Island. Hikers can enjoy tranquil forests, lake breezes, and picnic spots along the shore. The park is especially appealing for families and casual walkers looking for scenic lake views.
8. Belvidere Mountain via the Long Trail
HIGH PEAK ADVENTURE
Belvidere Mountain via the Long Trail is a moderately difficult to challenging hike leading to one of the northernmost peaks on Vermont's Long Trail. The route gains elevation steadily and rewards hikers with panoramic summit views and, on clear days, a look at the fire tower. The trail traverses diverse woodlands, making it popular among serious hikers.
9. Sterling Pond Trail
ALPINE POND HIKE
Sterling Pond Trail climbs steadily through forested terrain before opening up to Vermont's highest alpine pond. The moderate trail is well-traveled and known for its rocky sections and rewarding pond-side views at the top. Hikers often spot beavers, amphibians, and enjoy the peaceful reflective waters.
10. Spruce Peak and Sterling Pond Loop
SUMMIT AND POND CIRCUIT
Spruce Peak and Sterling Pond Loop offers a moderate loop hike that combines summit views from Spruce Peak with the tranquility of Sterling Pond. The route features a mix of forested slopes, alpine meadows, and rocky outcrops. Hikers can expect rewarding vistas and a variety of terrain throughout the journey.