Montgomery VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Montgomery, Vermont.
1. Burnt Mountain
PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Burnt Mountain offers a moderately strenuous half-day hike that spans 2.4 miles each way with an elevation gain of 1,400 feet. The trail takes hikers through the High Ponds Farm Nature Preserve, passing beautiful beaver ponds and lush forests. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Hazen's Notch and the surrounding landscape.
2. Burrows Trail
POPULAR OUT AND BACK
Burrows Trail is a 5.4-mile out and back trail near Montgomery that offers a satisfying hiking experience. The trail features moderate difficulty with steady elevation gain through beautiful Vermont forests. Hikers can enjoy seasonal wildflowers, wildlife sightings, and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
3. Hazen's Notch Trails
EXTENSIVE TRAIL NETWORK
Hazen's Notch Trails comprise a network of 15 miles of maintained paths and woods roads ideal for hiking in summer and fall. The trails vary in difficulty from easy walks to more challenging routes, accommodating hikers of all skill levels. Visitors can experience diverse ecosystems including forests, meadows, and wetlands throughout this beautiful natural area.
4. Sunset Ridge Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN PATH
Sunset Ridge Trail is part of the High Ponds Farm Nature Preserve network in Montgomery, offering hikers beautiful vistas particularly at dusk. The moderately difficult trail winds through diverse terrain including forest paths and open meadows. Hikers can connect to other trails in the system for a customized experience through this peaceful natural setting.
5. High Meadow Trail
WILDFLOWERS AND FOLIAGE
High Meadow Trail provides a serene hiking experience through the beautiful meadows of the High Ponds Farm Nature Preserve. The trail is relatively easy and offers spectacular seasonal highlights including summer wildflowers and stunning fall foliage. Hikers can enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by natural beauty and may even spot local wildlife along the way.
6. Beaver Ponds Trail
WILDLIFE AND WETLANDS
Beaver Ponds Trail takes hikers through wetland ecosystems where active beaver colonies can be observed in their natural habitat. The trail is generally easy to moderate in difficulty and offers unique opportunities for wildlife photography and nature observation. Visitors can witness the impressive engineering work of beavers while enjoying the tranquility of these special aquatic environments.
7. Big Jay
CHALLENGING MOUNTAIN SUMMIT
Big Jay offers a challenging hiking experience for more experienced outdoor enthusiasts near Montgomery. The trail features significant elevation gain and requires good navigation skills as parts may be less maintained than more popular routes. Hikers who reach the summit are rewarded with expansive views of the surrounding Green Mountains and valleys.
8. Lake Carmi State Park
LAKESIDE NATURE TRAILS
Lake Carmi State Park features several hiking trails that wind around Vermont's fourth-largest natural lake just a short drive from Montgomery. The trails are generally easy to moderate and suitable for families, offering beautiful lake views and access to swimming areas. Hikers can observe diverse bird species and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this picturesque state park.
9. Green River Reservoir State Park
REMOTE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Green River Reservoir State Park offers hiking opportunities through undeveloped wilderness around one of Vermont's most pristine bodies of water. The trails range from easy shoreline paths to more challenging routes through the surrounding forests. Hikers can experience remarkable solitude, abundant wildlife, and spectacular mountain views reflected in the clear waters of the reservoir.
10. Mount Elmore Trail
HISTORIC FIRE TOWER SUMMIT
Mount Elmore Trail is a popular hiking destination in Elmore State Park featuring a moderate to difficult climb to a summit with a historic fire tower. The 4.3-mile round trip ascends through northern hardwood forests before reaching open areas with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Hikers who climb the restored fire tower at the summit are treated to spectacular 360-degree vistas of the Green Mountains, Lake Elmore, and beyond.