Rochester VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Rochester, Vermont.
1. Rochester Valley Trails
VARIED MOUNTAIN TERRAIN
The Rochester Valley Trails offer an extensive network spanning nearly 20 miles through the mountainous terrain surrounding the RT 100 valley. Hikers can choose from both challenging and moderate routes, with options for loops, ridge climbs, and scenic valley views. The trail system highlights a blend of classic 'rake and ride' paths and modern machine-built flow trails, making it ideal for adventurous explorers.
2. Thundering Brook Falls Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATERFALL HIKE
Thundering Brook Falls Trail is a short and accessible hike leading to a picturesque waterfall, suitable for all skill levels. The roundtrip distance is only 0.4 miles, making it perfect for families and visitors seeking a quick yet rewarding outdoor experience. The trail features minimal elevation gain and stunning waterfall views, especially vibrant during the spring and fall.
3. White Rocks Ice Beds Trail
UNIQUE GEOLOGICAL FEATURES
The White Rocks Ice Beds Trail offers a 1.6-mile round trip through the Green Mountain National Forest, with gentle elevation and a unique finish at natural ice beds. The trail is considered easy to moderate, making it accessible for most hikers with some woodland navigation. Main highlights include the impressive ice formations and the cooling microclimate, providing an unusual natural phenomenon even in warmer months.
4. Lincoln Gap via Long Trail
LONG TRAIL ADVENTURE
Lincoln Gap via the Long Trail features a rewarding 3.2-mile one-way trek traversing part of Vermont's famed Long Trail in the Green Mountain National Forest. This moderate-to-difficult section challenges hikers with steep climbs and rocky terrain. Visitors are treated to forested landscapes and expansive mountain vistas from the higher elevations.
5. Texas Falls Recreation Area
SCENIC WATERFALL LOOPS
Texas Falls Recreation Area provides a variety of loop trails that meander alongside the stunning Texas Falls and through lush forest. These trails are generally rated as easy to moderate, making them accessible for a wide audience. Main attractions include the cascades, picturesque footbridges, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
6. Appalachian Trail Segment
ICONIC LONG-DISTANCE ROUTE
The Appalachian Trail Segment near Rochester delivers a classic Vermont hiking experience along part of the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail. Hikers can select from various difficulty levels, with options for day hikes or longer backpacking trips. The route highlights dense forests, rugged climbs, and panoramic Green Mountain views.
7. Brandon Gap Trails
HIGH ELEVATION VIEWS
Brandon Gap Trails offer access to the high elevations and ridgelines of the Green Mountains from the Rochester side, with a mix of moderate and challenging ascents. The trail network rewards hikers with breathtaking overlooks and tranquil forest settings. Key highlights include birdwatching and vibrant fall foliage displays.
8. Mount Philo Trail
SUMMIT WITH PANORAMAS
Mount Philo Trail is a 1.9-mile loop that ascends to the summit of Mount Philo, offering impressive views over Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. The hike is considered moderate, with both paved and natural trail options to the top. The summit provides a rewarding vista, particularly popular during sunset.
9. Bald Mountain Trail
PEACEFUL SUMMIT HIKE
Bald Mountain Trail in Rochester presents a moderate hike leading to an open summit with sweeping views of the surrounding valley and peaks. The path winds through serene forests and features gradual elevation gain, making it approachable for intermediate hikers. The bald summit is especially known for its tranquility and stunning mountain scenery.
10. Granville Gulf Reservation Trails
DEEP FOREST OASIS
Granville Gulf Reservation Trails meander through a pristine forested gorge filled with streams, waterfalls, and diverse flora. The trails vary from easy to moderate and offer opportunities to explore Vermont's natural beauty away from the crowds. Highlights include Moss Glen Falls and scenic stretches along the brooks.