West Fairlee VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near West Fairlee, Vermont.
1. Brushwood Community Forest
EXPANSIVE FOREST TRAILS
Brushwood Community Forest in West Fairlee offers an extensive network of interconnected forest roads and trails ideal for both casual hikers and more adventurous explorers. The trails wind through diverse woodlands, providing options for easy walks as well as more challenging hikes, and connect into the greater Fairlee Forest system. The forest is renowned for its tranquility and opportunities to observe local wildlife and native flora.
2. Brushwood Road Trail
MULTI-USE DOUBLETRACK ROUTE
Brushwood Road Trail is a three-mile doubletrack trail accessible in both directions, suitable for hiking, biking, and other non-motorized uses. The route features an 897-foot elevation gain, making it moderately challenging for most visitors. Hikers are treated to peaceful forest surroundings and occasional clearings with views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Cross-Rivendell Trail
SCENIC LONG-DISTANCE HIKE
The Cross-Rivendell Trail stretches for nearly 36 miles from Mount Cube in New Hampshire to Flagpole Hill in Vershire, traversing West Fairlee along the way. This advanced trail includes steep ascents, forest passages, and panoramic views, especially from points like Bald Top Mountain. The route is notable for its variety of terrain and scenic overlooks of the White Mountains and Vermont hills.
4. Fairlee Forest Trails
WOODLAND TRAIL NETWORK
Fairlee Forest provides about 25 miles of hikeable forest roads and trails, connecting seamlessly with West Fairlee's trail system for expansive exploration. The area includes both easy strolls and more strenuous routes, with highlights like scenic overlooks and diverse plant life. The forest is popular among hikers looking for solitude and a natural setting.
5. Echo Mountain Trail
EAGLE CLIFFS OVERLOOK
Echo Mountain Trail is a 1.4-mile hike ascending 440 feet to the Eagle Cliffs overlook, where hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Morey. The moderate trail follows blue and yellow blazes and is well-marked, making navigation straightforward. This route is favored for its accessible distance and memorable vista.
6. Palisades Trail
CLIFFSIDE VISTAS
The Palisades Trail is a short but steep hike of 1.1 miles with an elevation gain of about 400 feet, leading to spectacular views from the Palisades cliffs. This moderate trail is popular for its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Connecticut River and nearby valleys. Hikers should note seasonal closures for peregrine falcon nesting from March to August.
7. Bald Top Mountain
PANORAMIC SUMMIT VIEWS
Bald Top Mountain is a popular summit destination accessed via the Cross-Rivendell Trail or old forest roads, offering spectacular panoramic views of Vermont's hills and New Hampshire's White Mountains. The ascent is moderately strenuous, making it an appealing challenge for experienced hikers. The summit is renowned for its open vistas, thanks to ongoing conservation efforts.
8. Glen Falls
WATERFALL BROOK WALK
Glen Falls is a short and relatively easy walk along Glen Falls Brook, culminating at an impressive 80-foot waterfall. The trail follows a picturesque brook and is suitable for families or anyone seeking a peaceful nature outing. The falls have been a local favorite for over a century, particularly during the warmer months.
9. Sawyer Mountain Trail
RIVER VALLEY SWEEPS
Sawyer Mountain Trail offers hikers a moderately challenging climb to a vantage point with sweeping views of the upstream Connecticut River valley. The trail winds through mixed hardwood forests, providing changing scenery and the chance to spot wildlife. Its expansive river vistas are a highlight for those seeking less-crowded trails.
10. Eagles Bluff
LAKE MOREY OVERLOOK
Eagles Bluff, reached via the Echo Mountain Trail, offers a rewarding viewpoint above Lake Morey, with opportunities to spot raptors soaring overhead. The moderate hike traverses varied woodland terrain and includes a signed overlook for optimal views. This spot is a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts in the region.