Wilmington VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Wilmington, Vermont.
1. Valley Trail
CONNECT TWO RESORT VILLAGES
The Valley Trail connects the resort villages of Wilmington and Dover in southern Vermont, offering a 9-mile recreational pathway suitable for users of all ages. Hikers can enjoy this year-round trail whether on foot or on bicycles, making it perfect for exercise and experiencing the beauty of southern Vermont. The trail provides multiple access points with parking options throughout its length, allowing visitors to explore sections or attempt the entire route between the two towns.
2. Hoot, Toot & Whistle Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH LOOP
The Hoot, Toot & Whistle Trail is located on the eastern side of Lake Raponda and offers both a short 0.3-mile loop and a longer option through the Wilmington Town Forest. Hikers can access the trailhead by parking in the designated lot for the Green Mountain Beach on Lake Raponda Road. The longer route passes through scenic woods, connects with several roads including Stearns Road and Ware Road, and eventually returns to Lake Raponda Road to complete the loop.
3. Riverwalk
SCENIC VILLAGE WATERSIDE STROLL
The Riverwalk starts at the west edge of Wilmington village and offers an accessible hiking option for visitors wanting to explore near the water. This trail is part of the Wilmington Trails network, providing opportunities for walking, hiking, and biking with beautiful riverside views. The Riverwalk can be accessed from the center of Wilmington Village, making it a convenient option for visitors staying in town.
4. Raponda Ridge Trails
WOODLAND LAKE VIEWS
The Raponda Ridge Trails network offers hiking opportunities with scenic views around Lake Raponda in Wilmington. These trails traverse through wooded areas and provide a natural escape with varying difficulty levels suitable for different hiking abilities. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the lake while exploring the well-maintained pathways through the Vermont forest.
5. Downtown Loop
HISTORIC VILLAGE DISCOVERY
The Historic Downtown Wilmington Loop offers an easy walking trail through the charming village center. This trail allows visitors to explore the historic architecture and quaint character of Wilmington while enjoying a leisurely hike. Hikers can begin at any public parking area in the village center and follow the well-marked route through town.
6. Primitive Trail
RUGGED NATURAL EXPERIENCE
The Primitive Trail in Wilmington offers a more challenging hiking experience for those seeking a less developed path through Vermont's natural landscape. This trail provides a rugged hiking experience with limited amenities, making it ideal for experienced hikers looking for solitude. The route showcases Vermont's untamed wilderness with natural features and minimal trail maintenance.
7. Hogback Loop
MOUNTAIN CONSERVATION EXPLORATION
The Hogback Loop traverses through the Hogback Mountain Conservation area, offering hikers beautiful views and well-maintained trails. This moderate difficulty trail takes hikers through diverse forest environments and potentially rewarding vistas of the surrounding mountains. The Hogback Mountain Conservation Association maintains these trails, which can be explored using their detailed trail maps available locally.
8. Sun and Ski Loop
ALL-SEASON RECREATIONAL PATH
The Sun and Ski Loop in Wilmington provides a versatile trail experience that can be enjoyed throughout different seasons of the year. This loop offers hikers moderate terrain with scenic views of the surrounding Vermont landscape. Winter visitors may find this trail particularly appealing as it likely accommodates both hiking and potentially winter sports activities, as suggested by its name.
9. Town Forest Loop and Tree Walk
EDUCATIONAL FOREST PATH
The Town Forest Loop and Tree Walk offers hikers an educational experience through Wilmington's managed forest lands. This gentler trail includes informational features about local tree species and forest ecology, making it ideal for families and nature enthusiasts. The well-maintained path provides a pleasant walking experience while teaching visitors about Vermont's natural environment and forestry practices.
10. Catamount Trail
CROSS-COUNTRY BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURE
The Catamount Trail offers sections both north and south of Wilmington, providing extensive hiking opportunities through Vermont's backcountry. This trail system features varying difficulty levels and connects with the broader Catamount network that extends throughout Vermont. Hikers can experience the diverse Vermont landscape while enjoying well-marked routes through forests and mountain terrain.