Once again, hikers can climb an observation tower on the summit of Bromley Mountain in Peru, VT. This 40-foot-tall steel observation tower stands on Bromley’s summit (3,260 ft.), offering sweeping views of Killington, Okemo, Stratton, and Glastenbury mountains, and the surrounding areas.
The original wood tower, first built in 1962, was dismantled and removed from the mountain in the summer of 2012 for safety reasons. Soon after, the Manchester Section of the Green Mountain Club began efforts to gather resources to rebuild the beloved tower. Years of planning, permitting, and fundraising were required to complete the project. Bromley Tower was a joint project as it shares the summit with Bromley Mountain Ski Resort, is owned by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation, and is managed by the Green Mountain Club.
The new Bromley Mountain Observation Tower is now open for hikers to enjoy. Hikers can access the tower by hiking the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail north from Route 11/30 (6.0 miles round trip) or by taking the chair lift from the base of Bromley Mountain Resort. (For uphill winter travel, please follow the guidelines of Bromley Mountain Resort.)
Hike to the New Bromley Tower
Bromley Mountain Summit » 6.0 mi round trip, approx. 1,460 ft elevation gain
Follow the Long Trail north as it gradually climbs past Bromley Shelter. It then climbs more steeply to the summit where you will find yourself surrounded by views from every angle. The grassy, open ski trails make it a wonderful spot to relax and eat lunch. This is one of our favorite hikes for sunrise/sunset views, foliage views, and hunting season hikes. The new observation tower also offers a good alternative to nearby Glastenbury Mountain, whose firetower is currently closed due to structural issues.
Driving Directions: From Route 7 in Manchester, take exit 4 and follow Route 11/30 west for 4.5 miles until you reach the Long Trail parking lot on the left. Map it.
What Hikers Have to Say
“That is so great to hear. I’ll have to come up in the next few weeks and have a look. It’s such a wonderful memory from when I was a kid.” – John Watkins, Fairfield, CT
“Great project. We talked to several hikers and those that took the chairlift – everyone thought it was terrific.” Bill & Diane Leber, Chesapeake, VA
“Wonderful news! I remember the old tower well from my many years in Manchester… look forward to hiking up the new tower!” Lee Krohn, Charlotte, VT
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