Long Mileage Hikes to do during Mud Season

Quinn on rocky shore along river at Stowe Recreation Path — Stowe Recreation Path. Photo courtesy: Amy Potter

Let’s HikeVT! This week we’re featuring low-elevation hikes with lots of mileage to keep you moving through mud season. Know before you go: proper footwear, safety, and activities for mud season.

North Branch Trail, Ferdinand
Island Line Trail, Burlington to South Hero
Stowe Recreation Path, Stowe
Bear Swamp Loop, Middlesex
Bristol Trail Network, Bristol
Mt. Ascutney Parkway, Windsor
West River Trail, Londonderry to Townsend

North Branch Trail, Ferdinand

» 3.5 mi round trip, approx.  129  ft elevation gain 

This loop borders the North Branch of the Nulhegan River. For longer mileage, try doing the loop twice! More info.

Directions: From 91 N, take exit 23 and turn right onto US-5 North. Continue straight onto VT-114 North for 23 miles. Continue straight onto VT-105 East. In about 7 miles, the trailhead will be on your left. Map it.

Island Line Trail, Burlington to South Hero

» 14 miles one way, approx. 50 ft elevation gain

This trail follows Lake Champlain’s shoreline from Burlington through Colchester and across the Colchester Causeway, which goes through the middle of the lake to South Hero. More info.

Directions: There are many access points for the Island Line Trail. The trail starts at Oakledge Park in Burlington. To get there from Route 7 South, turn right onto Flynn Ave. Parking is at the end of the road. Map it.

Stowe Recreation Path, Stowe

» 11 mi round trip, approx. 190 ft elevation gain

This 5.5-mile paved path winds along the west branch of the Waterbury River through the beautiful town of Stowe. It is a great option for biking or walking while enjoying views of Vermont’s highest mountain, Mt. Mansfield. Return the way came for an 11-mile round trip adventure. More info.

Directions: There are many access points for the Stowe Recreation Path. To access the southern terminus, park at Lintilhac Park behind the Stowe Community Church on Main Street in Stowe Village. Map it.

Bear Swamp Loop, Middlesex

» 5.5 miles round trip, approx. 548 ft elevation gain

This loop connects dirt roads including over a mile of a Class 4 road. The road bring you by Beaver Pond, through forests, and provide views of the Worcester Range. More info.

Directions: From Route 12 north from Montpelier, turn left onto Shady Rill Road. The route begins just past Rumney Memorial School at the junction with Story Road and East Bear Swamp Road. Park at the Hunger Mountain trailhead or on the wide shoulder adjacent to the Rumney School athletic fields. Map it.

Note, March 28, 2022: The Hunger Mountain Trailhead parking lot is not currently accessible due to snow. The class 4 road section of the loop is covered in snow. Parking is available near Rumney School, and will also be available at Hunger Mountain Trailhead once the snow melts.

Bristol Trail Network, Bristol

» 3.6 mile loop, approx. 134 ft elevation gain

This loop connects multiple trails through the town of Bristol. It brings you down sidewalks, along the river, past historical markers, and has lovely views. To get your extra steps in, do the loop twice! More info.

Directions: You can park on Main Street or along the Town Green and easily walk to any of the trail segments. There is also parking at the trailhead on South Street and behind the fire station, as well as at the high school and the recreation park. Map it.

Mt. Ascutney Parkway, Windsor

» 7.4 mi round trip, approx. 2,300 ft elevation gain

The paved toll road that winds up the side of Mount Ascutney provides long mileage, nice views, and elevation gain that can be hard to find during mud season. More info.

Directions: From I-91, take Exit 8. Go 0.2 miles east on Rt. 131 to stop light, then turn left on Rt. 5 for 1.2 miles, then bear left on Rt. 44A for 1 mile. Map it.