Upper Gorge to Papa's Trail

Hiking to Bingham Falls is rewarding for many reasons; people not only come to see the falls, but also to swim in the refreshing, icy cold swimming holes as well. The main falls are tucked away along the walls of a deep, rocky gorge that has been formed naturally over time. At the base of these falls lies large pools of teal colored water perfect for taking a dip on a hot summer's day. The tra...

There are several options to reach the summit of Mount Mansfield. The Toll Road (which, appropriately, has a toll to use it), the Laura Cowles trail, the Sunset Ridge trail, Haselton Trail, the Hellbrook Trail… The most popular trail from the east side of the mountain, however, is the section of the Long Trail that I hiked. Starting at approximately 1600 feet of elevation, the trail head lo...

Sterling Pond trail begins across the street from a parking area on Route 108, about 3 miles south of Smugglers' Notch Resort. Keep in mind that the road is closed to vehicles once the snow falls, so if you want to hike this area in the winter, you'll have to park about 40 minutes away and hike in to the trailhead. This trail is a short 1.1 miles each way, with a 1000' gain in elevation. It'...

If you're in New England during September or early October, a drive up north into Vermont is an absolute must for prime fall foliage. I-89 brings you through the state from I-93, and is in itself a beautifully scenic drive. Stowe, Vermont is a small ski resort town located just outside of Mt. Mansfield State Forest. Surrounding the picturesque, New England village, there are incredible brewerie...

If hiking in off season when the park is closed, begin from the lower parking lot or the "day use area". If hiking while the park is open you can drive to the upper parking lot (subtract about 1.4 miles from total distance)Beginning from the lower parking lot make you way through the gate and into the park. Turn left and begin walking up the road for about 3/4 of a mile. Here you'll reach the t...

Mt Hunger stands at 3540 ft and face Vermont's tallest mountain, Mt Mansfield. At 45 min drive from Burlington, this is a challenging out and back hike.  The views it offers and the waterfalls you will find along the path, makes it a good alternative to the overcrowded trails of Mt Mansfield. The easiest way to get there is to take Loomis Hill Rd then Sweet Farm Rd from Waterbury Center. Enjoy...