Published Jan 27, 2021

The Haystack Mountain Trail Will Show You A Completely New Side Of Vermont

Haystack Mountain Trail in Vermont offers a diverse landscape and stunning views, making it a popular hiking destination.

Published Jan 27, 2021

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Published Oct 5, 2024

The 4.5-Mile Hiking Trail in Vermont Is a Fall Foliage Wonderland

Go leaf-peeping on this kid-friendly trail that leads to a waterfall and some of the best fall foliage in Vermont.

Published Oct 5, 2024

Written by

Beth Price-Williams

Autumn has long been my favorite time of the year, especially once we inch toward the peak of the fall foliage. Of all the places I’ve lived, I’ve never experienced anything quite as beautiful as the fall foliage in Vermont. We have so many ways to admire the colors, but one of the best is on a brisk hike on a crisp autumn day, and this trail promises magnificent scenery, including a waterfall.

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alt — All Trails/ Bruce Carr

Although breathtaking at any time of the year, Lye Brook Falls Trail is one to follow at least once near or at the peak of the fall foliage in Manchester. Fall schedules are usually jam-packed, making this relatively short trek ideal. You’ll only need a little over two hours to follow the 4.5-mile moderate trail the whole family, including the littles and the (leashed) pups, will love.

While the trail can get crowded due to its popularity, you shouldn’t have trouble finding parking in the lot, which has around 20 spaces. Parking is also available along the road. The biggest challenges, depending on how you look at it, will come once you hit the trail. Be prepared for an uphill climb heading to Lye Brook Falls, which makes for an easy hike back to the trailhead, and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes to help deal with the rocky terrain and water crossings. The kiddos – and maybe even you – will likely enjoy climbing over downed tree limbs on this forest hike.

alt — Waterfall cascading down the rockface at Lye Brook Falls in Manchester, VT, USA

If you’re not in a hurry, take your time and soak up the scenery – chipmunks scurrying along the path; fallen leaves stuck to the ground; and mushrooms popping up. The trail's highlight is Lye Brook Falls. One of the tallest waterfalls in Vermont, Lye Brook Falls tumbles down 125 feet and is breathtaking when surrounded by the fall colors.

A word of caution: The rocks near the waterfall are incredibly slippery, so avoid climbing. If it hasn’t rained recently, you may find the waterfall is little more than a trickle, so keep that in mind before setting off.

Where is your favorite place to view the fall foliage in Vermont? Have you followed Lye Brook Falls Trail in autumn? Let us know in the comments! Not sure what to take with you when you set off? Check out OIYS’ list of hiking packing essentials. After a refreshing fall hike, you’ve probably worked up a mighty appetite. Head over to Ye Olde Tavern in Manchester, the oldest restaurant in Vermont, for a delicious bite.

Published Sep 17, 2024

The Stunning Top-Secret Waterfall in Vermont Almost Nobody’s Ever Heard Of

Set off on a short and sweet trail that passes over two suspension bridges and to a beautiful cascade.

Published Sep 17, 2024

Written by

Beth Price-Williams

Vermont’s natural beauty really seems endless. One of my favorite things about living in Vermont was the beauty everywhere I looked – from passing through Burlington and catching a glimpse of Lake Champlain glistening in the sunlight to driving through the Green Mountains on an autumn day. With all of the hidden gems waiting to be discovered, we’re certainly never wanting for an adventure. When you’ve got some free time, follow this pretty path that leads to a little-known waterfall in Vermont.

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Chasing waterfalls has long been one of my favorite ways to spend a few hours or an entire day, and Vermont is brimming with Mother Nature’s most breathtaking creations. The 2.6-mile Otter Creek Gorge Trail in Middlebury wanders through the woods, by a lush field, past the creek, and to a beautiful waterfall, one that’s considered little-known unless you live in the area.

alt — All Trails/Rob McIlwaine

Likened to a walk in the woods, which is particularly enchanting when fall’s fiery colors paint the landscape, the short but sweet trail can easily be completed in about an hour. Before you lace up your hiking shoes for a trek along this waterfall trail, though, make sure you’ve got a few things with you. In the warmer months, mosquitos swarm the area, so bug spray is essential. Lather it on and bring extra, just in case. Sturdy shoes are recommended, predominately due to the uneven terrain, in some spots, that could result in a sprained ankle, and the path can get incredibly muddy after it rains.

Rain, though, on this pretty path is actually a good thing, if you’re coming to see the waterfall. The cascade is even more spectacular after it rains. (The waterfall is just as gorgeous when frozen, so don’t count out hiking during the winter.)

alt — All Trails/David Wick

While the little-known waterfall is the highlight, the kid- and dog-friendly Otter Creek Gorge Trail promises even more natural – colorful wildflowers during the warmer months – and manmade beauty. You’ll also cross over two fairy-tale suspension bridges. If there’s no one else on the bridges, stop for a minute or two to admire the views and snap photos.

Have you been to this little-known waterfall in Vermont? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! If you’re up for more adventures, add these incredible natural wonders in Vermont to your bucket list, or go on a scenic hike. Find all of the best hiking trails in Vermont on All Trails.

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The 4.5-Mile Hiking Trail in Vermont Is a Fall Foliage Wonderland

Go leaf-peeping on this kid-friendly trail that leads to a waterfall and some of the best fall foliage in Vermont.

by Beth Price-Williams