Bald Mountain Trail Near Bennington Is Vermont’s Most Rewarding Hidden Hiking Challenge

One of my favorite pastimes is wandering along a new hike and soaking in the scenery while listening to the sounds of nature. Since there are so many options for where to explore in Vermont, I'd like to bring your attention to the Bald Mountain Trail near Bennington. With an elevation of over 2,000 feet, this trail is rated hard. But as you'll soon learn, the mesmerizing scenery along this remote trail in the Green Mountain National Forest makes every step of this hidden nature hike in Vermont worth it.

To get started on your outdoor adventure on Bald Mountain, head to Bennington, Vermont. Aside from the epic views, this impressive hike features a forest and is known to be rocky. It's also an ideal destination for birdwatching and snowshoeing in the winter.

While this steep trail is open year-round, the best times to explore this hidden gem are early spring through late fall. Spring offers the perfect cool weather without the snow, and late fall boasts vibrant trees and foliage. Winter often means slush and snow, making the trail too slippery to cross without the proper gear.

As you hike to the summit, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife and stunning wildflowers along the path. You'll pass local plants and wildlife, including a variety of rabbits, birds, and the occasional deer or two. Just keep an eye out for black bears and keep your distance! It's a fabulous spot for botanists and birdwatchers alike to enjoy the views.

Once you reach the summit, you'll realize that this Vermont hike was worth it. Seasoned hikers say that rocky areas can be tricky to navigate, but with the right gear, including sturdy hiking shoes, all hikers can enjoy portions of this trail. Thankfully, the trail is also well-maintained and marked—less chance of getting lost on a rocky offshoot of the main path.

We're sure your furry pals will be in awe of the scenery, too. Dogs are allowed on leash along the trail; just make sure that they don't disturb the plants and wildlife in the area. Always clean up after them!

Of course, you'll want to have your camera ready to capture moments like this picture-perfect sunset. We highly recommend getting a head start on this hike in the early morning, especially since parking spots at the trailhead can fill up fast. But if you happen to be on an afternoon or evening walk, we can't deny these goregous views.

Now that you know about this hidden day hike in Vermont, what are you waiting for? Visit AllTrails for more information about this remote trail in the Green Mountain Forest. We also suggest referring to our Ultimate Hiking Packing List. In this guide, you'll find helpful tools and tips to ensure you have a safe adventure. And if you'd like to explore some more adventures, we suggest checking our coverage of the best hikes in Vermont.