For Breathtaking Views Of The Green Mountains, Hike The Out-And-Back Sterling Pond Trail At Smuggler’s Notch In Vermont
Warmer weather is upon us, and it’s time to start thinking about spring hiking in Vermont. And although the snow hasn’t melted away from the mountains just yet, we can still start to plan our spring hikes. One such hike is the Sterling Pond trail on Mount Mansfield. This short and steep out-and-back trail leads to the pristine Sterling Pond at Smuggler’s Notch.
Located near Jeffersonville, the Sterling Pond trailhead can be found on Route 108 opposite a parking area roughly three miles south of Smuggler's Notch Resort.
Important to remember is that Route 108 (The Notch Road) is closed in the winter from mid-October to mid-May, so if you plan on doing this hike before the road reopens, you'll have to park near Smuggler's Notch Resort and walk along Route 108 to the trailhead.
The idyllic Sterling Pond is situated neatly between two peaks and is 3,000 feet above sea level. This is also the highest situated trout pond in Vermont. If you are interested in fishing in the pond, a permit is required.
Luke was born and raised in Colchester, Vermont, and is a recent graduate of the University of Vermont where he studied philosophy and economics. His interests and hobbies include: reading, writing, learning new languages, hiking and playing outdoor sports.
