Hiking Near Stratton Mountain: 5 Trails Worth the Drive
The Stratton area sits in the Green Mountains, and the hiking here is legitimate. From fire tower summits to Appalachian Trail crossings, you have real trails within 30-45 minutes. Here are five worth doing.
1. Stratton Mountain Fire Tower -- 7.6 miles round trip, Moderate
The summit of Stratton Mountain at 3,936 feet has a fire tower that's been there since 1913. On a clear day, you can see Mount Washington to the north and the Catskills to the south. The trail starts at the gondola base parking area and climbs steadily through hardwood then boreal forest. Total elevation gain is about 1,800 feet. Allow 4-5 hours round trip.
2. Stratton Pond -- 3.8 miles round trip, Easy-Moderate
Stratton Pond is the largest body of water in the Green Mountain National Forest. The hike from the Kelley Stand Road trailhead follows the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail and is well-maintained. The pond is a legitimate destination with good swimming in summer. Bring a lunch.
3. Bald Mountain (Townshend) -- 3.4 miles round trip, Moderate
About 25 minutes from Stratton, in Townshend State Park. Short, satisfying hike with a summit view that's disproportionate to the effort. The trail climbs about 1,100 feet. The park has camping and a swimming area on Townshend Lake worth pairing with the hike.
4. Bromley Mountain -- 5.4 miles round trip, Moderate
Bromley's summit hike follows the ski trails then the Long Trail to a 3,260-foot summit. Views look directly at the Stratton summit and the surrounding ridgeline. Drive time: about 20 minutes on Route 30 north.
5. Glastenbury Mountain -- 14.8 miles round trip, Strenuous
For serious hikers. A remote summit in the southern Green Mountains requiring a committed day -- 7-9 hours on trail. The summit has a fire tower and the ridge walk is through genuine wilderness. The trailhead is in Bennington, about 30 minutes from Stratton.
Far Away is available for summer and fall stays. Check availability.
