The best walks and hikes in Moosalamoo National Recreation Area
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hikes
Hiking in Moosalamoo National Recreation Area offers a diverse landscape within central Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, spanning nearly 16,000 acres. The region features over 70 miles of trails, catering to various skill levels from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. Hikers can explore varied forest environments, including hardwood and softwood trees, alongside serene lakes and notable waterfalls. The area is characterized by its mountains, such as Mount Moosalamoo, providing rewarding views and a sense of wilderness.
Best hiking trails…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
2
hikers
3.78km
00:58
10m
10m
The Silver Lake Loop Trail offers an easy hike around the scenic Silver Lake, perfect for a relaxing outdoor experience. You will cover 2.4 miles (3.8 km) with a minimal…
1
hikers
7.91km
02:45
620m
90m
Embark on a journey through the pristine Breadloaf Wilderness on the Breadloaf Mountain and Mount Wilson via Skylight Pond Trail. This route takes you through diverse forest types, from hardwoods…
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3.85km
01:14
270m
20m
Hike the easy 2.4-mile Mount Moosalamoo Trail through diverse forests to summit views of Lake Dunmore and the Green Mountains.
3.38km
01:17
310m
100m
Hike the moderate Rattlesnake Cliffs Trail for 2.1 miles (3.4 km) in Vermont, gaining 1013 feet (309 metres) to stunning cliff-top views.
896m
00:16
30m
30m
Discover a serene slice of Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest on the Pleiad Lake via Long Trail hike. This short, easy 0.6-mile (0.9 km) path winds through a fragrant alpine…
5.55km
01:56
430m
80m
Hike the moderate 3.4-mile Gillespie Peak via Long Trail in Joseph Battell Wilderness, gaining 1396 feet through rugged forests.
1.23km
00:31
150m
10m
Hike the easy 0.8-mile Great Cliff via Long Trail for a steep ascent to expansive vistas from the Great Cliff of Mount Horrid.
1
hikers
16.4km
04:43
400m
400m
Hike the moderate 10.2-mile Chandler Ridge and Leicester Hollow Loop in Vermont, featuring lake views and varied terrain.
3
hikers
2.31km
00:53
160m
160m
Hike the Great Cliff of Mount Horrid for panoramic views of the Green Mountains and a chance to spot peregrine falcons.
2
hikers
10.2km
03:09
360m
370m
Hike the moderate 6.3-mile Mount Moosalamoo Loop in Vermont's Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, gaining 1192 feet with summit views.
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Popular around Moosalamoo National Recreation Area
Tips from the Community
Extremely hilly, sounds of nature, lot's to see & experience. Downhills are well worth the climbs. You definitely need to have some rides/climbing in your season. Update 7/26/25 Still crazy hilly & and punchy. However, the downhill runs are amazing..😉
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Brandon Gap is a tall mountain pass in the green mountains on Gap Road. This is a challenging climb in a beautiful area in the green mountains. The Long Trail crosses the road right at the summit of the pass, so be on the lookout for thru-hikers as you ride past!
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Middlebury Gap is a mountain pass in Vermont's Green Mountains and a great, very challenging climb for any rider. It divides two different drainage areas with the Robbins Branch flowing southeast into the White River, and the South Branch into Middlebury River, which into Otter Creek, connecting to Lake Champlain. The Long Trail, a 272-mile hiking route traversing Vermont, runs through here, passing between Worth Mountain and Boyce Mountain. The Breadloaf Wilderness lies to the north, while Middlebury College Snow Bowl and Joseph Battell Wilderness are nearby to the south.
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It's a short but very steep climb up to this viewpoint on the flank of Mount Horrid. You can follow the Long Trail all the way to the peak of Mount Horrid (and beyond), but the views are actually better from this exposed cliff than from the forested peak.
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The trees open up a little on top of Breadloaf Mountain and therefore you can have some nice views over the surrounding hills and summits. Especially beautiful in autumn.
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Mount Moosalamoo is derived from the Abenaki word "Mozalômo" which means moose call. The mount is 2 625 feet high and located in the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area. 70 miles of trails and almost 16,000 acres just waiting for you to explore.
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You will find just a few hundred meters further south of the dam, a nice well-equipped beach.
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There are several silver lakes in the state of Vermont. This one is the smallest and is part of the Green Mountain National Forest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Moosalamoo National Recreation Area?
Komoot lists 14 hiking routes within the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area. The area itself boasts over 70 miles of well-maintained trails, catering to a wide range of skill levels.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, there are 6 easy routes available. A notable option is the Great Cliff of Mount Horrid, which is 2.3 km long. Another excellent choice for all abilities is the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail, a 0.9-mile universally accessible loop featuring a boardwalk and interpretive signs.
Can I find trails with waterfalls in Moosalamoo National Recreation Area?
Yes, the Falls of Lana on Sucker Brook is a notable natural attraction within the area. It's accessible via a short, steep hike and offers a beautiful natural feature to explore.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options?
The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail is an excellent family-friendly option. This 0.9-mile universally accessible loop features a boardwalk over a beaver pond and interpretive signs, making it engaging for all ages. It also connects to other trails for those looking to extend their walk.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on the trails?
The area offers diverse scenic views. You can find picturesque western vistas from overlooks like Voter Brook Overlook. The Oak Ridge Trail provides views of Lake Dunmore, Lake Champlain, and Lake George. For expansive views, the summit of Mount Moosalamoo, accessible via the Mount Moosalamoo hike Loop, is a rewarding destination.
Are there any trails that lead to lakes?
Absolutely. The Minnie Baker Trail to Silver Lake is a popular moderate hike that leads to the serene Silver Lake, which also hosts a hike-in campground. There's also an easy Silver Lake loop from Salisbury.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Moosalamoo National Recreation Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 8 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the sense of wilderness solitude, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels. Many appreciate that it's quieter than other popular hiking spots in Vermont.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, several circular routes are available. You can explore the Mount Moosalamoo hike Loop, a 10.2 km moderate trail. Another option is the Silver Lake loop from Branbury State Park, an easy 5.1 km route.
What are the typical forest environments like in Moosalamoo National Recreation Area?
Hikers can explore varied forest environments, including both hardwood and softwood forests. These are characterized by species such as sugar maple, American beech, and yellow birch, providing both beauty and ample shade along the trails.
Is there a trail that leads to the highest peak in the area?
Yes, the Mount Moosalamoo hike Loop leads directly to the summit of Mount Moosalamoo, which is the highest peak in the area at 2,625 feet. It offers rewarding views for those who reach the top.
Are there any longer day hikes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a longer day hike, the Oak Ridge Trail is a good option. It straddles Mount Moosalamoo and offers diverse views. Another challenging moderate route is the Minnie Baker Trail to Silver Lake, which is 16.4 km long.
What is the best time of year to hike in Moosalamoo National Recreation Area?
The trails in Moosalamoo National Recreation Area are generally accessible year-round. However, the diverse forest environments, with sugar maple and yellow birch, suggest that autumn offers spectacular fall foliage. Spring and summer provide lush greenery, while winter allows for activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
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