Forest City Trail

The Forest City Trail is located within Camel's Hump State Park near Waterbury, Vermont. It serves as an access point to various hiking experiences on Camel's Hump mountain. Specific parking details are not provided, but it's generally accessed from the park's designated trailheads.

The Forest City Trail itself is a 'blue difficulty' singletrack trail, approximately 2 miles (3 km) long, following an old logging road. However, the overall difficulty depends on your chosen route. It can be an easy 0.6-mile round trip to an old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Camp, a moderate 4.4-mile round trip to Montclair Glen Lodge with a steady climb, or a difficult ascent to the Camel's Hump summit via the Long Trail, which involves steep sections and rock scrambles.

Regulations for dogs within Camel's Hump State Park can vary. It's always best to check the official Vermont State Parks website or contact the park directly for the most current rules regarding pets on trails.

Camel's Hump State Park generally does not charge an entrance fee for day use. However, it's advisable to check the official Vermont State Parks website for any updated regulations or specific permits that might be required for certain activities or overnight stays.

The best time to hike depends on your desired experience. Spring and fall offer beautiful scenery, though wet leaves can make sections slick. Summer is popular, but higher elevations can be exposed. Winter hiking is possible for experienced individuals, but requires appropriate gear due to snow and ice. Always check weather conditions before heading out, especially when aiming for higher elevations.

As you ascend, you'll pass through beautiful terrain, including areas of spruce-fir forest. Reaching higher elevations offers stunning views of the surrounding Green Mountains. The summit of Camel's Hump is particularly notable for its 10 acres of alpine tundra and distinctive profile.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Long Trail and the Burrows Trail. The Forest City Trail itself connects to the Long Trail, which can lead to the summit of Camel's Hump.

The trail follows a historic logging road used in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It provides access to Montclair Glen Lodge and leads to one of Vermont's highest peaks, Camel's Hump, known for its unique alpine tundra and panoramic views.

Given the varied terrain and potential for significant elevation gain, especially if heading towards the summit, it's recommended to pack plenty of water, snacks, appropriate layers of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a map and compass or GPS device, and a first-aid kit. Trekking poles can be helpful for steeper sections.

Yes, for a less strenuous experience, you can hike the 0.6-mile round trip to the old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Camp. This section is generally gentle with about 150 feet of elevation gain, offering a taste of the trail's forest scenery without the challenging ascent to the summit.