The best walks and hikes around Old Bennington

There are 14 distinct hiking routes around Old Bennington, offering a variety of experiences. These include 5 easy trails, 7 moderate trails, and 2 more challenging options, ensuring something for every skill level.

Yes, Old Bennington offers several easy trails perfect for families. A great option is The Mile-Around Woods, an easy 2.6 km path through scenic woodland and pasture. The Waters Hill Cemetery Trail is another gentle, shorter option. Additionally, the Carriage Road on Mount Anthony provides beginner-friendly walking with amazing views.

For breathtaking vistas, consider trails that ascend to higher points. Harmon Hill and Scrub Hill offers expansive views of Bennington, Mount Anthony, and even into New York State. Bald Mountain (also known as "White Rocks") is another popular choice, providing sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and a unique "sea of rocks" at its summit.

Many trails in Old Bennington are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. The Mile-Around Woods is a popular spot for dog walkers, offering open spaces and woodland paths.

Old Bennington's trails showcase a diverse landscape, from deep woods and red pine strands to open meadows and bubbling brooks. You'll find yourself in the southwestern Green Mountains, with opportunities to explore unique features like the solution cave at Everett Cave, the serene waters of Lake Paran, and the vibrant wildflowers along the George Aiken Wildflower Trail near the Bennington Museum.

Yes, Old Bennington seamlessly blends natural beauty with historical significance. You can hike near the iconic Bennington Battle Monument, Vermont's tallest man-made structure. The Carriage Road on Mount Anthony offers views of the monument. You might also encounter picturesque structures like the Silk Covered Bridge or the Wooden Footbridge.

The best time to hike in Old Bennington is generally from late spring through fall. Late spring and early summer offer vibrant wildflowers, while autumn provides spectacular fall foliage. Summer is also excellent, though some trails can be busy. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions can be challenging, requiring appropriate gear for snow and ice.

Yes, several routes in Old Bennington offer a circular experience. The Mile-Around Woods is a popular easy loop. Many trails within the Bennington Area Trail System (BATS) on Mount Anthony also form loops or can be combined for circular walks, allowing you to explore diverse terrain without retracing your steps.

The hiking trails in Old Bennington are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 8 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's diverse terrain, from gentle woodland paths to rewarding climbs, and the blend of natural beauty with historical landmarks.

Yes, both the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) and the Long Trail (L.T.) co-align and pass within a few miles of historic downtown Bennington. This provides excellent opportunities for both short day hikes and longer excursions onto these renowned national trails. For example, you can experience a section of it on the Harmon Hill via Long Trail (Appalachian Trail) route.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the region offers more strenuous options. The Harmon Hill and Scrub Hill route, at 13.6 km with significant elevation gain, is rated as moderate but provides a good workout. The Glastenbury Wilderness area, accessible via the A.T./L.T. near Bennington, also presents a rugged landscape for those looking for a more remote and demanding experience.

While public transport options directly to specific trailheads might be limited, Bennington has local bus services that could get you close to certain areas. However, for maximum flexibility and access to a wider range of trails, driving and utilizing designated parking areas is generally recommended.

Parking is typically available at or near popular trailheads. For trails on Mount Anthony, such as those part of the Bennington Area Trail System (BATS), you'll find designated parking areas. For routes like The Mile-Around Woods, there are specific parking lots. It's always advisable to check the route details on komoot for specific parking information before you head out.