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West Farm and Pond Loop Trail

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

West Farm and Pond Loop Trail

Easy

3.0

(27)

hikers

West Farm and Pond Loop Trail

Q: What is the difficulty level of the West Farm and Pond Loop Trail?

This trail is rated as easy , making it suitable for most hikers, including beginners and families. The West Farm Trail section is a 'green difficulty' singletrack, indicating a gentle and accessible path.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

The route primarily features woodland terrain, with sections of singletrack trail. It is generally relatively flat, offering a peaceful natural setting with opportunities for forest views and pond lookouts.

Q: Are there any notable features or points of interest along the way?

Yes, the loop includes several points of interest. You'll pass by the Grist Mill Bridge and the scenic Brewster River Falls . A significant portion of the route follows the West Farm Trail itself.

Q: Does the trail intersect with other paths?

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other official trails. You'll hike along parts of the West Farm Trail, Alden Bryan Brewster River Trail, Pond Loop Trail, Brewster River Connector Trail, and Canyon Road Trail.

Q: Is the West Farm and Pond Loop Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring offers lush greenery, summer provides pleasant shade, and fall showcases vibrant foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, but be prepared for snow and ice conditions.

Q: Where can I park to access the trailhead?

Specific parking details for this exact loop are not provided, but trails in the Brewster Uplands area typically have designated parking areas near trailheads. Look for signage for public parking when you arrive.

Q: Are there any permits or entrance fees required to hike in Brewster Uplands?

As of now, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within Brewster Uplands, including the West Farm and Pond Loop Trail. However, it's always a good idea to check for any updates before your visit.

Q: What kind of wildlife might I see on the trail?

Given the woodland and pond-side environment, you might spot various local wildlife. Beavers are known to inhabit pond areas in Vermont, and you could also encounter birds, squirrels, and other small mammals.

Q: Is the trail suitable for families with young children?

Yes, its easy difficulty rating and relatively flat terrain make it an excellent choice for families with young children. The varied scenery and points of interest can keep younger hikers engaged.

01:34

5.82km

70m

Hiking

Embark on the West Farm and Pond Loop Trail for an easy hike through peaceful woodland environments, characteristic of Vermont's natural beauty. This route combines the West Farm Trail with a scenic Pond Loop, offering you pleasant forest views and a chance to discover a tranquil pond lookout. Along the way, you'll encounter the charming Grist Mill Bridge and the scenic Brewster River Falls, adding visual interest to your journey. Covering 3.6 miles (5.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 226 feet (69 metres), this easy trail is estimated to take about 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete, providing a relaxing outdoor experience.

The West Farm and Pond Loop Trail is highly accessible, making it a suitable option for most hikers looking for a straightforward outdoor adventure. You'll find parking generally available near the trailhead, ensuring convenient access to begin your journey. There are no specific permits or fees required to enjoy this route, and no seasonal closures are mentioned, so you can plan your visit with ease. This makes it a great choice for a spontaneous outing or a planned nature escape at almost any time of year.

This trail stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical elements within the Brewster Uplands area. As you hike, you'll experience the typical woodland scenery of Vermont, offering a genuine connection with nature. The inclusion of the charming Grist Mill Bridge and the scenic Brewster River Falls provides unique points of interest that enrich the overall experience, making it more than just a simple walk in the woods.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

97 m

Grist Mill Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

From the main parking area, you must walk back on the road and through the Grist Mill Covered Bridge. Also known as the Scott Covered Bridge, the Bryant Covered Bridge,or the Canyon Covered Bridge, this bridge is one of a small number of surviving Burr arch truss bridges in the state and was built in the 19th century. In 1974 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Tip by

860 m

Brewster River Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

Down a short spur trail are the Brewster River Falls in Brewster River Gorge. This is a great spot to grab your camera and snap a few photographs of these beautiful falls before continuing on your hike.

Tip by

3.70 km

West Farm Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The West Farm Trail is located within the Brewster Uplands and loops through the woods northeast of the gorge, past farmlands that are still in use. There are several trails that connect to The Alden Bryan Trail, which parallels the river, and the Brewster Pond Loop, allowing you to lengthen your hike if you choose. Please note that two farms and associated fields on the property are not open to public recreation; they are working farms so please be respectful as you hike around here.

Tip by

5.82 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.55 km

191 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

5.55 km

113 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Monday 13 July

28°C

12°C

13 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of the West Farm and Pond Loop Trail?

This trail is rated as easy, making it suitable for most hikers, including beginners and families. The West Farm Trail section is a 'green difficulty' singletrack, indicating a gentle and accessible path.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

The route primarily features woodland terrain, with sections of singletrack trail. It is generally relatively flat, offering a peaceful natural setting with opportunities for forest views and pond lookouts.

Are there any notable features or points of interest along the way?

Yes, the loop includes several points of interest. You'll pass by the Grist Mill Bridge and the scenic Brewster River Falls. A significant portion of the route follows the West Farm Trail itself.

Does the trail intersect with other paths?

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other official trails. You'll hike along parts of the West Farm Trail, Alden Bryan Brewster River Trail, Pond Loop Trail, Brewster River Connector Trail, and Canyon Road Trail.

Is the West Farm and Pond Loop Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring offers lush greenery, summer provides pleasant shade, and fall showcases vibrant foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, but be prepared for snow and ice conditions.

Where can I park to access the trailhead?

Specific parking details for this exact loop are not provided, but trails in the Brewster Uplands area typically have designated parking areas near trailheads. Look for signage for public parking when you arrive.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required to hike in Brewster Uplands?

As of now, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within Brewster Uplands, including the West Farm and Pond Loop Trail. However, it's always a good idea to check for any updates before your visit.

What kind of wildlife might I see on the trail?

Given the woodland and pond-side environment, you might spot various local wildlife. Beavers are known to inhabit pond areas in Vermont, and you could also encounter birds, squirrels, and other small mammals.

Is the trail suitable for families with young children?

Yes, its easy difficulty rating and relatively flat terrain make it an excellent choice for families with young children. The varied scenery and points of interest can keep younger hikers engaged.

How long does it typically take to complete the loop?

The West Farm and Pond Loop Trail typically takes around 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. This duration can vary based on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.