The Pogue and Mount Tom Trail

The trail is located within the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. You can find parking at the main visitor center or designated trailheads within the park, which are easily accessible from Woodstock Village.

Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash on the trails within the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. However, please note that dogs are not allowed in The Pogue itself.

The trail is popular year-round. Autumn is particularly stunning as the vibrant fall foliage reflects beautifully in The Pogue. In winter, some trails are groomed for cross-country skiing, offering a different experience. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and abundant wildflowers.

No, there are generally no entrance fees or permits required for day hiking on the trails within the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.

The overall loop is considered moderate. While sections like the carriage roads are gentle, the ascent to Mount Tom's South Peak, particularly via the Faulkner Trail, becomes rockier and steeper towards the summit. The final 100 yards can be strenuous and is assisted by a handrail due to uneven footing.

Key highlights include the picturesque The Pogue, a 14-acre man-made pond, and the panoramic View from Faulkner Trail on Mount Tom, which offers stunning vistas of Woodstock Village and the Green Mountains.

From Mount Tom's South Peak, you'll be treated to expansive western views of the Green Mountains and southern views overlooking Woodstock Village and the Ottauquechee River. It's a truly rewarding panorama.

The trail features varied terrain, including gentle, graded carriage roads for much of the journey, which provide a relatively smooth walking surface. As you ascend Mount Tom, the path becomes rockier and steeper, especially on the Faulkner Trail, with some uneven footing near the summit.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the North Ridge Loop Trail, Mountain Road Carriage Path, One Less Traveled Trail, West Ridge Trail, and Prosper Trail, offering options for exploring more of the park's network.

Yes, many sections, particularly the carriage roads and the loop around The Pogue, are relatively easy and accessible for families with children. The ascent to Mount Tom is more challenging but can be managed by active families.

The area is rich in wildlife. Around The Pogue, you might see great blue herons, ducks, turtles, and frogs. The diverse forest stands are home to various bird species and other woodland creatures.