Classic Hike Route

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A demanding 7.6-mile route in Vermont's Taconic Range that combines old woods roads with a steep, unmaintained path to reach the wooded summit of one of New England's Fifty Finest peaks.

7.6

Distance

2,078

Gain

strenuous

Difficulty

Regional Classic

A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.

Dogs AllowedFall ColorsRiver/Creek

No permits are required for this hike. A portion of this route crosses private property; hikers must stay on the established path to preserve public access. Parking at the end of Shaftsbury Hollow Road is extremely limited, with space for only a few vehicles. Do not block the gate, turnarounds, or private driveways.

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Route Details

Flatter

Steeper

7.56mi

Distance

2,078ft

Elevation Gain

2,078ft

Elevation Loss

--%

Max Grade

3,105ft

High Point

1,139ft

Low Point

Path Type

There and Back

This route begins and ends at the end of Shaftsbury Hollow Road, after reaching the wooded summit of Grass Mountain. Follow the old logging road heading northeast along the brook. Around 2.6 miles, keep following the trail to the northwest. Around 3.2 miles, the trail switches back to climb southwest along the ridge towards the summit. Expect navigation cruxes, as the path is not officially maintained and requires route-finding through blowdowns and dense forest. The wooded summit is marked by a summit register canister. Retrace your steps back down the ridge and along the logging road to return to the trailhead.