Big and Little Deer Mountains

This route begins at the Big Deer State Park Trailhead near Hosmer Brook and climbs steadily through mature northern hardwood forest. Follow the established trail along Hosmer Brook to Big Deer Trail, which climbs east to the mountain. The summit offers sweeping views of the surrounding forested hills and is a rewarding goal for day hikers seeking a challenging ascent. From Big Deer’s summit, follow the trail back down and across the valley to a lightly traveled path toward Little Deer Mountain. The terrain includes short, steep pitches and occasional blowdown, but the solitude and potential wildlife sightings—moose and black bear are possible—add to the backcountry experience. After reaching the high point near Little Deer, return along the same route. Seasonal seeps and Hosmer Brook may provide water, but purification is essential. This traverse rewards strong hikers with quiet forest walking, rugged ridge travel, and a sense of remoteness uncommon in more developed parts of Vermont.