Grand Lookout Out-and-Back

The most convenient place to park for this hike is in the Barre Town Forest parking area (44 Brook St.).Find your way to the main trailhead via several worn paths used for the disc golf course at which there will be a sign listing many different trails. Head southwest on VAST through two of the disc golf course holes and getting your first glimpse at some of the monumental grout piles ahead.Continue on VAST through several grout piles until you reach an intersection next to Violet St. Hike northwest along the path next to the road for a short distance to cross Church Hill Rd. and continue on Grand Lookout (gated). From here, it's a straight shot to the overlook.As you continue along the path, you'll hike in between large granite blocks stacked several stories high - some with intricate carvings on them, and through two notable "cold spots" where the temperature drops sharply due to the surrounding geography. You'll pass a larger quarry with granite cliffs over 100 feet high. The ground will disappear to the left and right as you hike further along a reclaimed grout pile and mountainous views will emerge before reaching the ledge that is !Grand Lookout.Retrace your path to hike back to the parking area.