Haystack Mountain and Mount Snow

The trail begins at Deerfield Ridge Trailhead and climbs steadily through northern hardwood forest toward Haystack Mountain. Follow the marked path uphill as it winds through a mix of maple, beech, and birch. After a sustained ascent, follow the spur to Haystack Mountain’s open summit ledges, which offer sweeping views across the Deerfield Valley. This is a natural turnaround point for shorter outings. To continue to Mount Snow, return to the main ridgeline trail and continue north. The terrain becomes steeper and more rugged past Haystack, with sections of rocky footing and limited signage. Carry a GPS device or detailed map for navigation, especially in low visibility. Seasonal water sources may be found in shallow drainages between the two peaks, but they are not reliable—bring enough water for the full route. The final climb to Mount Snow opens up again at high elevation, with expansive views north toward the Green Mountains. This route rewards strong hikers with back-to-back summits, remote forest travel, and classic New England foliage in fall.