Long Trail to Lake Hancock

Begin this rugged Green Mountain National Forest route at the Long Trail Route 9 Trailhead, just east of Bennington. The trail immediately climbs steeply through hardwood forest, gaining elevation quickly as it heads north on the Long Trail. After a sustained ascent, reach a scenic spur to Harmon Hill, offering expansive views west over the Bennington Valley. Return to the main trail and continue north through mixed conifer and hardwood forest, passing occasional seasonal stream crossings. Stay on the Long Trail toward Lake Hancock, a remote, lightly trafficked stretch that offers solitude and good wildlife viewing potential. The trail climbs and descends through rolling terrain before reaching the shoreline of Lake Hancock, a peaceful high-elevation pond surrounded by dense forest. Moose and waterfowl sightings are possible in the early morning or evening. This is a rewarding day hike in the southern Green Mountains for those seeking quiet forest travel, challenging elevation gain, and a scenic backcountry lake.