Burnt Rock Mountain via Hedgehog Brook Trail

Standing at 3,168 feet, Burnt Rock Mountain is a smaller but beautiful peak in the Green Mountains just south of the more prominent Camels Hump. The trail offers a little bit of everything, from stream and small brook crossings, steep rocky climbs with wooden stairs, granite scrambles and grand vistas in all directions. Access to this mountain can be accessed from the Long Trail or via the shorter Hedgehog Trail. The Hedgehog Trail provides access to the Long Trail from the eastern side of the Green Mountains in the Mad River Valley. This trail is entirely on private lands, and it is only by the landowner's good graces that it is open to the public. The Green Mountain Club maintains the trailhead and trail. At the trailhead, sign in at the trail registry, then descend the wooden steps to cross Shepards Brook. From here the trails climbs gradually as it weaves through the trees and over a few brooks. After about a half mile, the trail starts to climb quickly. There will be a few sections with wooden stair ladders to help people navigate. The Hedgehog Trail ends on top of a wooded ridge where it meets up with the Long Trail. Take a right north on the Long Trail and follow it along the wooded ridge and up rock and root staircases to where the tree line opens up to large granite slabs and expansive vistas to the east and south. Follow the white blazes found on the open granite faces and rocky ledges to the summit of Burnt Rock Mountain. There is no specific marker at the summit, only a rocky point partially surrounded by trees. Better views can be had slightly back down the trail to the south to the open rock faces. The mountains of Camels Hump, Ira Allen and Ethan Allen can be seen through the trees to the north. The Mad River Valley stretches to the east and Mount Ellen, and the slopes of both Mad River Glen and Sugarbush ski resorts can be seen to the south. To the west, glimpses of Lake Champlain can be seen on the horizon. Note: Hiking near the summit is all on granite rock. Wet rocks become extremely slippery, and sure footing can be difficult to attain. Hiking this trail in wet weather is not recommended.