If you’ve had your eye on visiting New England’s Upper Valley, there is no doubt you’ll want to come for the hiking. The hiking trails, scenery, and weather make it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers. If you’ve ever been to Vermont, you know there are seemingly endless gorgeous views and hiking trails to conquer.
That is why we urge you to check out the Upper Valley and Vermont on your next hiking expedition. Start your journey from the front steps of The Norwich Inn in Norwich, Vermont. We’re located near the Connecticut River and countless hiking trails throughout the Upper Valley, including the Appalachian Trail.
6 Best Hiking Trails In The Upper Valley
Set your sights on these spectacular Upper Valley hiking trails, not far from The Norwich Inn.
- Appalachian Trail: The iconic trail emerges from the woods onto Elm Street and runs down to Main Street. Thru-hikers often stay at the Norwich Inn, which sits a couple blocks off the trail. It’s a trail you don’t want to miss.
- Gile Mountain Trail: The trailhead on Turnpike Road is almost six miles from the inn. One highlight is the short hike to the fire tower, with 360-degree Upper Valley views. This is one of the area’s most popular trails, so it gets crowded on weekends.
- Moose Mountain: You can reach Moose Mountain via the Appalachian Trail. You get a variety of views. The South Peak has some of the best views in the area, while the North Peak is Hanover’s high point at 2,300 feet.
- Quechee Gorge Trail: This trail runs along Vermont’s deepest gorge. The river sits 165 feet below. The trail isn’t long, and it does take you down to the river. It’s a quick trail to complete on your way to another trail.
- Mount Tom South Peak and Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park: According to the National Park Service, this is the oldest professionally managed forest in the U.S. It’s a unique place to hike, following 1870s carriage roads. You can also get a panoramic view of Woodstock.
- Mount Cardigan via West Ridge Trail: One of the best payoffs for hikers is along the West Ridge Trail. The trail climbs about 1,200 feet up to a 1924 steel fire tower. You’ll get a perfect, unobstructed view of the Upper Valley.
See The Upper Valley For Yourself
Strap on your hiking shoes and get to know The Upper Valley and Vermont in the best way: from its hiking trails. The trails are easy to reach, especially when you stay at The Norwich Inn. We are just a few blocks from the historic Appalachian Trail, and you can enjoy Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse at The Norwich Inn after a long day of hiking.
The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, so your well-deserved Upper Valley getaway certainly won’t be short on historical significance. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our lovely inn (or check availability online).
