Hike Vermont - Faulkner Trail, Woodstock VT

Today in the Hike Vermont series, I’m introducing you to Faulkner Trail, one of my family’s favorite trails to hike. Set in the Marsh Billings Rockefeller Historical National Park in Woodstock, Vermont, Faulkner Trail is a series of switchbacks leading up the south side of Mt Tom to the summit. This is a relatively easy trail (there’s a short section of more difficult terrain just before the summit) that is suitable for kids, and dogs are welcome on leash! Waiting at the summit are gorgeous views of the village and surrounding mountains, as well as one of the most-loved winter landmarks of Woodstock.

How to Get There

Faulkner Trail is an out-and-back that starts at Faulkner Park, located on Mountain Avenue in Woodstock, VT. There is street parking available in front of the park, but it is also located within Woodstock, making the trailhead a short walk from the village.

Distance

This is a relatively short hike, about 2.8 miles out-and-back. The elevation gain is 530 feet, but the trail is mainly a series of switchbacks, so it won’t feel like a challenging climb.

Hiking Ability

Faulkner Trail is one of our family favorites because it is so kid-friendly! The lower half of the trail is fairly wide, and packed earth (usually with a bed of pine needles). Once you reach the compass bench (see the picture below!), the trail begins to get a little narrower and rockier…keep your eyes on your path to watch out for roots and tripping hazards.

The switchbacks end at a lookout over the village below, but you have not reached the summit at this point! It’s a great spot to take a break before the last scramble to the top. My boys were so proud the day they graduated from stopping at this first lookout to being able to make it all the way to the top.

To get to the summit from this first lookout, it’s a short hike up the rocky outcrop on the south side of the mountain, about 100 yards. There is a guide rope to help hoist yourself up if necessary, and then you are rewarded with the views. The lookout you are climbing to has views of the village of Woodstock, and on the other side of the summit you are looking northwest over Route 4 to Killington.

Recommendations

If you’ve been to Woodstock during the winter months, you will have seen the star glowing at night. Not in the sky, but on top of Mt. Tom, a huge star illuminated at night and visible from the village. It’s a village icon and fun to see up close and personal.

If you want to add on a little site-seeing in the national park, walk down the wide carriage road leading away from the summit and follow it down to the Pogue, a man-made pond in the middle of the park, where you’ll see all kinds of wildlife and can enjoy a nice flat stroll around, enjoying the views from all sides.