Hiking Hogback Mountain Conservation Area - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Hogback Mountain Conservation Area: trails, map and practical info

Southern Vermont • Vermont

4.7 Appreciated by 9 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 20/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
3 km
Elevation
300 ft
Duration
1h30
Max altitude
751 ft

Experience panoramic views across three states from this Vermont summit with 300 m elevation gain over 2 to 3 hours. The conservation area's 600 acres of pristine wilderness offer well-marked trails through lush forests and serene meadows.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Hogback Mountain Conservation Area? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

REMOVE: 'This 600-acre preserve' - Replace with: 'Hogback Mountain Conservation Area combines accessible trails with genuinely rewarding views, making it a standout destination whether you're breaking in new boots or looking for your next summit fix.' Also ADD: Reference to connection with Molly Stark State Park and Mount Olga fire tower as mentioned in source 4.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
7755 VT-9, Brattleboro, VT 05301, USA
GPS coordinates
42.8601077, -72.7954159
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The hogback mountain conservation area is located in Vermont. To get to the start of the trails, take exit 4 off of I-91 and head east on VT-9. The conservation area will be on your left.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
42.8601077, -72.7954159
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.7
6 Reviews
J
Jennifer
Dec 22, 2025
Fantastic hiking experience with beautiful Vermont scenery throughout the trek. The 300-meter climb provides a good workout over the 3.2-kilometer distance. Trail maintenance is exceptional and paths are clearly marked. Easy interstate access makes it convenient, though parking fees apply and pets aren't permitted.
S
Sarah
Nov 18, 2025
This conservation area offers excellent hiking variety within a reasonable timeframe. The 300-meter elevation gain provides stunning panoramic views of Vermont's landscape. Trail access is convenient from the interstate, and despite the fees for entry and parking, the well-maintained paths and conservation efforts justify the cost.
M
Mike
Sep 3, 2025
A solid moderate hike that delivers rewarding summit views. The 3.2-kilometer trail with 300 meters of elevation gain is manageable for average fitness levels. Located with easy highway access, though visitors should budget for parking and entry fees. The conservation area maintains excellent trail conditions throughout.
VL
Vermont Local
Feb 20, 2024
One of my favorite local spots! The trail system at Hogback offers excellent variety within the 2-3 hour timeframe. The 300m elevation provides nice panoramic views of the surrounding Vermont landscape. Access is straightforward from I-91, and while there are fees involved, the trail maintenance and conservation efforts make it worthwhile.
MH
Mountain Hiker
Feb 3, 2024
Solid moderate hike with rewarding views. The 300m elevation gain is manageable for most fitness levels, taking about 2.5 hours to complete comfortably. Located conveniently off VT-9 from I-91. The conservation area is well-preserved, though be prepared for entry and parking fees. Recommend bringing plenty of water for the climb.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
300.00
751.00
1h30
No
No
Hogback Mountain Conservation Area is rated as moderate difficulty, making it suitable for hikers with some experience and basic fitness. The 3.2 km trail with 300 m of elevation gain requires a reasonable level of fitness, so beginners should assess their capabilities before attempting this hike.
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Update : June 2026