Wrights Mountain: A Lovely Vermont Foliage Hike
- Stephen Warner
- Oct 2, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 3
Nestled near Bradford, Vermont, this trail offers a breathtaking vantage point of Vermont's rolling landscape. Whether you're exploring during peak autumn colors or after a fresh blanket of snow, the stunning scenery is guaranteed to captivate. With multiple routes to choose from, every visit offers a new adventure, making it a spot you'll want to return to time and again.
Trail Info
Trailhead Name | Wrights Mountain Trail |
Distance | 1.7 miles / 2.7 km (out and back) |
Estimated time | 1-2 hours |
Elevation gain | 390 ft / 120 m |
Highest point | 1,821 ft / 555 m (Wrights Mountain) |
Permits / fees | No |
Parking | Dirt lot |
Toilets? | No |
Dog friendly? | Yes |
Know before you go
There are several junctions along this trail. Everything is well marked, but to reach the Wrights Mountain lookout, ensure you stick to the Wright's Mountain Trail and Appreciation Trail.
This trail can be accessed year round. I did this hike during the fall, but the moderate trail features and multiple access points make this a great area for all-season hiking.
This is part of a larger trail system. The Wrights Mountain trail system has 10+ miles of trails, giving you ample opportunity to explore other areas or reach Wright's via other paths.
Alternate routes / other trails nearby
Distance: 3.4 miles (5.5 km)
Elevation gain: 1.220 ft (370 m)
Distance: 3.2 miles (5.2 km)
Elevation gain: 970 ft (295 m)
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
Elevation gain: 350 ft (110 m)
Details: Another popular destination within the Wright's Mountain trail system that features caves and boulders.
The Trail
Our approach followed the easiest route, starting on the official Wright's Mountain Trailhead along Wright's Mountain Road. The parking lot is moderately sized so there shouldn't be too much of an issue in finding a spot.
And we're off! The trail was covered in fallen leaves, giving it a true fall vibe. Hopefully, enough of those colorful leaves are still hanging on for some great views of the foliage at the vista.
There are a few junctions along the trail. As long as you follow signs for Wright's Mountain or Appreciation Way you will reach the Wright's Mountain Lookout. The other trails pictured above (Ernie's Trail, Sylvia's Trail), will lead you down the mountain, away from the peak.
Even on a short hike like this, there were a few gems along the way, including this bench lookout—the best seat in the house!
Red cabin marks the vista. Just a bit further...
Gorgeous! Cue the foliage montage.
Perfect framing!
Postcard material!
Pure awe!
SS Reflections
Despite having experienced two New England autumns, I felt like I hadn't fully experienced the true 'wow' factor of the region's foliage—until Wright's Mountain. For such a short hike, the payoff was beyond worth it. The palette of greens, golds, oranges, and reds cascading over the rolling Vermont hills was breathtaking. It left me eager to return for more leaf-peeping whenever I get the chance.
Other helpful resources
Trail Finder's description of the entire Wright's Mountain trail network