Trails & Conditions
At Merck Forest & Farmland Center, our network of trails invites you to discover the natural wonders of our conserved Vermont landscape. With over 35 miles of trails winding through forests, fields, and alongside our working farm, there's a perfect outdoor experience waiting for every visitor.
Our Trails
Discover the natural beauty of Vermont's landscape through our diverse network of trails. From short family walks to challenging full-day adventures, Merck Forest's pathways offer something for every experience level. Each trail provides a unique window into our working forests and farmland, giving visitors the chance to witness sustainable land management practices firsthand while enjoying spectacular views and peaceful natural settings.
Whether you're seeking a vigorous hike to a mountain summit, a gentle stroll through pastoral scenes, or an educational journey through managed forest lands, our well-maintained trails invite you to explore at your own pace. All distances and times indicated below represent round trips starting from our Visitor Center.
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Trail Highlights
Take a hike — ride a horse — ski or snowshoe — in the diverse landscapes of the Taconic Hills. Please check in and out at the kiosk located near the Visitor Center.
Reminder: Cellphone and GPS services are unreliable around the property.
Trail Map & Property Guide
Our detailed trail map helps you navigate Merck Forest's 3,500 acres with confidence. The map shows all marked trails, roads, cabins, lean-tos, water sources, and points of interest across our property.
Using Your Map
All trails begin at the Visitor Center, with Old Town Road serving as the main artery through the property. Yellow areas indicate farm and field spaces, while blue markers show water sources and ponds. Trail intersections are clearly marked to help with navigation as you explore.
Getting a Map
Download a digital version below, pick up a physical copy at the Visitor Center, or learn more about how to upload our map to your Avenza App.
For trail updates or to report map corrections, please email: info@merckforest.org
Trail Conditions: Community Reports
Stay informed with real-time trail updates from fellow explorers! Below are the most recent observations from our community of hikers, runners, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers who've recently experienced our 35+ miles of trails.
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