Things to Do in Big Branch Wilderness
Big Branch Wilderness, a wilderness area in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, encompasses 6,725 acres of diverse landscapes. The terrain features steep slopes and summits of the Green Mountains, with forests dominated by northern hardwoods, red spruce, balsam fir, and hemlock. Key natural features include Big Branch Stream, Lake Brook, and Elbow Swamp, providing varied environments for outdoor exploration. The area supports several sports like hiking, road cycling, and touring cycling, offering a range of experiences within and around its…
22
Routes
4.8
(10)
Average rating
138
People visited
8
hikers
10.7km
03:32
650m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
5.89km
01:38
140m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
33.5km
10:00
1,050m
1,050m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.77km
01:13
250m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
13
riders
44.7km
02:34
590m
590m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(1)
11
riders
38.0km
02:29
510m
510m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
9
riders
46.9km
02:40
710m
710m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4
riders
36.5km
01:41
340m
340m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5
riders
72.7km
06:53
1,230m
1,230m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
14.7km
01:20
200m
200m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
2
riders
39.7km
03:00
450m
450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
62.0km
04:52
1,040m
1,040m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Big Branch Wilderness?
Big Branch Wilderness is a 6,725-acre designated wilderness area located within Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. It is characterized by steep slopes, Green Mountain summits, and diverse forests of northern hardwoods, red spruce, balsam fir, and hemlock.
What outdoor activities are available in Big Branch Wilderness?
Big Branch Wilderness offers opportunities for hiking, road cycling, and touring cycling. The area has 1 route listed on komoot, with an average rating of 4.96 stars from more than 400 visitors.
Are there hiking trails in Big Branch Wilderness?
Yes, Big Branch Wilderness is a popular hiking destination. The Appalachian Trail/Long Trail traverses the area for approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers), and several side trails lead to features like Baker Peak and Griffith Lake. For more information, consult the Hiking in Big Branch Wilderness guide.
What are some notable hiking routes in Big Branch Wilderness?
Notable hiking routes include the Baker Peak Trail, Griffith Lake Trail, Lake Trail, and the Old Job Trail. The Bakerhill Peak – Griffith Lake loop from Danby is a popular moderate 8.1-mile (13-kilometer) trail.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly hikes in Big Branch Wilderness?
Specific easy hikes are available within Big Branch Wilderness. Hikers can find suitable routes by exploring the Easy hikes in Big Branch Wilderness guide.
Can I cycle in Big Branch Wilderness?
Bicycles are not permitted within the designated wilderness boundaries of Big Branch Wilderness. However, the broader Green Mountain National Forest and surrounding Vermont areas offer extensive road and touring cycling opportunities outside the wilderness. Cyclists can find routes in the Road Cycling Routes in Big Branch Wilderness guide.
What natural features can be found in Big Branch Wilderness?
Key natural features include Big Branch Stream and Lake Brook, which support trout populations. Elbow Swamp is a significant wetland on the eastern edge of the wilderness. Baker Peak offers rewarding views.
What wildlife inhabits Big Branch Wilderness?
Big Branch Wilderness provides habitat for diverse wildlife, including wild turkeys, beavers, moose, white-tailed deer, and black bears. Its role as a temperate broadleaf and mixed forest contributes to its rich biodiversity.
What is the highest point in Big Branch Wilderness?
Several summits in Big Branch Wilderness exceed 2,500 feet (762 meters). Mount Tabor is the highest point, reaching 3,043 feet (927 meters).
How popular is Big Branch Wilderness on komoot?
Big Branch Wilderness has received an average rating of 4.96 out of 5 stars from more than 400 visitors on komoot. There is 1 route available for various sports.
Where can I find official information for Big Branch Wilderness?
Official information for Big Branch Wilderness, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, can be found on the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests website. The official website is fs.usda.gov/gmf/.
How can I contact the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests office?
The Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests Supervisor's Office can be contacted by phone at (802) 747-6700 for inquiries regarding Big Branch Wilderness.
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