Mt. Pisgah Out-and-Back

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · Views · Wildlife

A well-traveled, steep climb interspersed with more mellow segments and overlooks to the south, west, and north.

Bring cash for roadside ice cream just off of Route 2 in Danville with delicious maple creemees (Abbi's Ice Cream). Bug spray could be helpful for early summer outings (if you're into that). Not recommended when wet or raining.

The parking area and trailhead is located on the east side of Route 5. If you reach the lake, you've gone too far. The trail is well-marked with blue blazes. Begin by crossing some swampland on reliable yet dilapidated boardwalks (the Mosquito King welcomes you to his realm).

Expect numerous extended climbs, followed by some fairly flat sections. The first viewpoint to the west is located at about the one-mile mark. You are near the summit once you begin to encounter exposed granite. This section also offers a view to the south of Burke Mountain and New Hampshire on a clear day.

Do not expect a view from the summit (marked by a small sign)—gently descend a couple hundred yards along North Trail until you reach a sign indicating a western overlook. Proceed down a steep, gullied path to a cliff-top for great views of the lake.

Back on the North Trail, continue another couple hundred yards north to another west-facing lookout, and a little further to a lookout facing northwest. Once you are done enjoying the views, hike out (south) down the same path, and mind the exposed granite going downhill.

Nesting peregrine falcons on the cliffs around Lake Willoughby. Depending on the time of year, mosquitos will make their presence known.

Looking west beyond Mt. Hor, you can spot numerous ridgeline wind turbines. Hot topic in VT.