This is a moderate, but steady climb to the summit of Baker Peak (2850’), with wide views west over the Valley of Vermont to the Adirondacks and south to the Taconic range.

Hike description:

From the trailhead, the hike follows the Griffith Lake Trail uphill along the grade of an old woods road. At 0.9mi the trail enters the Big Branch Wilderness Area. At 1.9mi. and 1300’, near the head of a ravine, the hike leaves the Lake Trail and joins the Baker Peak Trail continuing uphill with a moderate grade until it nears the Long Trail and begins a steeper ascent quickly climbing 500’ to the summit. Return the same route. (Optional return via the AT and Griffith Lake, depending on conditions and group consensus, will add 3 miles and approx. 2 hrs. to the trip.)

Total distance:

5.8mi round trip. Elevation gain: 2200’

Estimated hiking time:

5 hrs, plus 1 hr for breaks, lunch, etc.

Equipment:

Snowshoes are required. Traction/MicroSpikes are recommended for icy conditions. A head lamp/ flashlight is also recommended (sunset is around 4:30p).

Please dress accordingly for a day in winter conditions, and wear insulated boots with thick socks. Also bring along snacks, water, lunch and anything else you may require for the day. If you are new to winter hiking, be sure to check out the Gear List (click the link at the very bottom of this web page, right above the copyright notice) and if any questions do not hesitate to ask.

Meet at the U.S. Forest Service trailhead parking lot on South End Rd. in the town of Mt. Tabor, VT. Turn east onto South End Rd. from U.S. Rte. 7 exactly 2.0 miles south of the crossroad at Danby village. Note: there is minimal signage for South End Rd. and it is easy to miss the turn. Continue 0.5mi on South End Rd. past the town center to the trailhead parking lot on the left.