This is a one-way hike, north to south, and we will spot a car at the end of the hike in order to return to the start. From Vt. Rte 103, the trail travels south on a suspension bridge over the Mill River at the head of Clarendon Gorge. It then climbs steadily 0.7mi to a lookout with views to the west. The trail follows a ridge for a mile, before ascending to the Minerva Hinchey Shelter at 2.6mi. The trail descends, then shortly joins an abandoned road that leads 0.9 mi. to a former home site at Patch Hollow on the north end of a beaver pond. From Patch Hollow, switchbacks lead 0.6 mi. to the height of land on Bear Mountain (2100’), where the trail follows a ridge along the wooded crest of the mountain. It then descends steadily over switchbacks on the steeper south slope with views to the south through the trees. At 5.2mi and 1575’, a short spur leads west to a vista from a domed ledge. The trail continues its descent 1.1mi to reach the end of the hike at Vt. Rte 140.

Total distance: 6.3mi. Elevation gain: 1430’.

Estimated hiking time: 4-5 hrs, plus 1 hr for breaks, lunch, etc.

Please dress accordingly for a day in spring conditions, wear appropriate boots with thick socks. Also bring along snacks, water, lunch and anything else you may require for the day