Hike to Vermont's Sterling Pond
Added by Shannon Kalahan
Enjoy beautiful views of surrounding valleys and mountains on this short hike. Once you make it to the pond, you can extend the hike with a 1.4 mile loop around it's perimeter. If you're thinking of bringing your pole, this is Vermont's highest elevation trout pond (permits required).
Sterling Pond trail begins across the street from a parking area on Route 108, about 3 miles south of Smugglers' Notch Resort. Keep in mind that the road is closed to vehicles once the snow falls, so if you want to hike this area in the winter, you'll have to park about 40 minutes away and hike in to the trailhead.
This trail is a short 1.1 miles each way, with a 1000' gain in elevation. It's steep, slick, and the trail is characterized by large boulders and heavy tree roots sprawling across the trail. Although the terrain can be difficult at times, this is a popular and well-worn trail, so you can often see where roots and boulders have been worn down and shaped into hand holds and stairs. Take advantage of those spots to help you through the elevation gain. Also, if you have knee problems, bring your hiking poles. You'll need them for the trip down.
Because this trail is steep and slippery with some difficult terrain, it may be a challenge for people with compromised health, older adults or very young children.
The first section of trail will give your legs and lungs a huge workout. It's a natural staircase for at least the first ¼ mile. After that, you'll find a few areas that flatten out (relatively speaking) where you can catch your breath as you go.
At the end of the mile, you'll come to a t-intersection. Turn left to find the pond (0.1 mile) or right to join up with Vermont's Long Trail.
Sterling Pond is a scenic, peaceful place nestled among the mountains, surrounded by pine trees and some dramatic rock formations. Even if you stopped here, the hike would be worth the trip.
That being said, the view from the top of the trail is lovely. To the left of the open shore, you'll find a steep staircase. Follow that trail (along, but above the pond's edge) to the warming hut and ski lift, and take it all in.
Print out this helpful park map to get a better idea of the surrounding trails.
Go Pro.
We're committed to building a better, more inclusive home for the modern outdoors. Go PRO to support our mission and get benefits like gear deals, no ads, and more!
Join the communityReviews
Rate this AdventureQuick, Intense Climb With Amazing Views
I hiked this in late fall, 2015 and it was absolutely beautiful! It's a very steep, slippery climb, but faster than I had expected considering the elevation gain. Temperatures dropped the day of my hike and wind chills was extreme with the wind whipping up the bare ski trails, so I didn't overnight as intended, but the lean-to & tent platform are nice and the warming shelter is right there too. Again, great views of Sterling Pond and the valley down the ski trails!
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
Stay Nearby
Jericho, Vermont
Davis Farm Guest Suite
From $102/night
Jericho, Vermont
Davis Farm Guest House
From $250/night
Hyde Park, Vermont
Belle Vista Farm
From $125/night
Waterbury, Vermont
Rachel Lane Getaway
From $99/night
Nearby Adventures
Hike Mt. Mansfield via the Long Trail
Explore Smugglers' Notch
Hike to Bingham Falls
Hike Mt. Hunger
© 2021 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy