Blue Ridge Mountain via Canty Trail
Hiking Trail
Hard
4.5 mi
1,598 ft
A classic summer hike between Rutland and Killington with epic views and a waterfall.
The Canty Trail to Blue Ridge Mountain is a classic summit hike and the only route to this 3,250' peak towering over Mendon. The official summit offers epic views, though look for a side trail leading west to an even better overlook of Rutland! Making this hike even more fantastic, there's even a spur trail that leads to a large cascade about 1.6-miles from the trailhead!
While this hike could be considered moderate to an experienced hiker, wet rocks and roots can still be difficult to negotiate. Mud is also likely in the spring, earning Vermont its nickname "Vermud" among thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Despite its status as a summer hike, its speculated that some snowshoe the route during the winter. Early into the hike, you'll pass several abandoned cabins that are likely only used as winter warming huts, or as shelter from summer thunderstorms.
Parking is limited where the trail begins, but the town of Killington suggests finding a spot on the east side Old Turnpike Road, maybe closer to Rt. 4. Make sure you allocate extra time for the road walk, since it could add up to 30 minutes depending on where you park.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
The Canty Trail to Blue Ridge Mountain is a classic summit hike and the only route to this 3,250' peak towering over Mendon. The official summit offers epic views, though look for a side trail leading west to an even better overlook of Rutland! Making this hike even more fantastic, there's even a spur trail that leads to a large cascade about 1.6-miles from the trailhead!
While this hike could be considered moderate to an experienced hiker, wet rocks and roots can still be difficult to negotiate. Mud is also likely in the spring, earning Vermont its nickname "Vermud" among thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Despite its status as a summer hike, its speculated that some snowshoe the route during the winter. Early into the hike, you'll pass several abandoned cabins that are likely only used as winter warming huts, or as shelter from summer thunderstorms.
Parking is limited where the trail begins, but the town of Killington suggests finding a spot on the east side Old Turnpike Road, maybe closer to Rt. 4. Make sure you allocate extra time for the road walk, since it could add up to 30 minutes depending on where you park.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Route and Elevation
Segments
Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
---|---|---|---|
Stone Hollow Climb | 1.87 mi | 1,424 ft | 14.4% |
Blue Ridge Canty descent | 1.59 mi | -1,342 ft | -15.9% |