One of the best things to do near Brattleboro on your next visit is to climb through the lush hardwood forests to a fire tower with stunning 360-degree panoramic views. Hiking at Molly Stark State Park is a rewarding, moderate hike in Wilmington, Vermont. With options to extend your hike to the Hogback Mountain Conservation Area or the Town of Wilmington Shearer Hill Trail, you can enjoy a leisurely hour or so hike or a more adventurous afternoon.
Traveling from Brattleboro to Molly Stark State Park along Vermont Route 9 is one of the most captivating and scenic drives through the heart of Southern Vermont. You’ll journey through the West River Valley, through charming historic villages and vibrant downtowns, while enjoying the verdant views of the Green Mountains National Forest. There are so many lovely hikes to explore in this area!
If you’re passionate about hiking and the outdoors, our Vermont Bed and Breakfast is the perfect retreat. Step out through our garden and onto a network of scenic trails. We offer six distinctive guest rooms in a historic home. Each morning, you’ll be treated to a hearty multi-course gourmet breakfast, setting you up for the ultimate start to your day exploring the beauty of Vermont. Reserve your room today!
Hiking at Molly Stark State Park
Molly Stark State Park was the site of a farmstead in the 1800s, and evidence of its former agricultural use remains today. Old machinery and stone walls remain. In 1960, it became an official state park named for the wife of Revolutionary War General John Stark. Mt. Olga is so named for the woman who donated 48 acres to expand the park.
The Mt. Olga Trail is a moderate 1.7-mile loop hike marked by blue blazes. The trail begins at the park office and crosses over a small brook before ascending through woodlands. At the summit, the fire watch tower is open for visitors to view the stunning panoramic views.
From the steel tower, hikers are rewarded with 360-degree views of the southern Vermont Green Mountains, the Berkshires to the south in Massachusetts, and Mount Monadnock to the east in New Hampshire. Also visible on a clear day is the Searsburg wind farm to the west, and Mount Snow can be seen to the northwest.
After hiking at Molly Stark State Park, here are some other options to explore:
- Adjacent to Molly Stark State Park, Hogback Mountain Conservation Area offers several trails, including the Tower Trail, which links to the state park. On a clear day, you can enjoy a 100-mile view of Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.
- The town of Wilmington has miles of trails for hikers of all abilities. The Shearer Hill trail also connects to the western portion of the Mt. Olga trail in Molly Stark State Park.
- The West River Valley Trails follow a former railroad through the valley, walking any of the 36 miles connecting the towns of Brattleboro, South Londonderry, Dummerston, and more. This scenic flat trail is primarily wooded and suitable for hiking and cycling.
- Brattleboro has several casual walking trails, including the Retreat Trails, that leave directly from behind our Vermont Bed and Breakfast.
Unwind at Our Vermont Bed and Breakfast in Brattleboro
Southern Vermont is the perfect summer getaway, offering everything that makes for a romantic escape: scenic vistas, abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, and charming small towns. After exploring the hiking trails at Molly Stark State Park, visit historic Brattleboro, located at the confluence of the West and Connecticut Rivers. It beautifully combines Vermont’s natural beauty, charming character, and vibrant artistic energy.
Our historic Vermont Bed and Breakfast in Brattleboro is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring outdoors. The intimate atmosphere allows couples to enjoy both privacy and comfort. The Inn on Putney Road is situated in a peaceful location, surrounded by extensive and beautiful grounds with access to the Retreat Trails, making it an ideal spot for romantic strolls. The living room, shown above, is a cozy place to relax with a glass of wine or challenge each other to a game of pool.
Our award-winning accommodations are just the beginning of what sets our Vermont Bed and Breakfast apart. What truly makes The Inn on Putney Road special is the genuine, welcoming hospitality you’ll feel from the moment you arrive. From gourmet breakfasts to assistance planning, we’re here to make your stay unforgettable. Looking to explore the outdoors? Add our “Take a Hike” enhancement, and we’ll prepare a delicious picnic for your excursion to Molly Stark State Park. Book your stay now!
