Discover Stratton through three areas of interest: protected landscapes, trails and outdoor activities, and music. The town lies entirely within the proclamation boundary of the Green Mountain National Forest. The following options bring these different highlights to life.

Forest, Wilderness, and Long-Distance Trails

Part of the Lye Brook Wilderness Area lies in the town’s northwest corner. Both the Appalachian Trail and the Long Trail cross Stratton from north to south. This places two long-distance trails alongside the town’s different protected-area features. Together, they shape the town’s landscape and hiking appeal, offering clear guidance for anyone who wants to get to know Stratton by exploring its trails.

Hiking and Trails in Town

One specific mountain hike leads up Stratton Mountain: the hike is 7.6 miles long, with 1,735 feet of elevation gain. A fire tower stands on the summit of Stratton Mountain, and hikers can climb it. The mileage describes the route length, while the elevation figure describes the gain; these are two different details to consider when planning a hike. In the broader travel region of Windham County, the Stratton Mountain Fire Warden’s Cabin is also located near the summit of Stratton Mountain. Built in 1928, the small wood-frame structure adds a historical perspective to the mountain. This places hiking and architectural history side by side as different ways to experience the same mountain.

The Stratton Recreation Area has hiking trails and cross-country ski trails, as well as a sledding hill. Stratton Town Forest also has hiking trails, along with biking trails. In addition, numerous snowmobile trails run through Stratton. To choose by activity, note the distinctions: cross-country skiing and sledding are in the Recreation Area, biking trails are in the Town Forest, and snowmobile trails run throughout the town.

Winter Sports on the Mountain

Stratton Mountain Resort occupies the northeastern part of Stratton. Above 2,500 feet, it uses land for ski lifts, trails, paths, and related purposes. The resort has 99 trails for skiing and snowboarding. Nighttime snowshoe tours are offered at the Nordic Center; the resort also offers a UTV tour. When choosing a winter sports experience, note the distinction: the resort offers downhill skiing and snowboarding, while cross-country ski trails and a sledding hill are part of the Stratton Recreation Area.

Music and Events

Stratton Mountain Music offers a year-round music scene, with events in indoor and outdoor venues; Stratton Mountain Resort also offers outdoor concerts. The annual HarvestFest Weekend includes Brewfest and a Chili Cook-Off. The year-round music scene and the annual festival weekend offer different occasions to visit. If you’re planning your trip around HarvestFest, check the specific event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Putney, Dummerston, Whitingham, Brattleboro, West Dover, Wardsboro, Newfane, Rockingham

For the broader travel overview: Windham County.