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Directions:
General Description: Situated on the Northern end of the Green Mountain Range, Mt. Mansfield State Forest encompasses over a dozen mountain peaks including Mt. Mansfield. At an elevation of 4,393 feet above sea level, it is the highest peak in Vermont. The mostly mountainous terrain is comprised of dense forestland, open fields, swift rivers and streams. Several large bodies of water such as the Waterbury Reservoir, Bear Pond and Lake of the Clouds are also part of the mix. In such a richness of habitat, black bear, moose, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, ruffed grouse, fur bearers, peregrine falcons, fish, and many species of songbirds flourish. Mt. Mansfield State Forest has almost 200 miles of officially designated trails (only one is designated for mountain bike use). Additionally, there are 40 miles of State Forest Highway that are open to hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Underhill, Smugglers Notch and and Little River State Park campgrounds are conveniently located within the forest. In addition, a day-use area is located in Waterbury Center on the Waterbury Reservoir. In the area surrounding the Forest, lots of other recreational facilities can be found, including the many inns, restaurants, lodges and hotels in Stowe and Cambridge.
The Trail: Cotton Brook Trail The only "trail" designated for mountain bike use is the 11 mile Cotton Brook Trail located in the Cottonbrook basin above Waterbury. This 11 mile loop is an experimental trail and is being monitored by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. It climbs on Cotton Brook Road, a working logging road for almost 7 miles and then travels on a double-track snowmobile and cross-country ski trail for the remainder of the loop. During mud season, in early Spring, the trail stays wet into June and shouldn't be ridden. The best time to ride here is from late June - mid November. Starting from the parking area, continue up Cotton Brook Road and go around the gate (trail markers are white signs with the silhouette of a mountain biker). From here it's all about climbing for 6.7 miles. There will be several stream crossings (watch out for logging trucks), and eventually you'll reach the top where you will be rewarded for your hard work with some nice views. Continue straight. After a short descent, at the Y intersection, take a hard left onto the snowmobile trail, marked with VAST signs. From here it's a tricky, steep descent. The trail switchbacks for a while before dropping to the valley floor. Use caution. Be prepared to get off and walk as there may be washouts. My philosophy is " Live to bike another day!", NOT "The good die young!" At the bottom, cross the bridge and continue along the stream until the trail bends dramatically left. What comes down must now ride back up to Cotton Brook Road. No sympathy from me! From there, return the way you came, to the start.
For more information: State of Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Phone: 802-476-0181
Little River State Park Park Phone: 802-244-7103
Underhill State Park Park Phone: 802-899-3022
Smugglers Notch State Park Park Phone: 802-253-4014
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Directions & Trail
Description
