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Wiessner Woods: Meadow Trail Loop

Short, family-friendly nature trail with a view of Vermont's tallest mountain and a chance at spotting wildlife.

Hiking Easy

Distance
1.9 km
Ascent
43 m
Descent
43 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
345 m
High Point
389 m
Gradient
Wiessner Woods: Meadow Trail Loop Map

In the Wiessner Woods you’ll find a peaceful retreat in nature. It’s a protected forest with meadows, streams, and abundant wildlife. You may see birds, amphibians, deer, and maybe even a fox. Of the several trails in the Wiessner Woods network, Meadow Trail is perhaps the most popular. It offers a nice mix of close-up nature and distant views in a short loop that’s great for families with small children. Dogs are allowed if kept on a leash.

Description

Begin by crossing a green lawn near the trailhead, then continue into the woods. To complete this loop you’ll follow Meadow and Main Street trails, but you can extend your hike using other paths in the preserve as well. Along the way you’ll see groves of tall pines, wetlands where frogs and salamanders lay their eggs, and stone walls that date to the 1800s. At one point you’ll have a view over a hillside meadow toward Mount Mansfield–the tallest mountain in Vermont.

The Wiessner Woods are owned by a nonprofit and maintained by volunteers. Access is free of charge, but you might consider donating a small amount to Stowe Land Trust if you enjoy your walk in the woods.

Sources: https://www.stowelandtrust.org/conserved/properties/wiessner-woods/ https://stowecountryhomes.com/attractions/wiessner-woods/

Difficulty

Easy

Walking along a well-kept trail that’s mostly flat. No obstacles are present.

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between April and November

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Historical
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area