Hey fellow trail users! I've been sharing my visits to trails across Maine for a couple years for Maine Trail Finder through a blog series called "Enock's Adventures." In 2024, I started visiting trails in Vermont and have the opportunity to share some of my experiences with you here. On one of my trips through Vermont, I had the chance to explore three truly unique trails that stand out not only for their natural beauty, but also for their level of accessibility, and they all happen to be on lands owned by the state of Vermont. Aitken State Forest’s accessible trails, the Boreal Forest Trail at Brighton State Park, and the unforgettable Moose Bog Trail were all amazing in their own way. Keep reading to check out what I found!
Just outside Rutland, Aitken State Forest offers an easy escape into the woods without venturing far from town. The accessible trails here are two short loops with a crushed stone surface that’s firm and stable—great for wheelchair users or anyone looking for a gentle walk in the woods. The trails wind through a mature pine forest that smells amazing, and there’s even a resting area with a small bench to stop at and take in the quiet.
The trails offers just enough elevation change to give a sense of adventure without pushing the limits of accessibility. One thing I appreciate about this spot is how it gives people of all abilities access to a genuine forest experience close to urban amenities.
Next up was the Boreal Forest Trail at Brighton State Park in Island Pond. This trail is a hidden gem. The path takes you into a landscape that feels more like Canada than Vermont, with black spruce, tamarack, and mossy forest floors. The accessible boardwalk is wide and smooth, with railings in certain sections. It was great to see interpretive signage along the way that describes the unique ecology of the boreal biome.
I loved how quiet and remote this trail felt, even though the parking area is just minutes away. It’s perfect for a solo roll, or a peaceful stroll with friends and family.
If you want a one-of-a-kind experience and are up for a bit of a drive, Moose Bog Trail near Ferdinand is absolutely worth it. This trail blew me away.
It’s not fully accessible end-to-end, but the initial section—about a half-mile on a hard-packed path—offers plenty of opportunity to get immersed in the wild. Then, there’s a narrow boardwalk that extends deep into the bog. I was able to make it all the way using my wheelchair, though I’d suggest checking conditions and possibly bringing assistance depending on your setup. I had a hard time getting back up from the boardwalk over the steep switchback. I even had the thought, "No one knows where I am right now and I might have to crawl out of here." Luckily that didn’t happen, but I did have to stop and rest a few times.
The payoff? A stunning, open bog landscape with towering spruce trees, pitcher plants, and an almost otherworldly silence. This is also one of the best places in Vermont to spot rare boreal birds like the gray jay or black-backed woodpecker. Even without spotting those, it felt like I’d traveled into another world.
Each of these trails offers a different flavor of Vermont’s wild landscapes—from mountain forests to wetland bogs—and they show how accessibility and adventure don’t have to be opposites. With thoughtful trail design and good maintenance, more people can experience these amazing places.
If you’re planning your own accessible outdoor adventure in Vermont, definitely add these three trails to your list. Whether you’re a wheelchair user like me, or just looking for a smooth, scenic walk, you’ll find something to love—and you might even find yourself a little more connected to the wild. Also maybe tell people where you are going if you are striking out alone.
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