The South Beach and South Shore Trails create a loop hike that travels out to a stunning view of the cliffs of Mount Pisgah and the shores of the Lake Willoughby. The South Beach Trail is quite flat as it skirts the edge of the lake and then goes uphill to meet the South Shore Trail. The South Shore Trail is more forested and heads away from the lake before reaching the West Cove swimming area*.
The Cliff Trail dead ends at a view over the lake. It does not proceed onto the talus slope. This slope can be unstable and is not managed for public use.
* Note - The West Cove swimming area is often frequented by guests without clothing during the summer months.
For more information about the park visit the Northwoods Stewardship Center or Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation online or contact:
From Barton, drive north on VT-16/Eastern Avenue for 7 miles. Turn right onto VT-5A South and continue for 5.1 miles; then at the south end of the lake, turn right into the parking lots on the south shore. The trailhead is off the parking lot.
It is mud season in Vermont. Even if a trail is marked as open, pay attention to trail conditions. If you encounter mud or ice, turn around. Come back once the trail has had time to dry out.
One or more trails in this system is currently closed due to muddy or wet conditions. Please help to protect our trails by not walking on them when they are soft and easily damaged. Learn more.
If any trails are open, they will be listed on the Details tab.
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