Stratton

Woodlands, hiking trails, and winter sports are among the many sides of Stratton. The town lies entirely within the proclamation boundary of the Green Mountain National Forest. Part of the Lye Brook Wilderness Area is located in Stratton’s northwest corner. The area is also home to Stratton Mountain and offers everything from hiking and biking trails to ski runs, snowshoe hikes, and music events.

Hiking Trails and Mountain Views

The Appalachian Trail and the Long Trail cross Stratton from north to south. Both routes give the town particular significance for hiking enthusiasts: two well-known long-distance trails pass through the area. If you’d like to plan a specific mountain hike into your trip, Stratton Mountain offers a 7.6-mile hike with 1,735 feet of elevation gain. There is a fire tower at the summit that hikers can climb.

There are also a variety of trails beyond this mountain hike: the Stratton Recreation Area has hiking trails and cross-country ski trails. Stratton Town Forest has hiking and biking trails. When planning your trip, you can decide whether you’d prefer to focus on hiking, biking, or including cross-country skiing. Stratton is also crisscrossed by numerous snowmobile trails—another option for guests interested in motorized winter activities.

Winter Sports and Outdoor Activities

Stratton Mountain Resort occupies the northeastern part of Stratton. It uses areas above 2,500 feet for ski lifts, trails, runs, and related purposes. The resort offers 99 runs for skiing and snowboarding. If winter sports are a priority when choosing a vacation rental, you can consider these resort activities an important part of your stay in Stratton.

The Stratton Recreation Area adds a sledding hill to the options. Snowshoe hikes are offered at night at the Nordic Center. Stratton Mountain Resort also offers a UTV tour. These activities are quite different: they range from a guided nighttime snowshoe hike to sledding or a UTV ride. Which one interests you can help shape the focus of your trip.

Music and Special Events

Stratton Mountain Music hosts events year-round, both indoors and outdoors. Stratton Mountain Resort also holds outdoor concerts. Music events are therefore among the experiences to consider when planning a vacation, alongside hiking and winter sports.

HarvestFest Weekend adds its own distinctive touch, featuring the annual Brewfest and Chili Cook-Off. If you enjoy including food and drink events in your trip, this is another reason to explore Stratton’s event calendar. In the wider travel area, the Stratton Mountain Fire Warden’s Cabin is also located near the summit of Stratton Mountain. This small wood-frame structure was built in 1928.

When choosing where to stay, you can first consider which side of Stratton appeals to you most: its long-distance trails and mountain hike, winter sports, trails in the Town Forest, or music and events. More town pages: Putney, Rockingham, Brattleboro, West Dover, Wardsboro, Whitingham, Dummerston and Newfane.

See the broader travel guide: Windham County.