Overview
The Moosalamoo Loop is the signature full-day hike of the northern unit of the Green Mountain National Forest. The 9.0-mile circuit traverses the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, a well-developed 20,000-acre unit with signed trails, a campground, and trail infrastructure that is notably better maintained than many backcountry areas of the forest.
The loop is designed to show off the full range of the Moosalamoo landscape: the waterfalls of the Falls of Lana gorge, open ridge segments with views across the Champlain Valley, and the dense northern hardwood forest that blankets most of the area. The 1,400-foot gain is spread across the circuit, so no single section is punishingly steep, but the mileage and terrain add up to a legitimate full-day commitment.
This route is one of the best moderate-length hikes in Vermont that does not require summit scrambling or Long Trail experience. It is popular on fall weekends when the foliage at ridge level is at its peak.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: Lake Dunmore approach and Falls of Lana. The loop begins at the Branbury State Park trailhead and follows the lower trail along Lake Dunmore before ascending to the Falls of Lana gorge at mile 1.5. The falls are a worthwhile stop and represent the most dramatic scenery of the lower loop section. See the Falls of Lana Trail guide for detailed falls area information.
Miles 1.5 to 3.5: Upper ridge approach. From the falls, the trail climbs the north bank of the gorge and continues into the upper Moosalamoo trail network. The terrain is a sustained moderate climb with rocky and root-crossed sections. The forest transitions from hardwoods to a mix of spruce and fir as elevation increases.
Miles 3.5 to 5.0: Ridge traverse. The loop reaches the highest elevation section on the western ridge of the Moosalamoo system. Open segments here provide views west across Lake Dunmore and the Champlain Valley. Silent Cliff (covered in the Silent Cliff Trail guide) is accessible via a short detour from this section.
Miles 5.0 to 7.0: Eastern forest traverse. The loop turns east and descends through a dense hardwood section. The tread is generally firm but can be muddy in spots after rain. Trail junctions here require attention to signage.
Miles 7.0 to 9.0: Loop close and return. The trail descends back toward the lake and trailhead through the lower Moosalamoo network, closing the loop at the Branbury State Park trailhead.
When to Visit
Summer (late June through August): Peak season with all trails accessible. Arrive at the Branbury trailhead early on summer weekends as parking fills. The shade of the forest makes this a comfortable hot-weather hike.
Fall (September through mid-October): The premier season on this route. The ridge traverse views combine open sky with foliage color. Columbus Day weekend sees the most traffic in the area; mid-week fall visits are significantly quieter.
Spring (late May through early June): Passable once the mud season ends. Higher stream levels make the Falls of Lana particularly dramatic. Check the conditions guide before spring trips.
Winter: The loop is snowshoe-accessible in good snow years, though not maintained for winter use. Some sections may be icy.
What to Bring
Many hikers on this route carry:
- 2-3 liters of water (individual needs vary; carry enough for a full day with moderate exertion)
- A full day's food including lunch and snacks for a 4-5 hour outing
- Trekking poles (helpful on the rocky descent sections)
- Rain gear (afternoon storms are common in summer)
- Downloaded offline map with trail junctions marked
- Sunscreen and a hat for the open ridge section
Practical Details
Branbury State Park trailhead has flush restrooms and ample parking. A state park day-use fee applies as of 2026; USFS passes are not honored at state park trailheads. Verify current rates with Vermont State Parks.
Trail signage is generally good throughout the Moosalamoo network. Carrying a map is still recommended, as junction signs can be confusing on the first visit.
The Moosalamoo Campground provides a base for multi-night visitors. See the national forest camping permit guide for general overnight trip planning.
Dogs are welcome on the loop. Leash dogs near the Falls of Lana gorge edge and the cliff sections on the ridge.
Cell service is limited throughout. Download maps before departure.
Getting There
From Middlebury, take Route 7 south to Route 53. Follow Route 53 south along the east shore of Lake Dunmore to Branbury State Park on the right. The drive from Middlebury takes approximately 20 minutes.
From Rutland, take Route 7 north to Route 53. Turn north on Route 53 and follow it to Branbury State Park on the left. The drive takes approximately 25 minutes.
USFS Middlebury Ranger District and current conditions: fs.usda.gov/greenmountain.