Trail Description

Welcome to the newest ski area in Vermont! And without mechanical lifts! This great addition to our skiable terrain is the only National Forest glade project in the nation. In the fall of 2015, a local group of dedicated outdoors people received permission for and developed a 1,300 foot vertical gladed area. It consists of 4 glades and a skin track for going up. Located on Rt. 73 East, the Bear Brook pulloff is a short drive from downtown Brandon. The skin track leaves directly from the parking area; it is aggressive (pretty steep) but can be climbed in about an hour. The ski down is much shorter. From the top you can choose any of the 4 glades (see map), which mix back and forth over the hill. They all end on the same woods road, which leads back to the skin track and parking area. This is an area for the accomplished skier. The terrain is moderately steep. Skiers/snowboarders should travel in groups and be prepared to take care of themselves. There is no cell service or ski patrol! A sense of adventure is necessary.

Directions to the Bear Brook pull off

Leave Brandon heading east on Rt. 73, climbing to the top of Brandon Gap. Continue past the top/the Long Trail parking area for about 1/2 mile. There is a wide pulloff on the right; it is unmarked. If you reach the Chittenden Brook area, you have gone 1 mile too far. This is the first of three glade areas to be developed. In the summer and fall of 2016 there will be workdays to open up the other two areas. There is one that has more moderate terrain that will be accessible to those using waxless skis. Please check with the Ridgeline Outdoor Collective for dates of work parties.