Winter Activities

Good for all skill levels

Starting at the Boyd Family Farm fields, located along rt 100. Hike north along the Deerfield river through the farm’s snow-covered vegetable fields. After crossing the Deerfield River and then the Ellis brook, the trail then leads up through a fir forest. Learn about all the trees and hopefully identify some wildlife tracks. After the wooded moderate uphill trek, the trail opens up into one of the farm’s most beautiful views. A wide-open view across the valley to both Mount snow and Haystack ski areas. A great spot for a snack and hot cocoa will be provided on the tour. You will learn about the Boyd family’s history in Wilmington starting in 1775, that’s right, the year before the revolutionary war!

Good for all skill levels

This tour is the same as above but starts later in the day. It includes a headlamp, fire, a plate of Vermont cheeses, and assorted crackers. You are welcome to bring a favorite beverage or a bottle of wine to complement the snacks and to watch the sun go down. On clear evenings the walk back to the vehicles across the open fields will give you a breathtaking view of the stars and moon.

Skill level moderate to experienced

Starting at a private parking lot at an undisclosed location, hike up old logging roads to a spot few visitors to see as this trail is not on any map. This is a challenging hike that will get your heart rate up. It’s all worth the effort when you get to the top and look south across the valley. The valley is known as the freezing hole by old-time Vermonters. Along the way, you will learn about the trees and animals that make up this part of Vermont’s National Forest. You will also learn about the history of Wilmington and the Boyd family who were literally among the first to settle along the Deerfield river in the valley below. Hot cocoa and snacks will be provided.

Skill level moderate

While trekking down the century-old railroad bed you’ll get some great views of the Vermont woods and Harriman Lake. Learn all about the logging industry that put Wilmington on the map, and the Boyd family’s role in settling the town. The mid-way point is a small canyon blasted through the rocks as the railroad was built. Cool icicles form from the water coming out of the rocks. although not a cave, the place is known by locals as the Crystal Cave. Great place for some hot cocoa and a snack. On the way back we will descend to the lake, passing the old foundation of the Boyd homestead dating back to before the Revolutionary War. We will pass Boyd Brook and head north up the lake. ½ mile up the lake another trail will bring us back to the railroad bed.