From the trailhead, the path climbs through a red pine plantation and then increases its slope as it climbs through a mixed hardwood forest. The trail winds along several small ridges and outcrops before turning northward and intersecting with the historic Lookout Trail at Lookout Junction. The main trail continues north, passing through a younger forest and soon reaches the Ridge Junction.
Here the Basin Link trail turns downhill and briefly passes over outcrops and ledge before joining the Lookout Trail (at the Basin Junction). This lower elevation cut-off provides a foul-weather alternative to climbing the summit.
Continuing beyond the Ridge Junction, the main trail begins to climb more steeply up stone steps and switchbacks where it eventually reaches the mountain heights. Winding along a ridge, the trail offers limited views of the Nulhegan Basin and surrounding areas and soon reaches a junction with the Lookout Trail directly ahead and a short spur to the summit on the right.
The lower Lookout Trail winds in much the same way among boulders, small outcrops, and seasonal streams. From the Basin Junction, however, the upper Lookout Trail soon becomes steep and rocky and requires the use of metal handholds, so it is not advisable for all hikers. Once at the Lookout, there are stunning views of the area from a clifftop vantage point. The trail continues gradually upward to the summit and can be connected to the main trail to form a lollipop loop.
For more information about the trails, visit the Northwoods Stewardship Center or Green Mountain Club online or contact:
Town of BrightonFrom central Island Pond, drive north on VT-105/East Brighton Road for 0.3 miles. Turn left onto Curran Avenue and continue for 0.2 miles. Turn right onto Mountain Street and continue for about 0.5 miles after the road turns to dirt. There is a parking lot on the side of the road for a small number of cars. The trailhead is located off the parking lot.
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