Great trail for a family hike, took my 4 and 6 year old kids along and both enjoyed it, a little tiring if you're not in shape. Fantastic views from the summit after you climb the fire tower. A little windy up there but nothing you can't handle.
The Healdville trail is about 3 miles long and is very steep making for a challenging though very pleasant hike in the Great North Woods. Getting there is straightforward: Take 103 north from Ludlow, VT to Station Road (The bridge on Healdville Road is washed out - no doubt a victim of Irene). From the parking lot you have a slow climb that gathers itself to the base of the Mountain, After crossing a wooden bridge, you start climbing a steep 1.2 mile pitch which flattens out as it rounds the side of the mountain. The last 3/4 mile is very steep as you climb to the top and the backside of the ski lifts. A spur trail takes you to the fire tower. The views from the fire tower were brilliant! On the hike met an elderly gentleman from Gorham, NH on the trail with his dog Teddy, taking a break. My wife and I were impressed - and realized that if he can do so could we! We said our goodbye's to he and Teddy at the fire tower.
My 12 year old daughter and I heard this was a perfect half day hike. We loved it. We are both in pretty good shape and found this hike excellent. Minus the bugs...but it was a muggy July. Trying to work my daughter up to climbing a 4000 footer in August. I think she's ready after this climb.
We stayed in Ludlow and wanted to hike something close by. I was hesitant to go on Okemo as I wanted an outdoor adventure and feared developments... but the trail was certainly in the woods and not too long or challenging. Then, at the very top, there is a beautiful view available if you're willing to climb up the Fire tower! It is 6 miles r/t and excluding breaks, hiking time was under three hours.
If you want to make the 3mi hike (about 90 minutes) head to Station Rd and enjoy, but be prepared! It is steep, lots of rocks and roots.If you just want to go see the firetower, we learned the hard way there is a parking lot about .5mi away if you take Mountain Rd.Beautiful views once you reach the top of the tower
The trail winds around the forest of Okemo Mountain for a long time before emerging near the summit, which has a look out tower where there is a lot of glass - so be careful if walking dogs. Overall a little disappointing.
Up to the fire tower three miles is hard enough but coming back down is also a challenge. Make sure you are in shape. I wouldn't recommend children younger than ten or twelve. Beautiful, well marked but making it to the top is not easy.
Great for all levels, go at your own pace. Bring your camera, such wondrous beauty! Take in all that mother nature has to offer
I am a member of the Green Mountain Club and hike peaks all over Vermont, New York and New Hampshire. I considered the Healdville Trail a moderate hike to a great location. The tower at the top of Okemo has 360 degree views.
nice hike, sometimes steep, lots of beautiful waterfalls. Goes through the woods, across streams. There was a beautiful overlook close to the top, with views across Vermont mountains. Snow prevented me from reaching the top. Be sure to take the foot trail to the left of the trail head sign. The bigger trail is a snowmobile route.