Hike of the Week: Appalachian Trail to Bromley's Summit

View of Stratton from Bromley's summit in summer

Anyone who has stood at Stratton's summit has probably spent a good amount of time admiring the northern view across our neighboring mountains, especially Bromley Mountain. This hike takes you across the valley to see the other side of our well-known view with a look back at Stratton Mountain. The trail is easy to get to and easy to follow, as you'll hike on the well-marked Appalachian and Long Trails before joining Bromley's ski trails to reach the summit. From there, you can return by the same trail or head to Bromley's base area via the ski trails (though you will need transportation back to the original parking area if you choose to do so).

The trail runs alongside the beautiful Bromley Brook and through an interested rockey, wooded landscape. Stop and take a rest at the tenting shelter along the trail and keep your eyes out for a look-out on the right hand side of the trail after it really starts getting steep.


Route: Park at the AT/LT at the trailhead on Routes 11/30 and follow the white blazes that mark the trail. Click here for a map.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Distance: 5.4 miles round trip (trailhead to summit and back)
This trail follows a rocky course through a mixed northern hardwood forest, where you may need to hike over muddy or rocky ground and through steep areas. From the parking area on Route 30, follow the trail opposite the entrance along the road for about 50 feet then take a sharp left turn to go over a narrow bridge. From this point, the trail follows the Bromley Brook, later crossing the Corridor 7 snowmobile route. After 1.6 miles, the trail makes a couple of sharp turns and becomes steeper before it opens onto Bromley Mountain's "Run Around" ski trail, which you'll follow to the summit. There you'll see an AT/LT sign, Summit Ski Patrol Station, and an observation deck and views of Stratton Mountain and Mount Equinox. Adapted from the US Forest Service.

Seen in a different season

This Hike of the Week is part of a continuing blog series to celebrate hiking in and around Stratton Mountain. For more information about hiking at Stratton, visit Stratton.com. Please hike safely - always research your route, tell someone your plan, dress appropriately and be prepared with plenty of water and snacks.