Pico Peak via Sherburne Pass Trail

The most common access point for this route is the Sherburne Pass parking lot. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash to ensure their safety and respect for other hikers and potential wildlife encounters.

The trail is generally best hiked between April and October. Autumn offers particularly stunning views with the changing foliage. Year-round access is possible, but winter hiking is recommended on weekdays when the Pico Mountain Ski Resort is closed.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day hiking on this trail within the Green Mountain National Forest. However, always check the latest regulations before your visit.

The hike begins with a gradual uphill climb through grassy open fields. After about 1.5 miles, the climb becomes steeper with switchbacks, transitioning into dense coniferous forests. The final 0.4-mile spur to the summit, the Pico Link trail, is steep and rocky, often described as the most challenging section. Expect potentially slippery roots and muddy sections, especially after rain.

The trail offers diverse scenery, from wildflowers and mountain streams in the lower sections to dense pine forests higher up. The highlight is reaching the summit of Pico Peak, which provides stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the Adirondacks and other Green Mountain peaks. You'll also pass Pico Camp, a small shelter, about 2.7 miles in.

Yes, this route follows sections of several well-known paths. It notably uses segments of the Appalachian Trail and the Long Trail, which historically ran along this section before being re-routed. You'll also follow the Sherburne Pass Trail and the Pico Link trail to reach the summit.

While some sources rate it as moderate, the trail can be challenging, especially the steep and rocky final ascent to Pico Peak. Beginners with good fitness might manage, but sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles are highly recommended. It's not typically considered a beginner-friendly route due to its sustained elevation gain and steep sections.

There is a possibility of encountering wildlife such as moose, black bear, and whitetail deer along the route. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware of your surroundings.

Yes, approximately 2.7 miles from the trailhead, you'll find Pico Camp. This small, four-sided shelter offers a good resting point and even bunk beds for overnight hikers, though it's primarily a day hike for most.

The Sherburne Pass Trail is historically significant as it was the former route of both the Long Trail and a segment of the Appalachian Trail before they were re-routed in 1999. The old AT/Long Trail along this section is now blue-blazed.