Looking for a short hike with a lot of bang for your buck? Something you can do with the kids, or with people in your party who aren’t used to long hikes? We can suggest two that are close by that will reward you with outstanding views for not too much effort. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars or a camera!
Hike to the Top of Okemo
There’s a short hike to the top of the Okemo Mountain Road that gives you an awesome vantage point with less than a mile of hiking. You can hike through dense, magical woods up a steep, rocky trail, or you can hike up a relatively easy road. At the top you have a mountain-top view from the Okemo Peak that lets you gaze down upon the Village of Ludlow, Lake Rescue, and mountains all the way to New Hampshire. You’ll see the ski lift and can climb to the top of the Fire Tower (if you’re not afraid of heights). It’s less than a mile round trip. There are some pull-offs with scenic views on the way down. Learn more.
Directions to the Trailhead:
Turn left on Route 100, then left at the end. Make a right onto Okemo Mtn Rd. Drive up to the Okemo Lodge, continuing up the private road to its left (OPEN from late spring to late fall). This road will switchback straight up the mountain for about 4-5 miles until you reach the top. You’ll be able to park at the end and either walk on the road or go up the trail to the left.
Echo Lake Vista Trail
Children as young as five can successfully navigate the hike up the Echo Lake Vista Trail. It’s steep but not brutal, and the views of Echo Lake, okemo Mountain, and the whole area from the top are breathtaking. there’s a nice rock there where you can relax and enjoy a snack. It’s only 1.5 miles round-trip.Learn more.
Directions:
The trail is located at Camp Plymouth State Park Distance. Go north on Route 100 (turn right form Benson Point), North, then turn right onto Kingdom Road at the Echo Lake Inn, follow 1 mile to Boy Scout Camp Road, and turn left to Camp Plymouth State Park. Park for free in a parking lot on the right before the road crosses the creek. The trailhead is past the cabins on the right, or you can go farther on the road and access the trail by way of a steep wooden staircase that goes through an ancient cemetery.
It may seem bizarre to intentionally get up at 6 AM when you’re on summer vacation. That’s supposed to be your time to sleep late, right? But you could be missing out on the best stuff Lake Rescue has to offer! Setting your alarm that early can reap some incredible rewards, if you want to start your day with meditative peace and serenity. The lake itself presents a striking tableau, with a contract of dark mountains, clear water and, and clouds and mist.
For birdwatchers, daybreak is a bewitching time when birds are active but most humans are not. Some of the birds I have quietly watched this summer include great blue herons, snowy egrets, a variety of ducks, a loon couple, and a bald eagle family.
