Laura Cowles Trail - Sunset Ridge Loop - Mt. Mansfield - Underhill, VT

Laura Cowles - Sunset Ridge Trail Loop 4.5 Miles, 2555 elevation gain

Mt. Mansfield had been calling to me for a while. My original plan called for a longer loop hike but the forecast called for afternoon thunderstorms. I decided to hike a shorter route on a trail I had never hiked. The Laura Cowles Trail is a trail with limited views and a steep ascent. The trail that parallels it, the Sunset Ridge Trail offers plenty of views and an easier ascent so it has been the trail of choice on other occasions. The sign at the trailhead offers little information; I wondered if it was on purpose?

 

The hike starts from Underhill State Park. From there it's a short hike to the junction of several trails. The Laura Cowles Trail follows a stream and stays in the woods for much of the hike. On this humid day I welcomed the coolness of the stream and shade. It didn't take long to learn that I had a stair-stepping climb ahead of me.

 

The trail is a short 1.5 miles from the time it leaves the Sunset Ridge Trail until it meets the Sunset Ridge Trail again. There are no switchbacks or flat places along the way, it's a constant uphill climb.

 

Eventually, there is a view through the trees and then views to the south and west. This is a view looking south along the Green Mountain ridgeline.

 

Soon the trail junction is in sight and a then a short distance to the Long Trail and the Chin of Mt. Mansfield.

 

Reaching the Long Trail is always welcome because it means you are getting close to your destination. Here is a view looking back along the trail, again looking south.



 

Finally the summit is in view! Happy hikers enjoying the day.

 



I spent some time eating snacks and conversing with the Green Mountain Club Caretaker and then headed back to the Sunset Ridge Trailhead.

 

Then off down the Sunset Ridge.

 

The Sunset Ridge Trail is above treeline for a long way so it is a very popular trail. 

 

One last look back up the trail to the summit before I head into the woods.



Another great day on the trail and successful hike!