Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont, offers a rugged invitation to anyone eager to explore waterfalls that steer clear of the crowds. Here, wild cascades tear through the Green Mountains with energy, while quiet streams trace their way through thick hardwood groves. This guide highlights accessible hikes that balance thrilling views with practical expectations—ideal for everyone from fresh-faced walkers to weathered adventurers.

Start with Sterling Falls Gorge Trail, a manageable 1.7-mile loop with about 350 feet of elevation gain. The path winds alongside Sterling Brook, whose clear water dares you to keep pace. The trail’s compact roots and occasional rocky steps reward with vivid glimpses of frothing falls cascading into deep pools. Layer your shoes with traction in mind; the slick granite flanks soak up moisture fast. Aim for a mid-morning start to catch sunlight filtering through the firs, animating the mist.

Next, the Moss Glen Falls Trail offers a slightly longer outing—3.2 miles round trip with a steady 500-foot ascent. The wooded trail oscillates between moss-coated boulders and soft pine needles underfoot. The main attraction, a broad waterfall spilling over a rocky ledge, speaks with a thunderous voice, reminding hikers of nature’s relentless pulse. The terrain varies from gentle inclines to short stair-like sections, rewarding steady footing and cautious steps. Bring a bottle to sip often; the climb teases the lungs more than the flat valley floor.

Not far away, the Smugglers’ Notch Trail connects to several smaller cascades scattered along the route. Covering about 4 miles total with 600 feet of elevation change, it combines a mix of dirt and gravel paths that wind between spruce and birch while streams rush beside you, eager and restless. The charm here is the sequence of water features—each offering a distinct posture, from soft trickles to aggressive drops—calling for frequent stops to take in the shifting moods of the forest.

Practical considerations sharpen the experience: hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes are non-negotiable, especially on wet rock. Water is essential; Vermont’s mountain streams run cold but avoid drinking directly without filtration. Weather shifts quickly in the notch—carry layered clothing and plan hikes for dry, clear windows, ideally late spring through early fall. The area is busiest during foliage season, when reds and golds ignite the woods, but early summer brings wildflowers and fewer footfalls.

These waterfalls challenge curiosity and respect in equal measure. They refuse to be merely scenic backdrops—they push you to navigate uneven ground, steady your balance, and revel in the raw voice of moving water. Preparing thoughtfully lets you step confidently into their vigor, turning every hike into an engagement with Vermont’s fiercely authentic outdoor spirit.