Distance: 4.7 miles Elevation gain: 1001 ft
On our way home from Vermont, Ray and I decided to venture a waterfall hike that aligned with our trip back to PA. It was an hour away from my house, still in VT, but fell along the path that we take home. It was meant to be!
We got there exactly an hour after we set off and roll down a neighborhood street, then onto a roughly paved road. It was marked with a sign that read: “Lye Brook Falls Trail”. We parked in a wooded lot with a few other cars and started our adventure.
Exact location: Lye Brook Falls Trail, Manchester Center, VT 05255
The hike was extremely flat a first, but charming. It was as if we were walking down a small road composed of colorful fall leaves, enclosed in thick maple and birch trees. We gradually made our way down the trail and it took it all in. The leaves fell carefully through the air around us. We existed in slow motion.
As the hike continued, the incline gradually increased. We found ourselves breathing heavily, struggling at the altitude. Although it was a brisk 48 degrees, I started to shed my outer layers to compensate for a rising heart rate and sweat starting to break.
The last mile of the hike was composed entirely of steep hills. Although not difficult, the longevity induces a decent workout. During the inclines, Ray and I were unable to enjoy our surroundings as thoroughly because we focused on navigating the rocks and roots.
Eventually, the trail broke over a field of rocks and the beauteous Lye Brook Falls. Ray and I both began to maneuver across the stones and boulders. Jumping from rock to rock was challenging, not only because of the ice cold stream looming below, but because the rocks were covered with slippery leaves and moss.
We struggled, but we made it to a large boulder beneath the waterfall with a prime view. The waterfall was magnificent! Water streamed and trickled from a steep cliff of boulders. The jagged edges and greenery made it very unique.
Ray and I spent an hour or so admiring and exploring before we headed back. The hike back to the car was much easier considering it was our turn to stroll down hill.
Lye Brook Falls was an excellent hike, but I would recommend visiting during the summer or late spring when the waterfall is really flowing!
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