Trails & Natural Landmarks
Kingsley Grist Mill Covered Bridge
Built around 1870 by renowned Vermont bridge builder Nicholas M. Powers, this beautiful wooden covered bridge carries East Street across the Mill River. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it stands just upstream of the historic Kingsley Grist Mill — one of the most photographed spots in Rutland County.
Clarendon Gorge
Carved by the Mill River over millennia, this dramatic gorge features nearly a mile of cascading waterfalls through colorful metamorphic rock. The deep pools are popular for swimming in summer months, and the rare calcareous cliff ecosystem here is found in very few places in Vermont.
Clarendon Gorge Suspension Bridge
This iconic cable-suspension footbridge spans high above the Mill River where the Long Trail crosses the gorge. Dedicated to the memory of Bob Brugman, a young hiker lost in the 1973 floods, it offers one of the most breathtaking — and humbling — views on the entire trail system.
Lower Clarendon Gorge State Forest
Seventy-four acres of protected forest encompassing the dramatic gorge waterfalls and a rare plant community thriving on calcium-rich cliffs. The Vermont River Conservancy ensured this land would remain open to all of us. Hiking trails and swimming holes await — it's been a local favorite since before anyone can remember.
Clarendon Gorge Appalachian Trailhead
Your gateway to the combined Appalachian Trail and Long Trail corridor through the gorge. The parking area sits just above the gorge, with a short walk to the suspension bridge and waterfalls. Popular with day hikers and thru-hikers alike.
Clarendon Gorge to Greenwall Shelter
A challenging 15-mile backcountry route following the Long Trail northbound through the White Rocks area. Experienced hikers only — allow a full day. Greenwall Shelter accommodates about six hikers, with reliable water sources along the way.
Clarendon Gorge Upper Falls
A series of cascades within the narrow gorge, creating deep, clear pools perfect for a summer dip. The suspension bridge crosses directly overhead, making for quite a view from the water. Just a short walk from the trailhead parking area.
The Clarendon Shelter
This four-sided frame shelter on the Long Trail accommodates up to twelve hikers. Built in 1971, it replaced structures dating back to 1921. Known among thru-hikers for reliable water and the occasional "trail magic" left by generous locals. Greenwall Shelter is 6.1 miles north if you're pushing on.
Clarendon Springs
Mineral springs known since the 18th century — legend says a local named Asa Smith dreamed their location in 1776. The three-story Clarendon Springs Hotel, built around 1835, once drew visitors from across New England during the great mineral spa era. The building still stands, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Where to Stay
Harbor Cabin Airbnb
Three hundred bucolic acres, three spring-fed ponds, and a private cabin backing directly up to the Appalachian Trail. This is Clarendon at its most peaceful — wide open meadows by day, nothing but stars and the sound of the Mill River at night. Tom keeps the place beautifully, and he knows these trails better than almost anyone left around here.
Whether you're a thru-hiker looking for a real bed or a couple wanting to disappear into the mountains for a weekend, Harbor Cabin is the kind of place you tell people about — or keep to yourself.
Maude's Bed & Breakfast
A Clarendon institution. Maude's has been putting up guests and putting out a breakfast worth driving for since before most of us were born. Cozy rooms, a menu that changes with the seasons, and a guest book full of stories — some of them quite memorable.
Clarendon is the kind of town where people still wave from their porches and the mountains are always in view. Come visit us. Stay a while. Just remember — the trails are best enjoyed in good company, and there's no shame in turning back before dark.