The trails and grounds at the Birds of Vermont Museum are open from dawn until dusk, year round. Our property spans both sides of Sherman Hollow Road.
Explore, exercise, and rest in forest and meadow, beside small gardens or a flowing stream. Take a look at the notices posted in our kiosks, and make a donation if you are able to.
There are no toilet facilities nor trash bins on our trails; please take care of those things before you come. Lastly, no pets on our trails—of couse, trained, leashed service dogs are permitted. We recommend using the road to walk all other dogs.
Our trails are maintained by staff and volunteers; please make a donation to their upkeep if you can.
Trails
On the side south of the Museum, across the road, trails begin near the guard rail. Wander up the Spear Trail gradually through a small maintained meadow, to our Bird Blind and pond, and further up into the forest. Can you find game trails? An old stone wall? Please be careful not to step on fragile plants in the wet slope above the pond—do enjoy their delicate beauty! This forest is rich with deciduous second-growth trees that colonized what used to be farmland.
On the north side, head down the gravel path that slopes to the stream. Be careful as Bob’s Bridge has no railings. Cross the stream and choose your path: Bob’s Trail starts along the creek, passes Gale’s Retreat, then winds up and to the back of property, where there is a drier upland forest habitat. Gale’s Trail takes you directly uphill through white pines and ferns. Overall, this side is a bigger section of property with steep slopes and a great variety of habitats. Watch for tracks!
Need a map? Download the PDF, pick up a copy at the front desk, or see the posted maps on the kiosks on the Spear Trail or at the junction of Bob’s and Gale’s trails.
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Treehouse
The Treehouse Trail is a short path from the road to the treehouse behind the museum. It is 120 feet in length and is surfaced with loose gravel. Its average width is 54 inches, and the minimum width along the path is 40 inches. The average slope of the path is 2°, and the maximum slope is 5°. Similarly, the average cross slope is 1°, and the maximum cross slope is 5°. The path is partially shaded with trees. The only obstacle along the trail is at the entrance to the treehouse, where there is one diagonal beam around eye level at adult standing height. Lean or step to the left on entering, as necessary.
There is one bench along the trail, which is surrounded by a grassy surface. There is a grassy area with two benches and two picnic tables adjacent to this trail.
The treehouse itself is a medium-sized wooden structure that usually contains a table with four chairs, a bench, and two additional chairs. The roof of the treehouse provides shade and weather protection. There are railings on all four sides that do not obstruct a seated visitor’s view.
This trail is recommended for those using mobility devices. You can find this trail on the Birdability map, and comments are welcome. (Description updated August 17, 2024)
Outdoor Safety
There is little to no cell service on this property. We always recommend you dress for the weather, wear good shoes, put on tick protection, and drink enough water. Be careful, have fun, and conserve the land for the next visitors.