Local Wanders

The Trail Around Middlebury (TAM) is a 16-mile foot and bike path that circles the town of Middlebury, linking several parks and protected areas. The trail is maintained by the Middlebury Area Land Trust (MALT), which has operated since 1987 with the “purpose of preserving key open and scenic lands in Middlebury.” With a few weeks of fall left before the trails become covered in snow, it’s a perfect time to sneak in some last minute hikes. Each trail section passes through unique landscapes with different topography and wildlife, making each outing an exciting adventure. MALT also organizes guided nature walks and other events. Check the organization’s website, http://maltvt.org for a full schedule.

Chipman Hill is a prominent landmark in the area, rising 360 feet above downtown Middlebury. It served as the College’s downhill ski area during the 1940s and 1950s, but its forest has since regenerated. The trail is accessible from two spots: at a trailhead located on Seminary Street Extension or from a gate on Springside St. The ascent to the top of the hill is not too strenuous and the trail is wide and well-maintained, making it an option for bikers as well. Several trails diverge from the main TAM route, including one that leads to a wooden bench overlooking the town. The TAM’s descent down the hill follows a narrow earthen trail with several twists and turns. However, flatter alternate trails enable cyclists and joggers to continue their routines. The hill is a haven for wildlife and towers over the town of Middlebury, offering sweeping views at every turn.

The Wright Park trailhead is located at the end of Seymour Street and has ample parking. The landscape consists of flat grassy fields and wetlands that border Otter Creek. Short shrubs and high grasses with rows of mushrooms dominate the beginning of the trail. As tall trees start to flank the path, a small sign points to a “Wetlands Boardwalk” located down a diverging trail. The boardwalk is in the style of a crooked boardwalk found in Japanese gardens, with about six planks of wood creating a narrow bridge across a stream. A plaque explains that the crooked layout is strategic because according to Japenese folklore, “evil spirits fear the many sharp corners.” The TAM passes through the central portion of Wright Park, and is one of three north-south trails that traverse the park. It eventually crosses Otter Creek over Arnold Bridge and connects to the Otter Creek Gorge Preserve.

The TAM runs right through Middlebury College as well! The trail begins on South Street, west of the baseball field, and skirts the southern perimeter of the Ralph Myhre Golf Course. This portion serves primarily as the cross-country trail and passes through a hilly terrain consisting of dirt and grass paths. As the TAM crosses Route 30, it becomes the “Colin O’Neil Class of ’97 Trail,” created in conjunction with MALT and Environmental Studies students from the College. Passing by the Organic Garden, with BiHall looming in the distance, you soon realize that work can wait a while as you soak in Middlebury’s natural beauty.