Lye Brook Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the Green Mountain National Forest of Vermont. It is one of the highest waterfalls in the state, with a total drop of 125 feet over two tiers. The first tier drops 85 feet, while the second falls 40 feet into an impressive pool below.
Details about Lye Brook Falls
The falls drop 125 feet over two cascades into a deep pool below. The beauty of the area surrounding Lye Brook Falls draws thousands of visitors year-round to experience its tranquility. In autumn, vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows blanket the foliage as it transitions into fall colors. Winter brings snow that blankets everything in sight with a white coat of powdery snow and freezes the waterfall for another photogenic experience. Spring brings back new life to the landscape, while summertime provides sunny days perfect for jumping into the swimming hole to cool off.
The hike to Lye Brook Falls begins at an elevation of 1,800 feet and follows a moderate trail for about 3 miles through hardwood forests and over several wooden bridges crossing brooks along the way. The trail then descends steeply to reach views of both tiers of the falls from above before continuing down to a viewing platform which offers close up views from below as well.
This area has been designated as part of Vermont’s “Wild & Scenic Rivers” system due to its scenic beauty and ecological importance. A variety of wildlife can be found here including black bears, deer, moose, foxes and many species of birds such as woodpeckers and warblers. There are also several rare plants that grow around Lye Brook Falls making it an important habitat for local flora and fauna.
Hiking at Lye Brook Falls
Hiking at Lye Brook Falls in Vermont is an incredible experience. The hike itself is relatively moderate with a few steep climbs and descents but nothing too difficult for most hikers. The trail starts off with a gentle climb through the woods before reaching the base of Lye Brook Falls. Take some time to take it all in before continuing on your journey along the 1-mile loop that will eventually lead you back to where you started.
Along this path, you’ll be able to explore several more smaller waterfalls as well as enjoy breathtaking overlooks of the surrounding valley and mountains beyond. At certain times during your hike, you may even get lucky enough to spot some local wildlife such as deer or black bears!
Directions to Lye Brook Falls
Address: Manchester, VT 05255
To reach Lye Brook Falls from Manchester: (Map)
Take Route 7A south toward Dorset. Turn left onto VT-11/VT-30 and continue on 11/30 until you reach East Rupert Road (VT-153). Take a right onto East Rupert Road and follow it for approximately 4 miles until you reach Congdon Hill Road. Turn right onto Congdon Hill Road and travel 1 mile until you see a parking area on your left with an information kiosk.
This is the starting point for your hike to Lye Brook Falls. The hike to Lye Brook Falls will be about 3 miles roundtrip. As you make your way through these trails, keep an eye out for signs that mark various points of interest such as old logging roads or historical sites like abandoned homesteads. Eventually you will come upon a bridge crossing over Lye Brook where the waterfall can be seen cascading down into its pool below.
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