The Nichols Ledge Trail is closed from mid-March until August 1st to protect nesting Peregrine Falcons. Please do not hike this trail or visit this area when it is closed.
While it’s a relatively short hike, it is steep. If you’re in decent shape, the hike will take about 15 minutes.
The ledge is located in the Town of Woodbury, near the junction of Cabot, Walden, Hardwick, and Woodbury. To reach the ledges, you’ll need to climb a steep and unforgiving trail that’s not suitable for timid, frail, or sedentary individuals. The beginning of the trail is often wet, so make sure to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes or hiking boots, and it’s helpful to carry a walking stick. Once at the top, exercise caution, as the drop is sheer, and there are no railings or safeguards. DO NOT BRING CHILDREN UNLESS YOU CAN KEEP A FIRM HAND ON THEM AT ALL TIMES, ESPECIALLY NEAR THE LEDGES.
The view from the top is well worth the effort. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views to the south and west, with miles of unbroken forest stretching out before you.
To reach Nichols Ledge, from Cabot, VT take South Walden Road at the north end of Main Street (Rt. 215) past the recreation field, and turn left onto Houston Hill Road. Follow this road to Coit’s Pond Road, and turn right. After a little over a mile, you’ll pass small Coit’s Pond on your left, and continue to a wide spot in the road on the left, directly opposite a “backwards driveway.” Park in the wide spot, and you’ll see the trail heading into the woods.
photo courtesy Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department
A peregrine falcon in its nest.
Nesting Peregrine Falcon
In 1975, The Peregrine Fund, Inc. led the effort to reintroduce the Peregrine Falcon into Vermont. From 1982 to 1987, young peregrines, born in captivity, were placed in artificial nest boxes and released from a ledge as part of a process known as "hacking."
photo courtesy Vermont Audubon Society