The Canty Trail — Attraction in Mendon

This is a really good out and back trail. The view at the top had a limited angle, but it's worth the home up.

About the hike out...

The first half is no problem. There's are some moderate ups and downs through a mixed wood forest. You'll cross some small streams and wet areas that, fortunately, have boardwalks across them. Eventually, you'll come to an old road which the trail turns to follow. At that point, you'll be going uphill the rest of the way.

After you pass a short spur that leads to a beautiful waterfall, the trail gets a lot steeper as it heads right up the canyon with the stream to your right. When things start to level out, you'll know you're almost at the top.

The peak is a mound of bluish rock with a blue dot painted on it. You can see Mt. Pico from that point. There's also a short little hike out to a vista that gives you a good view of Rutland and Rt. 4 coming in from the west.

Overall, the hike isn't technically challenging. It is, however, physically demanding and there are lots of rocks and roots that you'll need to be careful of, especially on the decent. My wife and I took about 3 hours to complete the hike including stops to enjoy...

This is a nicely maintained trail (by the Green Mountain Club). It goes to the summit of Blue Ridge Mountain from which there is a limited vista of Rutland. About 2/3 of the way up, the trail passes a lovely waterfall (Sawyer Brook Falls).

Note that the trail includes a crossing of Sawyer Brook that might be difficult during times...

This is a beautiful hike- challenging, beautiful scenery & plenty of shade. We hiked as far as the Cascades (waterfalls) - the second half involved a fair amount of vertical climb. If you use poles, bring them! Great workout! Trailhead is just off the road, parking is somewhat limited- on the side...