Highland Forest
Highland Forest offers year-round outdoor adventures, from scenic hiking and dog-friendly trails to winter skiing and sledding fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for skiing & snowshoeing
Highland Forest
Best Time
Ideal for skiing & snowshoeing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Highland Forest offers year-round outdoor adventures, from scenic hiking and dog-friendly trails to winter skiing and sledding fun.
"Love this place so much! Trails are well-marked and dog-friendly."
🗺️ Carry a Trail Map
Trails are well-marked, but a map is essential for safety and navigation. :world_map:
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
Be mindful of poison ivy on some paths; stay on the marked trails. :herb:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sledding Hill
Front of the hill
A fun, fast sledding hill with long runs and great valley views. Perfect for family outings.
Mossy Forest Trails
Various marked paths
Experience an enchanted landscape with mist, moss, and bridges. Feels like stepping into another world.
Wildlife Spotting
Along the trails
Keep your voice down to spot deer or hear ravens. Look for interesting rocks and small critters in the stream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Highland Forest Trails
Seasonal Activities & Passes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Carry a Trail Map
Trails are well-marked, but a map is essential for safety and navigation. :world_map:
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
Be mindful of poison ivy on some paths; stay on the marked trails. :herb:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Most hiking trails (M, L, K, T) welcome dogs, but check specific regulations. :dog:
❄️ Winter Pass Needed
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing require a paid pass during winter months. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Carry a Trail Map
Trails are well-marked, but a map is essential for safety and navigation. :world_map:
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
Be mindful of poison ivy on some paths; stay on the marked trails. :herb:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Most hiking trails (M, L, K, T) welcome dogs, but check specific regulations. :dog:
❄️ Winter Pass Needed
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing require a paid pass during winter months. :ticket:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The misty, moss-covered forests offer stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Highland Forest for its well-maintained trails, diverse seasonal activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. The free sledding hill and dog-friendly hiking paths are particular highlights. Some caution is advised regarding poison ivy on certain routes, and winter activities require a pass.
"The management of this place is incredible! Huge parking lot in front of skyline lodge. 3 separate trail tracks for cross country skiing, skate skiing, and hiking/snowshoeing. Sign in at trailhead so that if you are in trouble, they will know. The hiking trails (M,L,K,T) are dog friendly and so well marked. So they can locate you if you are in trouble. Hiking is free and skiing pass is like 30 dollars per season. Love this place so much. They also offer horse drawn sleigh rides and the front of the hill has a hike up, free, sledding area."
Yi-Shin Sheu
"This is a nice walk. It’s not a hike but if you’re in the mood to get outside this has a path through the woods. There is poison Ivy on one of the paths but it’s wide enough to avoid it. Just be aware it’s there and consider this if you’re planning a visit. It’s a tapered area not a hike but a walk without any challenges. I wouldn’t suggest a rainy day because it’s muddy . This is however perfect for going cross country skiing in the winter. There are paid packages for that which are inside the building. So, it’s free to walk but in the winter a pass or package would be necessary for cross country skiing or snow shoeing. Prices seemed very reasonable !"
Elise Keledjian
"Went with my family for sledding. Huge hill. Not too steep but very fun and fast with long runs. Great views of the valley below."
kristofer feeko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Highland Forest is accessible by car, with a large parking lot available near the Skyline Lodge. Specific directions will depend on your starting point.
Information on public transportation options is limited, but driving is the most common method of access.
There is a huge parking lot in front of the Skyline Lodge, making it convenient for visitors.
Yes, there are separate trail tracks for cross-country skiing, skate skiing, and hiking/snowshoeing.
Absolutely! Highland Forest is perfect for a day trip, offering various activities like hiking, sledding, and scenic walks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hiking is free at Highland Forest. However, a seasonal pass is required for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter.
Ski passes are typically around $30 per season, offering great value for winter sports enthusiasts.
Information on discounts is not readily available, but the seasonal pass is considered reasonably priced.
Yes, paid packages for winter activities are available inside the main building.
While hiking is generally accessible, specific hours for facilities like the lodge or paid activities may vary by season. It's best to check locally.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Highland Forest offers a variety of trails, including those for hiking, cross-country skiing, skate skiing, and snowshoeing.
The trails are generally well-marked, but it's always recommended to carry a map for safety.
Yes, families will enjoy the free sledding hill and the dog-friendly hiking trails.
You might spot deer or hear ravens if you're quiet. The stream also hosts small critters.
Be cautious of poison ivy on some trails, especially during warmer months. The stream can also be slippery.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mossy Forest areas, with their mist and lush greenery, offer incredibly atmospheric and fairytale-like photo opportunities.
Early mornings or late afternoons can provide beautiful lighting, especially with the mist often present in the Mossy Forest.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest landscapes, while a macro lens can be useful for detailed shots of moss and plants.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Use a telephoto lens for close-ups.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For those who enjoy walking, the dog-friendly hiking trails are well-marked and offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Remember to watch out for poison ivy and keep an eye on children to ensure they stay on the paths. The stream area can also be an interesting spot for kids to explore, with cool rocks and small critters to observe.
🐾 Dog Owners
It's important to ensure your dogs are well-behaved and kept on a leash, especially given the presence of wildlife and other visitors. Always be mindful of poison ivy and other potential hazards on the trails, and ensure your dog doesn't disturb the natural environment or other guests.
❄️ Winter Sports Enthusiasts
A seasonal pass is required for these activities, which is generally considered a good value. The availability of separate tracks ensures a quality experience for each discipline. Don't forget to check in at the trailhead before heading out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mossy Forest
This unique ecosystem thrives in humid conditions, often found at higher altitudes. The visual appeal is undeniable, with vibrant greens and a soft, diffused light that filters through the canopy. It's a place that encourages quiet contemplation and a deep appreciation for nature's artistry.
When visiting the Mossy Forest, wear appropriate footwear as the ground can be damp and slippery. Take your time to absorb the details – the intricate patterns of the moss, the ancient trees, and the gentle sounds of the forest. It's an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
Winter Activities at Highland Forest
To access the groomed ski and snowshoe trails, a seasonal pass is required. While the cost is around $30 per season, many visitors find it to be a reasonable price for the extensive recreational opportunities provided. The management is praised for its dedication to maintaining these winter trails, making it a prime destination for snow sports.
Beyond skiing and snowshoeing, Highland Forest also offers popular horse-drawn sleigh rides, adding a touch of rustic charm to the winter landscape. For families, the free sledding area provides hours of fun with its long, fast runs and scenic valley views.
Trail Etiquette and Safety
While the trails are generally well-marked, it's always wise to carry a map and be aware of your surroundings. Visitors should be particularly mindful of poison ivy, which can be present on some paths, especially during warmer months. Staying on the marked trails significantly reduces the risk of encountering it.
For winter activities, ensure you have the appropriate gear and understand the trail conditions. The sign-in system is also in place for skiers and snowshoers. Respecting the natural environment by not disturbing wildlife and staying on trails contributes to the preservation of Highland Forest for everyone to enjoy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit