Lye Brook Falls
A challenging yet rewarding hike through Green Mountain National Forest to a stunning 125-foot waterfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Max waterfall flow!
Lye Brook Falls
Best Time
Max waterfall flow!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging yet rewarding hike through Green Mountain National Forest to a stunning 125-foot waterfall.
"Great hike with a beautiful waterfall! Highly recommend going after a good rain."
Wear waterproof boots
Mud and stream crossings are common. Waterproof hiking boots or sneakers are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check recent rainfall
For the best waterfall views, visit after a good rain. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lye Brook Falls
End of the Lye Brook Falls Trail
A stunning 125-foot cascade, especially impressive after recent rainfall. The journey is as rewarding as the destination.
Green Mountain National Forest
Surrounding the trail
Experience the rugged wilderness and priceless scenery of this expansive national forest. A true escape into nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key!
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear waterproof boots
Mud and stream crossings are common. Waterproof hiking boots or sneakers are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check recent rainfall
For the best waterfall views, visit after a good rain. :droplet:
Not ideal for young kids
The rocky, uphill terrain can be challenging for little ones and dogs. :dog:
Pack water and snacks
It's a 4-5 mile hike with significant elevation gain. Stay hydrated! :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear waterproof boots
Mud and stream crossings are common. Waterproof hiking boots or sneakers are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check recent rainfall
For the best waterfall views, visit after a good rain. :droplet:
Not ideal for young kids
The rocky, uphill terrain can be challenging for little ones and dogs. :dog:
Pack water and snacks
It's a 4-5 mile hike with significant elevation gain. Stay hydrated! :water_wave:
Embrace the journey
The hike itself offers beautiful scenery, not just the waterfall. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lye Brook Falls for its beautiful, powerful cascade and the scenic hike through Green Mountain National Forest. Many highlight the rewarding nature of the trek, especially after rain. However, some caution that the trail's challenging, rocky, and uphill terrain, along with stream crossings, makes it less suitable for young children or those seeking an easy walk.
"Great 4.7 mile walk with about a 1000 foot elevation gain. Definitely wear boots or waterproof hiking sneakers. Can be a bit muddy and you also have a few streams to cross. Highly recommended."
Ron Milkowski
"Such a great hike! We found it to be a little challenging with stream crossings and trying to avoid mud since we didn't bring actual hiking shoes, so if you are a well prepared hiker, you will have no problems.
Another review posted the mileage, and I was so grateful for that. It's about 2.25 miles one way. Some reviews complain that the waterfall isn't worth it, but I think it is. Plus, we hiked for exercise and the experience, not just for the waterfall. Expect to spend at least 2 hours here."
Jennifer Skinner
"Great hike with a beautiful waterfall 😀 Highly recommend going after a good rain (it had rained for about a week when we went) but also wear appropriate footwear. The rocks can be muddy and slippery and a few small rivers to cross. Took us a little over 2hrs round trip and enjoyed the entire hike."
Sara Sullivan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lye Brook Falls is located within the Green Mountain National Forest near Manchester, VT. The trailhead is accessible via Glen Road. Many visitors use GPS or navigation apps to find the trailhead, which is part of the Lye Brook Wilderness area.
Yes, there is parking available at the Lye Brook Falls trailhead. However, it can fill up, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is recommended.
The Lye Brook Falls trail is known for having minimal signage and natural, unmaintained paths. While it's generally well-trodden, having a trail map or using a navigation app on your phone can be helpful.
Public transportation options to reach Lye Brook Falls are very limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange for a ride to the trailhead.
The most common route is an out-and-back hike, approximately 4.4 to 4.6 miles round trip, with a significant elevation gain of around 800-1000 feet. The trail follows Lye Brook upstream.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Lye Brook Falls or hike the surrounding trails in the Green Mountain National Forest. It's a free natural attraction.
Lye Brook Falls is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, trail conditions can vary significantly with weather, especially in winter.
Yes, Lye Brook Falls is technically open in winter, but the trail can be covered in snow and ice, making it significantly more challenging and potentially dangerous. Proper winter hiking gear and experience are essential.
While dogs are generally allowed in Green Mountain National Forest, some reviews suggest the Lye Brook Falls trail is not ideal for dogs due to its rocky and challenging terrain. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and leashed.
Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours for the round trip hike, depending on their pace and how long they spend at the waterfall. Some reviews mention it taking a little over 2 hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Reviews vary, but many describe the hike as challenging rather than moderate. It's a consistent uphill climb over rocky terrain with stream crossings.
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or sneakers are highly recommended due to muddy conditions and stream crossings. Avoid open-toed shoes or casual sneakers. +1
There are typically no developed restroom facilities directly at the Lye Brook Falls trailhead or along the trail. Be prepared to use nature's facilities responsibly.
The falls are most impressive after significant rainfall. Fall foliage season offers beautiful scenery, but water flow might be lower. Summer is also popular. 
Many reviewers advise against bringing young children or dogs due to the steep, rocky, and potentially slippery terrain and stream crossings. It's better suited for experienced hikers.
📸 📸 Photography
The main attraction is the 125-foot waterfall itself. Capture its grandeur from various angles, especially after rain. The surrounding forest also offers beautiful shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and its surroundings. Consider a tripod for stable shots, especially in lower light conditions or to capture water movement.
Drone usage is subject to regulations within the Green Mountain National Forest. Always check current FAA and Forest Service guidelines before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. Midday sun can be harsh, but the waterfall's spray might create interesting effects.
The trail leads you close to the base of the falls, offering direct views. Be mindful of slippery rocks when positioning yourself for the best shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking a more accessible nature experience in the Manchester, VT area, exploring shorter, flatter trails or visiting local parks might be a better fit. However, for adventurous families with older, capable children, the Lye Brook Falls hike can be a rewarding accomplishment.
👟 Hikers Seeking a Challenge
Experienced hikers will appreciate the natural, unmaintained trails and the sense of immersion in the Green Mountain National Forest. The 125-foot waterfall at the end is a stunning reward for your efforts, especially after a good rain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lye Brook Falls Trail Experience
Many visitors emphasize the importance of proper footwear. Waterproof hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are essential to navigate the often muddy and slippery terrain and to safely cross the streams. Casual shoes or open-toed sandals are not recommended.
Despite the physical demands, the scenery along the trail is frequently praised. Hikers enjoy the immersion in the Green Mountain National Forest, with its rugged wilderness and natural beauty. The payoff at the end is the impressive 125-foot Lye Brook Falls, which is particularly spectacular after periods of rain.
+1 The overall experience is often described as worth the effort for nature lovers and hikers seeking a genuine outdoor adventure. Best Times to Visit for Optimal Views and Experience
Fall is another popular time to visit, not just for the waterfall but also for the stunning autumn foliage that blankets the Green Mountain National Forest. The vibrant colors add an extra layer of beauty to the hiking experience. However, it's worth noting that water flow can sometimes be lower in the fall season compared to wetter periods.
+1While the falls are accessible year-round, winter visits present significant challenges. The trail can be covered in snow and ice, requiring specialized gear and considerable hiking experience. For most visitors, spring, summer, and fall offer the most accessible and enjoyable conditions, with the caveat that checking recent rainfall is key for the best waterfall views.
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