Naturalist-led hikes return to Stark Mountain through October
May 12, 2026 | By Waterbury Roundabout
Guided hikes take place on Stark Mountain, home to Mad River Glen ski area. Courtesy photo
Stark Mountain Foundation announced that Vermont Master Naturalist Gene O. Desideraggio is returning this year for a series of free, family-friendly guided hikes starting May 16 and running into October.
More than just a walk in the woods, these are opportunities to get to know the Green Mountains much better.
Hikes will focus on themes pertinent to the season, from vibrant spring wildflowers to the brilliant colors of fall foliage. Along the way, Desideraggio will help hikers discover signs of wildlife, listen for bird calls echoing through the forest, spot animal tracks on the trail, or even find a well-worn bear tree.
Dates for the guided hikes are: May 16, July 18, Aug. 15, Sept. 19, Oct. 3, and Oct. 17. Hikes will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. (unless otherwise noted).
The hikes are free, registration is required, and space is limited. Organizers ask that participants register when they are confident they can attend. If plans change and you are unable to attend a hike for which you are registered, please email contact@starkmountain.org.
Hikes are open to ages 5 and older; a supervising adult must accompany children. Participants will meet at the flagpole at Mad River Glen. The outings are estimated to be about two hours, with varying intensity. Organizers recommend having along a hat and sunglasses, water and snacks, sunscreen and bug spray, a raincoat, and wearing long pants and sturdy shoes. Pets are not allowed.
The first hike on Saturday, May 16, 2-4 p.m., will travel up through the snowshoe trail. Expect to see bright green leaves on the trees on this spring adventure and even some spring ephemeral flowering plants hidden like Easter eggs on the forest floor. Spring is a wonderful time to be in the woods as all the plant life is fresh, and you never know what you’re going to see. Register at starkmountain.org/news-events.
Following the hike, participants are welcome to unwind at Mad River Glen’s Stark’s Pub.
The Stark Mountain Foundation is a nonprofit based in Waitsfield with a mission to preserve and protect the environment and ecosystem of General Stark Mountain, including its recreational access and historic value, and to support programs that promote and sustain that environment for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Find more information at starkmountain.org.