Birdwatching in Vermont, p. 107.

Barr Hill is one of the highest points in Greensboro. From the open field at the trailhead, there is a stunning, nearly panoramic view that sweeps from Spruce and Signal Mountains at Groton State Park to the southern Green Mountains, Woodbury Mountain, Camel’s Hump, Elmore Mountain, and Mount Mansfield.

Barr Hill Natural Area is owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy of Vermont. The Philip Gray family donated this land, which was immortalized in Wallace Stegner’s book Crossing to Safety, to the Conservancy in 1972. Every spring, volunteers maintain the trail and picnic area for all to enjoy.

There is a self-guided, .33-mile or 0.8-mile trail loop on the preserve. Both are easy hikes, ideal for children.

From a spur trail, there is a magnificent view of Caspian Lake, which appears suspended in mid-air. Further along the loop, there are views to the northwest of Belvidere Mountain and Jay Peak.

The trail traverses fern glades and a ledge outcropping, which was once ground down by glaciers, and passes through dark, coniferous woods where you’ll find beds of sphagnum moss so thick it’s tempting to stretch out and take a nap. Barr Hill is also an excellent place for bird watching. If you have binoculars you may see hawks and common ravens from the trail lookouts.

Stone fire rings are available for picnickers. In winter, ski trails from the Craftsbury Outdoor Center in Greensboro cross the preserve.

The TrailFinder website has a description and map of a hike at Barr Hill Natural Area.