The “Equinox Highlands”, comprised of Mount Equinox (3,840’ elevation) and Mother Myrick Mountain (3,361’ elevation) are part of the northernmost end of the Taconic Mountain range. The Rich Northern Hardwood Forest on Mount Equinox and Mother Myrick Mountain is one of the largest and best examples of this natural community in the Northeast. Most examples of this community are small – five to 10 acres, sometimes a bit more.
The area on Mount Equinox is believed to cover at least 2,000 acres (both within and outside of the EPT holdings), and in many places it is very mature. The best expression of this forest community is found between 1,300 feet and 2,500 feet elevations. Several rare plants are associated with the Rich Northern Hardwood Community.
One of the primary purposes of the Vermont Land Trust (VLT) conservation easement is to maintain the Rich Northern Hardwood Forest in its natural state and to allow it to attain an old growth condition over time. When that state is reached, one may expect to see a forest that has a mix of large, stately trees, young growth where trees have naturally died and fallen, abundant downed wood where a variety of animals and plants can thrive, and standing dead snags where birds and mammals make their homes. The soil will be loose and fertile, and there will be a great diversity of native plants, fungi, birds, mammals, insects, and amphibians.
All trails are open for pedestrian use. The Equinox Preservation Trust may close some trails temporarily for repairs or to protect them from damage during muddy conditions.
An enlarged trail map is on display along with copies of the handy pocket guide & trail map, updated program information and special notices.
Informational kiosks greet visitors at both entrances to the Preserve. A third kiosk is located near the trail connector at the rear of the Equinox Hotel parking area.
Naturalists have long held Mt. Equinox in high esteem for its beauty and natural diversity, a valued source of study by botanists and ecologists since the late 1800s.
A variety of mammals populate the slopes of Mt. Equinox, protected by the thick natural cover and food sources that the forest provides.
Our Mission: To encourage the responsible use of the land and protection of our natural and cultural history by providing the opportunity to interact with the environment through education, research and environmentally sensitive recreation.
Equinox Preservation Trust
P.O. Box 986
Manchester, VT 05254
802-362-7794
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