We recently traveled to Jay Peak for an overnight stay. It was the beginning of a long weekend to celebrate our anniversary. We left mid morning for the one hour drive to the mountain. Our plan was to hike Jay.
My sister, who is an accomplished and well-traveled hiker, told me that this was one of her favorite hikes. She assured me that for the moderate effort there was a huge payoff.
The trail head is accessed from route 242, just a short drive beyond the ski area. All the literature we read told us the hike would take about four hours, round trip.
Hiking through the cool forest was most enjoyable. There is an abundance of plants and wildlife.
It has been very dry so the trail wasn’t slippery at all, but I imagine it would be during rainy times. There are a lot of rocks to maneuver and it is a fairly steady climb.
Near the top the trail emerges onto one of the ski trails. You can cross the trail and continue climbing the rocks to the Tram House. If you want to go the easy way just turn left and continue up the trail to the Tram House. Climbing over the rocks is worth it for the views, making you feel like you’re really on top of the world.
On these rocks at the peak are two memorial benches. I loved the sentiment on this one.
It says A place to sit, a place to be. A place to appreciate all we see.
My sister was right – you get a lot of bang for your buck (or your efforts).
The climb up took us about an hour and forty minutes. We kept a fairly steady pace, but did stop several times for photos and water breaks.
Jay does offer tram rides if you want to enjoy this incredible mountain but can’t make the climb yourself.
After enjoying a picnic lunch at the top we headed back down, which took about the same length of time. I prefer hiking down (because I sweat less), but it’s less pleasant for my husband and his stiff knees. Next up – the joys of staying at the Tram Haus Lodge and visiting points north.
