Length: Variable – see descriptions
Feature: Falls, stream
Max. Elevation Change: Variable – see descriptions
USGS maps: Breadloaf Quad
Amount of use: Moderate-High
Hiking level: Easy
Average hike time: Variable – see descriptions
Use restrictions: No horses, mountain bikes, or motorized vehicles
Texas Falls Nature Trail
The trail meanders through the forest along Texas Brook toward the Texas Falls Picnic Area. To loop back to the falls area bear right before crossing the paved road to reach the upper section of the nature trail. The trail loop length is 1.2 miles, with a 70 foot elevation change. Average hike time is 1 hour.
Hancock Trail
The trail follows along the Hancock Branch of the White River, and crosses the river three times on bridges. There are several views of the mountain stream as the trail climbs gradually to its end at 1.3 miles.
Max. elevation change is 320 feet. Average hiking time is 1 – 1 ½ hrs. round trip.
Please practice Leave No Trace ethics, such as carry out what you carry in.
From Rochester, travel north on Route 100 to its intersection with Route 125. Travel west on Route 125 for 3.1 miles, and turn right onto Forest Road 39. Parking is located at the Falls Observation Site at 0.5 miles, at the Picnic Area at 0.7 miles, and at the end of Forest Road 212, beyond the gate on FR 39.
From Middlebury, travel south on Route 7 to its intersection with Route 125. Travel east on Route 125 for 9.8 miles, and turn left onto Forest Road 39. Parking is located at the Falls Observation Site at 0.5 miles, at the Picnic Area at 0.7 miles, and at the end of Forest Road 212, beyond the gate on FR 39.
Food and Services: Rochester restaurants and fuel stations
For all Emergencies: 911
911 Information: The trailhead is in the Town of Hancock on Forest Road 39