equinox preservation trust

It's hard to believe Mount Equinox and the Skyline Drive do not have a separate listing, apart from the Preservation Trust. The views along the drive are stunning, and the visitors' center at the top is a sparkling oasis full of interesting information about the nearby monastery. There's also a display of marvelous photos from all the old "hill climb" races, with vintage Bugatti and Porche race cars. Don't discount the other reviewers' remarks about making sure your brakes are in order! The mountain is steep, and your car will be tested on the way up and on the way down! We visited with 4 kids, 9 to 14 years old. .....and NONE OF THEM COMPLAINED ONCE!! When they had enough of the indoor exhibits at the visitors' center, they simply scampered outside to enjoy Mother Nature and the gorgeous view.It's not cheap. You'll pay $15 for yourself and the car, and then some for each additional passenger (kids are a bit less than adults, but not much!). You'll feel a bit cheated when you drop your entry token at the gate, but you will have forgotten all about it by the time you're headed back downhill. (Actually, I'm sure you could lie about who's in the car with you, but you'll feel guilty....)The gift shop sells a few refreshments (sodas, snacks, etc), but mostly religious trinkets, rosaries, etc.. and not much in the way of traditional "souvenirs". We guessed that it's staffed by nuns, at least that's what the kids thought based on the "nice but no nonsense" friendliness. We visited in July. It was a breathtakingly beautiful day. Knowing how wonderful Vermont is in the Fall, I'd recommend a visit in September, early October as well.

when deciding where to hike- especially in winter - you have your choice of muddy, closed, crowded or icy trails around the area. We love choosing the trails behind Equinox because they are well marked, you can split your group but easily meet up, they tend to be sheltered (thick trees) so easy to walk for all levels. Love how the info stands present the hikes in terms of time. Makes a group decision easy. My favorite part is the wrought iron gates at the trail head, and the easy walk into the Equinox hotel to hit the Marsh tavern for the soup and cocktail I earned walking a beautiful trail set.

Very nice hikes, well marked in a marvellous setting. The brochure , the info stands , ... all well kept and nicely done. Walking on the mountain was a pleasure

All levels of hikes. Beautiful area. Trails are clearly marked. Park near red gate, pick up trail map at kiosk and go. Equinox pond trail is easy and quite scenic.

Went up the toll road recently and its a great view both in the way up plus at the top. We were told that the top was in mist but was completely clear when we got there. Price is $15 for the car and driver plus $5 for each extra person. The building at the top was closed when we got there but freat views. Cold at the top so dress well and make sure your car has good brakes as you will be on them all the way back down

Visited in late September, the foilage view from above was absolutly incredible.This road is closed in the winter, clearly because of weather conditions.Worth the trip to really see the beauty of fall foilage.

Variety of hikes--pond views and higher overlooks. Well-maintained and well-marked trails with maps available at entrances.

We went up via our car this fall ...breath taking fall foliage ...so drive was scenic .Had great views ...but was very windy ,so plz dress accordingly .bring jackets ,gloves etc.sep if with kids .not sure if toll paid below at gate is really worth.

Went up on Sat morning (Columbus day wknd) thought the place would be jamming but it was pretty quiet. 15$ for just me & my car, not bad. Beautiful ride on the way up, few parking areas to look at the views. Reaching the summit wad pressed with the welcome center, very clean and taken care of. Along with quite the story for it. Must add this to your day trip list.

not sure if this is the right place but here goes. we took the toll road up the mountain . it was great. breathtaking views. beautiful building up top.well worth the drive

We went on family hike to the pond, and the early fall views were spectacular. The trails are wide and very well maintained. I was impressed by all the stocked maps available at the trailhead by the equinox hotel. The hotel also had a large playground, which our family used after our hike.

Be sure your car is able to make the climb and the descent; i.e., be sure your brakes are in excellent working order! The trip is currently $15 for car and driver and an additional $5 for each subsequent passenger. The climb is fast and steep with 3 pull-overs for views and/or to rest your car. At the top are simply amazing views for any time of year, the skyline lodge (think lodge building with minimal interior amenities and historical information as well as a small observation deck on each end) sits atop the summit.Beyond the lodge is a trail you can walk (less than a mile) that is very walkable (with sensible footwear), though a steep-ish ascent back. Dogs are welcome on the trail (which extends beyond the Overlook Rock). But whatever you pack in, please pack out. We saw far too many cigarette butts and the only plastic bag we'd seen lying anywhere in our whole trip through Vermont.

We drove up Mt. Equinox and took a variety of pictures. Next time we return we plan to pack a picnic and enjoy more of the day up on top, its beautiful!!!

I went there with friends. My friend Barb had gone up there with her daughter recently & she wanted to show this to us. It was wonderful. Great views. Easy, relaxing & beautiful. We loved the history.

Multiple trail system suitable for walkers, runners and more experienced hikers. Take the trail to the southernVermont arts center, pack a lunch and head back. Robins lookout offers beautiful vistas. Hike everyday! It's good for you!