Vermont’s VAST Trail 123 Somerset Reservoir Road
Mountain reservoir trail with technical crossings
VAST Trail 123 cuts through some of Vermont’s most unforgiving terrain, threading between Stratton Mountain and Somerset Reservoir through Green Mountain National Forest. The route follows old logging roads and snowmobile corridors, with Deerfield River crossings that’ll test your water fording skills and rock ledges that demand precise wheel placement. The payoff comes at Somerset Reservoir, where you’ll find dispersed camping spots with mountain views that stretch into Massachusetts.
This is moderate-to-difficult territory requiring high-clearance 4WD with good approach angles. Multiple water crossings range from ankle-deep to bumper-high depending on season, and the final push to the reservoir involves loose rock and steep grades that’ll have you in low range. Best tackled May through October when water levels are predictable. Fuel up in Wilmington before heading in — it’s a solid day’s worth of driving with camping opportunities at the reservoir for those wanting to extend the adventure.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2100 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Wilmington, Vermont |
| Land manager | Green Mountain National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle VAST Trail 123, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance 4WD like a Tacoma or 4Runner can manage it, but low-range is mandatory for the steep grades and rocky sections. Skid plates are strongly advised given the mixed surface and water crossings. A lift helps but isn't a dealbreaker.
When does the trail typically open in spring and is it accessible in fall?
Best window is May through October. Spring mud season in Vermont runs late March through late April and can leave the trail badly rutted and impassable even for 4WD rigs. Fall access is generally solid through mid-October before early snowfall starts closing higher terrain.
Do I need a permit to run this trail or camp along it?
No permit is required to drive the trail, but dispersed camping falls under Green Mountain National Forest rules — 14-night stay limit, 200 feet from water sources and trails, and leave-no-trace applies. No fee to enter.
What's the hardest section and what makes it technical?
The stream crossings are the crux — expect water that can run thigh-deep on the vehicle after rain, with slick rocky bottoms that can deflect your line fast. The steep grades on either side of the crossings add consequence if you lose momentum. Walk crossings before you commit.
Is there any cell service on trail, and how far is the nearest gas from the trailhead?
There is zero cell service for the entire 18 miles — plan for full comms blackout and carry a satellite communicator. Wilmington, Vermont is your last stop for gas and supplies, roughly 10 miles from the trailhead start.
Trail track
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