Vermont’s VAST Trail 123 Somerset Reservoir Road

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.