Facts About Vermont’s Waterfall, Thundering Brook Falls
- The falls are fed by the waters from the surrounding Green Mountains.
- Thundering Brook Falls plunges over 125 feet, making it one of Vermont’s tallest waterfalls.
- When fully flowing, it resembles the sound of Thunder, which is where it got the name.
- The falls are located just off of the Appalachian Trail, so you may meet thru-hikers!
Guide to Vermont’s Waterfall Trailhead: Location and Directions
The trailhead is located in the town of Killington, Vermont. Coming from Rutland, take 100/4 to River Rd. The trailhead is located on River road to the left with parking for about 6 parking spaces, and plenty of roadside parking since it’s a quiet road. This is the longer route to the base of the falls on a viewing platform.
There is also a route off of Thundering Brook Rd, which is shorter but only leads to the top of the falls where there is a swimming hole and smaller falls.
Neither trailhead has a bathroom or changing area, so come prepared.
Best Time to Visit Thundering Brook Falls in Vermont
While Thundering Brook Falls is an amazing waterfall all year, but Spring is the best for the rushing waters. Also, after a heavy rainfall will really bring out the best of the falls. We enjoyed visiting during the Spring for a quick way to get out of the house. Plus, with the temperatures still being cool, the bugs were manageable.
Family Friendly Waterfall Hike: Thundering Brook Falls
Look no further for a short hike for the entire family. Thundering Brook Falls is suitable for EVERYBODY. The easy-moderate trail is almost fully boardwalk until the very end, which is an even gravel/dirt trail to the viewing platform. There are some exposed roots and uphill climb on the dirt portion. This is a wheelchair friendly and stroller friendly trail overall. The boardwalk isn’t too narrow, but there are “pull off” portions to allow others to pass with ease if needed.
Length and Difficulty of the Trail to the Waterfall
The trail to Thundering Brook Falls spans approximately 1 mile round trip, making it an ideal outing for all hikers, including children. The terrain is fairly flat with a small uphill section to get to the platform. Check out the details here. The trail is an out and back type of trail, so you will come back the same way you went out to access the falls.
We use a hiking carrier with our daughter since she is still a new walker, but we passed a handful of young children with their families taking on this trail to explore the waterfall.
Personal Thoughts on Hiking Thundering Brook Falls Trail
Honestly, this waterfall hike has been on my list since the very first time I visited Vermont while camping at Gifford Woods State Park. Now that we live locally, I knew it was finally time to cross it off of my “need to see” list since we missed the falls twice due to prioritizing other things. We really enjoyed getting outside and seeing the falls. It was great that it was an easier “hike” unlike some of the surrounding trails in Vermont and Upstate New York. We did it right after a rain storm in Spring, so the water was really flowing. I do plan on returning once my daughter is able to walk it herself, because the glow in her eye and the giggles of seeing and hearing the rushing waterfall was well worth the visit. I’d say as long as you can spare the extra time, this is a must see waterfall while in the area!
Leave No Trace and Enjoy Thundering Brook Falls Trail!
As always, nature is our home and home to others. Respect wildlife you may come across near the trail and always pack in anything you pack out. Follow all leave no trace principles. It is our responsibility as hikers to leave each destination in better condition than you found it, so that all can enjoy!
