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Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
EasyCompacted

Brookline Rail Trail

Brookline, Vermont · Hillsborough County

Brookline Rail Trail is a easy hiking trail near Brookline in Hillsborough County, Vermont.. The surface is compacted. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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42.74312, -71.67260
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Brookline Rail Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High67°F
Avg Low45°F
Peak Rain Chance36%
Humidity67%
UV (avg)6
Air Quality30 · Good
Today
🌧
Light Rain
55°/41°
💧 36%🌬 20mph
5:12 AM8:16 PM
Sun
🌧
Rain
68°/42°
💧 11%🌬 10mph
5:11 AM8:17 PM
Mon
🌦
Light Drizzle
60°/45°
💧 6%🌬 11mph
5:11 AM8:18 PM
Tue
☁️
Overcast
72°/44°
💧 7%🌬 8mph
5:10 AM8:18 PM
Wed
☁️
Overcast
78°/51°
💧 4%🌬 8mph
5:10 AM8:19 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Brookline Rail Trail

Brookline Rail Trail is a easy hiking trail near Brookline in Hillsborough County, Vermont.. The surface is compacted. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 20 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.
  • 🌡
    Layers for swings
    Daily temp range is wide (45°F low → 67°F high). Pack layers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 6)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Vermont

Trail conditions in Vermont change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Brookline Rail Trail?

Brookline Rail Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on Brookline Rail Trail?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail.

What is the trail surface on Brookline Rail Trail?

The surface is compacted. Plan footwear accordingly.

When is the best time to hike Brookline Rail Trail?

Vermont has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.