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Falls of Lana Trail

Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont · 4 min read

Distance
3.5 mi
Elevation Gain
700 ft
Difficulty
easy-moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
3 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • 100-foot Falls of Lana waterfall
  • Lake Dunmore views on the approach
  • Moosalamoo National Recreation Area trail network connection
  • Popular with families on summer and fall weekends
  • Connects to longer Moosalamoo Loop routes

Overview

Falls of Lana is one of the most photogenic waterfall destinations in the Green Mountain National Forest, and the 3.5-mile out-and-back route to reach it is accessible enough for most hikers while still requiring some honest effort. The falls drop approximately 100 feet over a series of ledges in a narrow gorge just above Lake Dunmore, one of the larger lakes in Addison County.

The trail is part of the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, a 20,000-acre unit of the national forest in the northern section with well-developed trail infrastructure and consistent signage. The Moosalamoo area is one of the better-organized day-hiking destinations in Vermont's national forest system, and the Falls of Lana route is typically the most visited trail in the system.

The 700-foot elevation gain is mostly concentrated in the middle section of the route near the falls gorge. The lower trail along Lake Dunmore is gentle, making this a reasonable choice for hikers who are reasonably fit but not looking for a full-day summit adventure. The Moosalamoo Loop connects from this trail for those wanting a longer outing.

The Route

Miles 0 to 0.8: Lake Dunmore approach. The trail leaves the Branbury State Park trailhead and follows a relatively flat path through mixed forest near the shore of Lake Dunmore. The lake is visible through the trees on the right for much of this section. Trail signage is good; follow signs for Falls of Lana.

Miles 0.8 to 1.5: Gorge climb and falls. The trail turns away from the lake and begins ascending toward the gorge. The grade increases and the tread becomes rockier. Some sections require short scrambles over root-and-rock terrain. The sound of the falls becomes audible well before the viewpoint. At mile 1.5, the trail reaches a viewing area above the main drop of the falls. A use trail descends to the base pool; this section is steep and requires careful footing, especially on wet rock.

Miles 1.5 to 1.75: Upper falls area. The trail continues a short distance above the main falls to reach a secondary viewpoint and the top of the falls sequence. The views here look down the gorge toward Lake Dunmore. This is a good turnaround point for the standard out-and-back.

Return: Retrace the route to the trailhead.

When to Visit

Spring (May through early June): Peak water volume from snowmelt produces the most dramatic falls display. The lower trail may be muddy; the upper trail is generally firm.

Summer (June through August): The classic family hiking season. Warm temperatures make the lake views and swimming near the base pool especially appealing. Parking at Branbury fills on hot summer weekends by mid-morning.

Fall (September through mid-October): Reduced crowds, excellent foliage color, and comfortable temperatures make this the preferred season for many hikers. The falls display modest but photogenic flow.

Winter: Not a standard winter hiking destination due to icy conditions near the falls. The lower trail near the lake is accessible on snowshoes.

What to Bring

Many hikers on this route carry:

  • 1-2 liters of water per person (individual needs vary; the hike is not long but the gorge section is warm in summer)
  • Snacks for a 2 to 3-hour outing
  • Camera or phone for the falls
  • Sturdy footwear with grip (the rocks near the falls can be slippery)
  • Insect repellent in June and July
  • An extra layer for the upper gorge in cool or windy conditions

Practical Details

The Branbury State Park trailhead has flush restrooms and a parking area. State park day-use fees apply as of 2026; verify current rates with Vermont State Parks. USFS passes are not honored at state park trailheads.

The trail is signed throughout the Moosalamoo network. Follow Falls of Lana signage from the state park trailhead.

Cell service is limited but may be available in spots near the lake. Download an offline map before your trip.

Dogs are welcome. Leash your dog near the falls area where the trail is narrow and rocky.

For a longer trip in the Moosalamoo area, the Moosalamoo Loop adds significant mileage and includes the Falls of Lana as one of its highlights.

Getting There

From Middlebury, take Route 7 south to Route 53, then follow Route 53 south along the east shore of Lake Dunmore. Branbury State Park is on the right side of Route 53. The drive from Middlebury takes approximately 20 minutes.

From Rutland, take Route 7 north to Route 53, then north along Lake Dunmore to Branbury State Park on the left. The drive takes approximately 25 minutes.

The USFS Middlebury Ranger District at fs.usda.gov/greenmountain has current trail and road conditions.

Trailhead Parking

Branbury State Park trailhead on Route 53 along Lake Dunmore; state park day-use fee applies (as of 2026). Overflow parking available during peak summer weekends.

← Back to Green Mountain National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Falls of Lana Trail good for children?
This trail is popular with families due to the waterfall payoff at a reasonable distance. The upper section involves some rocky scrambling near the falls that requires attention with younger children. The easy-moderate rating reflects that middle section; the lower trail is straightforward.
Is there a fee to park at the Falls of Lana trailhead?
The primary trailhead is at Branbury State Park, which charges a state park day-use fee as of 2026. Check current rates with Vermont State Parks before your visit.
What is the best time of year to see the falls at high flow?
Late spring (May through early June) sees the highest water volume following snowmelt. The falls are dramatic in this period but the trail can also be muddier. Summer flow is lower but still photogenic. Fall conditions in September and October offer solid flow and good foliage color.
Does this trail connect to other Moosalamoo trails?
Yes. The Falls of Lana Trail is part of the broader Moosalamoo trail network and can be connected to the full Moosalamoo Loop and other routes in the recreation area. The full loop is covered separately in the Moosalamoo Loop trail guide.
Is swimming allowed at the falls?
The pools at the base of the falls attract swimmers in summer. Swimming is at your own discretion on national forest lands, and no lifeguards are present. The rocks near the falls can be slippery. Exercise appropriate caution.