Register to Hike, $25
Can't make it? Donate directly or support a participant!
Become a Sponsor
To ensure your logo appears on materials, please confirm your sponsorship by August 30, 2026.
Saturday, October 3,
2026
in Rupert, Vermont
Hike with Community. Support Merck Forest.
A Fall Fundraiser
to benefit Merck Forest's efforts to give kids (of all ages) access to nature.
What the Day Looks Like
Rain or shine, this joyful experience with the community on a landscape of consequence supports Merck Forest & Farmland Center and the place-based education it provides to regional students of all ages, and the stewardship that happens here. Pick your pace. Pick your loop. It all supports the MFFC mission.
Kids 10 & under are free, and you can add fundraising from friends and family to any registration.
Prizes and bragging rights go to the top fundraisers!
General Guide to Determine Trail Choices: Easy Hiking Trails: Distance: Under 3 miles round trip Elevation gain: Less than 500 feet Terrain: Well-maintained, clearly marked trails Best for beginner hikers, families with children, casual walkers Moderate Hiking Trails: Distance: 3-6 miles roundtrip Elevation gain: 500-1,500 feet Terrain: Some steep sections, uneven surfaces, occasional obstacles Best for intermediate hikers with basic experience Hard/Difficult Hiking Trails: Distance: 6+ miles round trip Elevation gain: 1,500+ feet Terrain: Steep climbs, rough surfaces Best for hikers with strong fitness and experience
Viewpoint Loop
Distance: 2.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 551 feet
Trail Loop is rated Moderate
Mount Antone Summit
Distance, out & back: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 860 feet
Trail is rated Moderate
Lookout Loop
Distance: 6.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,685 feet
Trail is rated Difficult
Farm Center & Discovery Trail
Distance: 2 miles
Elevation Gain: NA
Trail is rated Easy
For 76 years, Merck Forest & Farmland Center has inspired curiosity, love, and responsibility for natural and working lands.
Your registration and participation honor that legacy.
Schedule At-a-Glance
Time | What's Happening |
|---|---|
8:30 AM - 10:30 AM | Check-in opens at the Visitors Center |
11:00 AM to 3:00 PM | Food Trucks, Live Music, Kids' Activities |
12:00 PM | Same-day walk-in registration closes |
2:00 PM | Hiking comes to an end |
3:00 PM | End of Day celebration, Raffle Prizes Awarded |
_edited.png)
BECOME A SPONSOR
Businesses and individuals looking for community sponsorship opportunities, this is for you! Sponsorship supports place-based education, land stewardship, and free public access for the thousands of visitors who come to Merck Forest each year.
Sponsorship Levels:
$2,500
Premier logo placement on the event banner, website, and day-of signage. Recognition from the stage. Eight registrations included.
$1,000
Logo on the event website and day-of signage. Four registrations included.
$500
Listed sponsor on the event website. Two registrations included.
Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors!
FAQ
Merck Forest & Farmland Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring curiosity, love, and responsibility for natural and working lands.
© 2026 Merck Forest & Farmland Center. All rights reserved. Designed and developed by LONDONmiddlebury.