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
A joyful experience with community on a landscape of consequence, in support of 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 |
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BECOME A SPONSOR
Businesses and individuals looking for community sponsorship opportunities, this is your clear path to act. Sponsorship supports place-based education, land stewardship, and free public access for the 30,000 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.