Danby combines a striking location between the Taconic Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east with specific hiking destinations and a marble tradition dating back to the early 19th century. Those looking for a vacation rental for a stay in Danby can explore the landscape, trails, and local history as distinct highlights.

Landscape and Location

The Taconic Mountains lie west of Danby, and the Green Mountains lie to the east. Otter Creek and the Vermont Valley border the eastern edge of the town. The village of Danby lies a few hundred meters west of the U.S. Route 7 bypass; its proximity to the road gives tourists and travelers easy access.

The Otter Creek Wildlife Management Area lies in southern Rutland County along the town boundary between Mount Tabor and Danby.

Marble and Local History

Marble was first quarried in Danby in 1827. Danby marble, from the world's largest underground marble quarry, can be found in the Jefferson Memorial and the United States Supreme Court Building. The story spans from the start of quarrying in Danby to two specifically named structures where the material was used.

The Danby Village Historic District is a cohesive, well-preserved collection of buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The S.L. Griffith Library opened in 1904 and is still in operation. Check the library's local visitor policies before your visit.

Hikes and Trails

The hike to Little Rock Pond is 4.8 miles long and begins at a parking area on Forest Service Road 10 (Danby-Landgrove Road).

The Appalachian Trail crosses the same Forest Service Road 10 (Danby-Landgrove Road) 3.5 miles east of U.S. Route 7 in Danby. Use the crossing as your reference point for the Appalachian Trail; the Little Rock Pond hike begins at a parking area on the same road.

The Woodlawn Trails trailhead is accessible from Danby via Danby Mountain Road; after 4.2 miles, turn onto Scallop Drive or Baldwin Lane. The Woodlawn Trails run along the ridge of Woodlawn Mountain and offer several scenic viewpoints. Check the directions before you travel.

The Woodlawn ATV trail system runs for nearly 25 miles across the steep, forested mountain slopes between Danby and Pawlet. Conditions and access may change; check the current situation before making plans.

When considering the distances, it is helpful to note what each one refers to: 4.8 miles is the length of the hike to Little Rock Pond, 3.5 miles is the location of the Appalachian Trail crossing east of U.S. Route 7, and 4.2 miles is the distance to the turn mentioned in the Woodlawn trail directions.

Explore more destinations: Castleton, Shrewsbury, Mendon, Rutland, Brandon, Chittenden, Killington

For the broader travel overview: Rutland County.