Vermont’s Trails: Where the Green Mountains Live Up to Their Name (and the Maple Syrup Flows)
Vermont. The Green Mountain State. A place where the hills roll endlessly, the forests are impossibly lush, and the air smells like fresh pine and, occasionally, maple syrup. If you’re looking for hikes that offer serene woodland beauty, challenging ascents, and views that stretch into forever, Vermont is your perfect escape. So, grab your sturdy boots, prepare for some mud (it’s called “Green Mountain State” for a reason!), and get ready to earn your post-hike craft beer. Your legs are about to get very familiar with some very beautiful terrain!
- The Long Trail (A Vermont Icon)
Distance: Approximately 273 miles, running the length of Vermont from Massachusetts to Quebec.
Terrain: Wildly varied. Expect rocky climbs, muddy sections (especially in spring), root-filled paths, steep ascents and descents, and beautiful forest walking. It follows the main ridge of the Green Mountains.
Scenic Views: Panoramic views from exposed summits, lush hardwood and conifer forests, pristine alpine ponds, and glimpses of Vermont’s classic rolling hills.
Notable Nook-and-Cranies: The Long Trail is America’s oldest long-distance hiking trail, predating the Appalachian Trail (which shares the Long Trail’s path for about 100 miles in southern Vermont). You can tackle shorter sections for a day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip. Popular sections include the approach to Mount Mansfield or Camel’s Hump. It’s a true wilderness experience, offering shelters along the way. Be prepared for mud – it’s a rite of passage. And remember, what goes up, must eventually come down (and probably involves a slide or two in the mud). - Mount Mansfield (Stowe/Smugglers’ Notch)
Distance: Varies greatly by trail.
- Long Trail (South from Route 108): Approximately 5.0 miles round trip to summit (strenuous).
- Hell Brook Trail: Approximately 3.0 miles round trip (extremely steep and rocky).
- Profanity Trail: Similar to Hell Brook, equally challenging.
- Gondola/Toll Road access: Easier routes from upper mountain.
Terrain: Extremely strenuous, especially on direct summit trails. Very steep, rocky, exposed sections above treeline. Can be slippery when wet.
Scenic Views: As Vermont’s highest peak (4,393 feet), the views are unparalleled. On a clear day, you can see Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks in New York, and even the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The summit ridge is famous for its unique profile, resembling a giant’s face.
Notable Nook-and-Cranies: Climbing Mount Mansfield is the ultimate Vermont hiking challenge. The Long Trail from Route 108 is a popular ascent. For the truly adventurous, Hell Brook Trail is notoriously steep and rugged – definitely not for the faint of heart! Above treeline, the terrain is exposed and can be very windy. You can also take the toll road or gondola part way up for an easier ascent to the summit ridge. Watch out for rare alpine plants and give them space. You’ll feel like a true Vermonter after conquering this one (and probably earn a well-deserved creemee – that’s soft serve to you out-of-staters!).
- Camel’s Hump (Duxbury/Huntington)
Distance: Varies.
- Burrows Trail: Approximately 4.8 miles round trip (most popular, moderate to strenuous).
- Forest City Trail: Approximately 6.0 miles round trip (strenuous).
Terrain: Strenuous. Steep, rocky, and often root-filled paths through dense forest, with exposed sections near the summit.
Scenic Views: Incredible 360-degree views from the unique, humped summit. You’ll see the rolling Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, and the surrounding valleys.
Notable Nook-and-Cranies: Camel’s Hump (4,083 feet) is Vermont’s most recognizable mountain, thanks to its distinct double-humped profile. It’s a protected natural area, so there are no roads or facilities on the mountain itself, preserving its wild character. The Burrows Trail is the most popular route, offering a steady, rewarding climb. It’s a great “middle ground” mountain – challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment, but not quite as daunting as Mansfield for many. Don’t be surprised if you share the summit with a friendly dog or two.
- Stowe Pinnacle Trail (Stowe)
Distance: Approximately 3.7 miles round trip.
Terrain: Moderately strenuous. A steady, uphill climb through a mixed forest, with some rocky and rooty sections, and a steep final push to the summit ledges.
Scenic Views: Panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, the Worcester Range, and glimpses of Mount Mansfield. Particularly stunning during peak foliage.
Notable Nook-and-Cranies: This is a hugely popular and very rewarding hike in the Stowe area, offering big views for a relatively short effort. The summit features open ledges perfect for picnicking and soaking in the scenery. It’s a great option for a morning or afternoon hike, especially if you’re looking for something less intense than Mansfield. Just try to go on a weekday if possible to avoid the biggest crowds – everyone loves a good “pinnacle” view! - Smugglers’ Notch State Park Trails (Cambridge/Stowe)
Distance: Numerous trails, from short, accessible walks to longer, more challenging connections to the Long Trail.
Terrain: Varies. Some trails are relatively flat and easy (e.g., Sterling Pond Trail), while others are steep, rocky, and rugged (e.g., Hell Brook, as mentioned for Mansfield).
Scenic Views: Dramatic mountain pass scenery, unique rock formations, dense forests, and beautiful waterfalls.
Notable Nook-and-Cranies: Smugglers’ Notch is a famous mountain pass with a rich history of smuggling (hence the name!).
- Sterling Pond Trail: (2.3 miles round trip) A popular, moderate hike that leads to a beautiful, clear alpine pond. Great for a swim on a hot day!
- Bingham Falls: (0.3 miles round trip) A very short, easy walk to a picturesque waterfall and swimming hole.
The Notch Road (Route 108) closes in winter, but in summer, it’s a scenic drive with trailheads branching off. The sheer cliffs and narrow pass make for unique hiking terrain.
- Thundering Falls (Appalachian Trail – Killington)
Distance: Approximately 0.4 miles round trip (accessible boardwalk).
Terrain: Easy. A wide, accessible boardwalk.
Scenic Views: Leads to a beautiful cascade and waterfall along the Appalachian Trail, where the water tumbles down a series of ledges.
Notable Nook-and-Ranies: This is one of Vermont’s most accessible waterfalls and a popular spot along the Appalachian Trail. The boardwalk makes it suitable for all ages and abilities, including wheelchairs. It’s a quick stop that offers a lovely glimpse of nature’s beauty and a chance to wave at intrepid AT thru-hikers. It’s a great little leg-stretcher if you’re driving through the Killington area. - Mount Philo State Park (Charlotte)
Distance: Various trails, from 0.7 to 1.6 miles one-way to the summit.
Terrain: Easy to moderate. A gradual, wide path (also a park road) or steeper, wooded trails to the summit.
Scenic Views: Fantastic panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack Mountains of New York, and the surrounding farmland. It’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Notable Nook-and-Cranies: As Vermont’s oldest state park, Mount Philo (968 feet) offers big views for minimal effort. You can hike or drive to the summit, where there’s a historic stone lodge. It’s a popular spot for picnics and families, offering a relaxed outdoor experience. It proves that not every great view needs to come with hours of arduous climbing – sometimes, a charming little mountain is just perfect.
So, whether you’re tackling Vermont’s highest peaks, exploring historic long trails, or just enjoying a gentle walk to a waterfall, the Green Mountain State is ready to enchant you. Pack your layers, embrace the mud, and prepare to fall in love with Vermont’s vibrant, verdant trails! Happy hiking, and don’t forget to reward yourself with some local maple syrup.