Vermont is one of the best hiking states in New England because it offers an unusually strong mix of mountain summits, alpine ridgelines, lake overlooks, waterfalls, cliff views, and shorter scenic walks. The Green Mountains run the length of the state and create excellent hiking terrain for both casual hikers and experienced peak-baggers. Whether you are looking for the best hikes in Vermont for views, the best waterfall hikes in Vermont, or iconic summit hikes on the Long Trail, Vermont has standout options in every category.

This guide highlights 20 of the best hikes in Vermont, including the state’s highest summit, several classic Green Mountain hikes, one of Vermont’s tallest waterfalls, dramatic lake cliffs, and easy scenic walks. These hikes are spread across northern Vermont, central Vermont, southern Vermont, the Northeast Kingdom, and the Upper Valley, giving you a strong cross-section of what hiking in Vermont is really like.

For more category-specific trail guides, see our Vermont mountain hikes, Vermont waterfall hikes, Vermont scenic hikes, dog-friendly Vermont hikes, and Vermont fall foliage hikes.

Quick Navigation

1. Mount Mansfield
2. Camel’s Hump via Monroe Trail
3. Killington Peak via Bucklin Trail
4. Mount Abraham
5. Mount Ellen
6. Mount Pisgah
7. Sterling Pond Trail
8. Stowe Pinnacle
9. Spruce Peak via Sterling Pond
10. Deer Leap Overlook
11. Lye Brook Falls Trail
12. Bromley Mountain via Long Trail
13. Haystack Mountain
14. Mount Philo
15. Snake Mountain
16. Owl’s Head
17. Thundering Brook Falls
18. Quechee Gorge Trail
19. Robert Frost Interpretive Trail
20. Moss Glen Falls

Why These Are Some of the Best Hikes in Vermont

These hikes stand out because they show the full range of Vermont hiking. Mount Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, Killington Peak, Mount Abraham, and Mount Ellen represent the state’s classic high-elevation summit hikes. Mount Pisgah shows off the dramatic cliff-and-lake scenery of the Northeast Kingdom. Lye Brook Falls, Thundering Brook Falls, and Moss Glen Falls highlight Vermont’s waterfall hiking, while Mount Philo, Snake Mountain, Quechee Gorge, and the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail offer easier scenic options for families, road-trippers, and casual hikers.

1. Mount Mansfield

Length: About 7.6 miles loop
Elevation Gain: About 2,880 feet
Summit Elevation: 4,393 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Best Season: June through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash, but not ideal for all dogs
Parking: Underhill State Park; entrance fee may apply

Mount Mansfield is the highest mountain in Vermont and one of the most iconic summit hikes in New England. The mountain’s ridgeline is often described as resembling a human face, with the “Chin” marking the high point. What makes Mansfield especially memorable is the long open ridge, where hikers leave the enclosed forest and enter one of the rare alpine environments in Vermont.

The classic loop from Underhill State Park using Maple Ridge and Sunset Ridge gives hikers a full Mansfield experience. Maple Ridge is steep, rugged, and more technical, with rock scrambles and exposed sections that require careful footing. Sunset Ridge is still challenging but more scenic and open, making it one of the best descent routes in Vermont. On clear days, views reach across Lake Champlain to the Adirondacks, east toward the White Mountains, and south along the spine of the Green Mountains.

This is one of the best hikes in Vermont for experienced hikers who want a true summit day with big elevation gain, alpine terrain, and serious views. Because Mount Mansfield has fragile alpine vegetation, hikers should stay on rock and marked trails near the summit. This is also a hike where weather matters: wind, clouds, wet rock, and shoulder-season ice can make the upper mountain much more difficult than the mileage suggests.

2. Camel’s Hump via Monroe Trail

Length: About 6.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 2,583 feet
Summit Elevation: 4,083 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Best Season: June through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Monroe Trailhead, Duxbury, VT

Camel’s Hump is one of Vermont’s most recognizable mountains and one of the best summit hikes in the state. Its undeveloped summit gives it a wilder feel than many major peaks in the Northeast. There are no summit roads, ski lifts, or large structures at the top, which helps make the hike feel classic, natural, and distinctly Vermont.

The Monroe Trail climbs from the eastern side of the mountain through hardwood forest and gradually steeper terrain. Near the upper mountain, the route connects toward the exposed summit cone, where the trail becomes rockier and the views begin to open. The summit offers a true 360-degree panorama, including the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and wide views across central Vermont.

Camel’s Hump is one of the best scenic hikes in Vermont because the summit reward is so complete. It is also one of the state’s most important alpine areas, so hikers should avoid stepping on summit vegetation and stay on durable rock surfaces. This is a challenging hike, but for many people it is the perfect Vermont summit: rugged, beautiful, undeveloped, and memorable.

3. Killington Peak via Bucklin Trail

Length: About 7.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 2,457 feet
Summit Elevation: 4,235 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Best Season: May through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Bucklin Trailhead, Wheelerville Road, Mendon, VT

Killington Peak is Vermont’s second-highest mountain and one of the best high-summit hikes in central Vermont. The Bucklin Trail is the most common hiking route because it gives hikers a more natural forest approach to a mountain that is also known for its ski area. The first part of the route is relatively moderate, following an old woods-road style corridor before the grade steepens higher up.

As the trail climbs, it eventually reaches the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail corridor near Cooper Lodge. From there, a short but steep spur leads to the summit area. The final push feels more rugged than the early miles, and the reward is a high-elevation view across the Green Mountains, the Killington region, and surrounding Vermont ridgelines.

Killington is a strong choice for hikers who want a big Vermont summit without the scrambling found on Mount Mansfield. It is still a serious hike, with steady climbing, rocky sections, and mountain weather exposure near the top. The combination of Long Trail history, 4,000-foot peak status, and central Vermont location makes it one of the best hikes in Vermont for hikers building toward bigger New England mountain goals.

4. Mount Abraham

Length: About 5.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,600 feet
Summit Elevation: 4,006 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Best Season: Late May through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Lincoln Gap; road is seasonal

Mount Abraham is one of Vermont’s most rewarding 4,000-foot peaks because it delivers an open, alpine-feeling summit with relatively manageable mileage. Starting from Lincoln Gap, the Long Trail climbs north through forest before reaching a rocky summit with broad views across the Champlain Valley, the Adirondacks, and the Green Mountains.

Because Lincoln Gap starts at a relatively high elevation, the total climb is shorter than many major New England summit hikes. That makes Mount Abraham a great option for strong intermediate hikers who want a serious Vermont summit without committing to a very long day. The upper section is rocky and exposed, and the summit feels much more open than the wooded approach suggests.

Mount Abraham is especially strong during clear summer and fall days, when the views stretch far across western Vermont. It is also one of the Vermont high peaks where alpine vegetation protection matters. Stay on the marked trail and exposed rock near the summit to help protect the fragile plants that survive in this harsh mountaintop environment.

5. Mount Ellen

Length: About 5.8 to 6.8 miles round trip, depending on route
Elevation Gain: About 2,000 feet
Summit Elevation: 4,083 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Best Season: June through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Route 17 / Appalachian Gap area or Sugarbush access, depending on route

Mount Ellen is one of Vermont’s five 4,000-foot mountains and a great choice for hikers who want a quieter high-elevation Green Mountain experience. The true summit is wooded, but the surrounding ridge and nearby ski-area openings provide excellent views. It is often less famous than Mansfield or Camel’s Hump, but it belongs on any serious list of the best hikes in Vermont.

Many hikers approach Mount Ellen as part of a longer Long Trail traverse, sometimes combining it with Mount Abraham along the Monroe Skyline. That longer ridge walk is one of the more ambitious hiking experiences in Vermont, with extended time above 3,000 feet and a strong sense of traveling along the spine of the Green Mountains. For hikers who prefer a shorter day, Mount Ellen can also be treated as a standalone 4,000-footer objective.

The appeal of Mount Ellen is its quieter, less commercial feel and its connection to Vermont’s long-distance hiking culture. It is a good hike for people working on Vermont’s 4,000-foot peaks, the New England 67, or simply looking for a rugged Green Mountain summit that does not draw the same crowds as Mansfield and Camel’s Hump.

6. Mount Pisgah

Length: About 4.1 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Season: May through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Route 5A trailhead, Westmore, VT

Mount Pisgah is one of the most dramatic hikes in Vermont because it rises sharply above Lake Willoughby in the Northeast Kingdom. The mountain’s cliffs and overlooks create a landscape that feels different from the rounded Green Mountain summits farther west. Instead of a classic ridgeline summit, the reward here is a series of cliffside views over deep blue water and surrounding forested hills.

The route is moderate but steady, with enough climbing to feel like a real hike without becoming an all-day mountain objective. Several viewpoints along the way look down toward Lake Willoughby and across to Mount Hor. Pulpit Rock is one of the best-known overlooks and one of the most photographed hiking viewpoints in northern Vermont.

Mount Pisgah is one of the best hikes in Vermont for photographers, fall foliage travelers, and anyone exploring the Northeast Kingdom. In autumn, the lake-and-cliff scenery becomes especially beautiful, with color filling the slopes around the water. This hike is a must-do for visitors who want Vermont scenery beyond the more familiar Stowe, Killington, and Manchester areas.

7. Sterling Pond Trail

Length: About 2.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 900 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Season: June through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Smugglers’ Notch / Route 108 area

Sterling Pond Trail is one of the best short hikes in northern Vermont because it reaches a high-elevation pond in Smugglers’ Notch with a relatively short approach. The trail is not long, but it is steeper than many people expect, climbing quickly from the notch through rocky forest terrain.

The pond itself is the reward. Tucked between surrounding ridges and ski-area terrain, Sterling Pond feels calm and scenic after the climb. It is a great destination for hikers staying near Stowe, Jeffersonville, or Smugglers’ Notch who want a memorable hike without taking on Mount Mansfield.

This hike is especially useful for travelers who want a shorter route with real mountain character. It can be done as a standalone hike or extended toward Spruce Peak for a more complete outing. Because Route 108 through Smugglers’ Notch is narrow and seasonal, check access conditions before planning an early spring or late fall visit.

8. Stowe Pinnacle

Length: About 3.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Best Season: May through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Stowe Pinnacle trailhead, Stowe, VT

Stowe Pinnacle is one of the best hikes near Stowe because it delivers a major view without requiring a full high-peak day. The trail climbs steadily through forest and becomes steeper as it approaches the open summit area. For its mileage, this hike feels surprisingly challenging, but the payoff is excellent.

From the top, hikers get views toward Mount Mansfield, the Worcester Range, and the surrounding Stowe valley. The summit area has enough open rock and exposure to feel like a true scenic viewpoint, making it a favorite for visitors who want a rewarding half-day hike close to town.

Stowe Pinnacle works well for hikers who want something harder than a casual walk but shorter than Mansfield or Camel’s Hump. It is also a strong fall foliage hike because the viewpoint looks across a broad sweep of forested Vermont hills. Start early on peak weekends, since Stowe-area trails can become busy during summer and autumn.

9. Spruce Peak via Sterling Pond

Length: About 4.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,300 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Season: June through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Smugglers’ Notch / Route 108 area

Spruce Peak via Sterling Pond is a strong choice for hikers who want to turn the Sterling Pond hike into a more complete mountain outing. After the initial climb to the pond, hikers can continue toward Spruce Peak for additional elevation, forest walking, and scenic payoff.

This route is a good example of why Smugglers’ Notch is one of Vermont’s best hiking areas. The terrain feels steep, rocky, and mountainous, yet the distances remain manageable compared with the state’s longer summit hikes. The combination of a mountain pond, Green Mountain forest, and elevated views makes the hike feel varied from start to finish.

Spruce Peak is especially appealing for hikers who want something more substantial than a quick pond visit but less committing than Mount Mansfield. It is a good fit for visitors staying in Stowe or Jeffersonville who want a scenic route with strong Vermont mountain character.

10. Deer Leap Overlook

Length: About 2.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 500 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: May through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Route 4 / Sherburne Pass area, Killington, VT

Deer Leap Overlook is one of the best short scenic hikes in Vermont. Located near Killington and Sherburne Pass, the trail leads to a rocky viewpoint overlooking the surrounding mountains and Route 4 corridor. It is short, accessible, and rewarding, which makes it a great stop for travelers who want a scenic hike without a major time commitment.

The hike uses a section of the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail area, which adds a bit of classic trail character to the route. Although the mileage is low, the climb still includes roots, rocks, and typical Vermont footing, so it feels more like a real trail than a roadside overlook.

Deer Leap is a great option to pair with Killington-area attractions, especially if you want a lighter hike before or after a bigger summit day. It is also one of the better Vermont hikes for visitors who want a strong view but are not ready for the elevation gain of Killington Peak.

11. Lye Brook Falls Trail

Length: About 4.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 900 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Season: April through November
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Glen Road trailhead, Manchester, VT

Lye Brook Falls Trail is one of the best waterfall hikes in Vermont and one of the most rewarding hikes near Manchester. The trail leads into the Lye Brook Wilderness, where water drops over a long, forested rock ledge. The falls are especially impressive in spring and after recent rain, when the flow is strongest.

The route follows a gradual old railroad-bed style path for much of the way, which makes the hike more approachable than many summit climbs in southern Vermont. It still has enough distance and elevation gain to feel like a real hike, but the grade is usually manageable for hikers with moderate trail experience.

This is a strong choice for people who want a Vermont hike focused on forest and water rather than a summit. The wilderness setting gives the falls a quieter, less developed feel than many roadside waterfall stops. If you are staying in Manchester, Dorset, or southern Vermont, Lye Brook Falls is one of the best day-hike options in the area.

12. Bromley Mountain via Long Trail

Length: About 5.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,800 feet
Summit Elevation: 3,260 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Best Season: May through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Route 11/30 trailhead, Peru, VT

Bromley Mountain is a classic southern Vermont summit hike and one of the best mountains in the Manchester-Peru area. The Long Trail climbs steadily from Route 11/30 through forest toward the summit. The route has a consistent uphill feel, but the footing is generally less technical than the rockier high peaks farther north.

The summit area is open because of the ski mountain, and the observation tower creates a much broader view than many similarly sized southern Vermont peaks. From the top, hikers can look across the Green Mountains and surrounding valleys, making the effort feel worthwhile.

This is a great Vermont hike for visitors staying near Manchester, Peru, Londonderry, or the Bromley area. It is challenging enough to feel like a real summit day but not as demanding as Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, or Killington. For hikers exploring southern Vermont, Bromley is one of the most dependable mountain hikes with a clear scenic reward.

13. Haystack Mountain

Length: About 4.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,000 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Season: May through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Wilmington / Haystack area trailhead

Haystack Mountain is one of the best hikes in southern Vermont for hikers who want a scenic summit without heading into the higher Green Mountains. The route climbs through mixed forest before reaching open ledges with views over nearby lakes, wooded ridges, and the Wilmington area.

The hike has a classic southern Vermont feel: peaceful forest, moderate climbing, and a summit that rewards the effort without requiring an all-day commitment. It is especially appealing for visitors staying near Mount Snow, Wilmington, Dover, or southern Vermont vacation areas.

Haystack is a strong fall foliage hike because the surrounding hills and lake country create a colorful, layered view. It is also a good option for hikers who want a more relaxed summit than the state’s 4,000-footers while still getting a real sense of elevation and open scenery.

14. Mount Philo

Length: About 1.5 to 2.0 miles round trip, depending on route
Elevation Gain: About 500 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: April through November
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Mount Philo State Park; entrance fee may apply

Mount Philo is one of the best easy hikes in Vermont for views. Located in Charlotte, the small mountain rises above the Champlain Valley and offers a beautiful summit view toward Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains of New York. For a short hike, the visual reward is excellent.

The route can be done as a trail hike or, depending on the season and access, by using the park road. This flexibility makes Mount Philo especially popular with families, beginner hikers, and visitors who want a scenic outdoor stop without a rugged backcountry experience.

Mount Philo is also one of the best hikes near Burlington and Shelburne. It works well as a sunset hike, a family outing, or a quick scenic stop during a Lake Champlain trip. The park setting, picnic areas, and accessible summit make it one of the most approachable hiking destinations in Vermont.

15. Snake Mountain

Length: About 3.5 to 4.0 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 900 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Season: April through November
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Trailhead near Addison / Weybridge area

Snake Mountain is one of the best scenic hikes in western Vermont because it offers a broad view over farmland, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondacks. The trail climbs through forest and old carriage-road sections before reaching the open overlook.

This hike is especially useful during spring and shoulder seasons because it is lower in elevation than the major Green Mountain summits. When higher trails are muddy, icy, or still holding snow, lower-elevation hikes like Snake Mountain can be a better choice if conditions are dry.

The summit view has a very different feel from Vermont’s high peaks. Instead of looking across rugged alpine ridges, hikers get a wide pastoral view of fields, lake country, and distant mountains. That makes Snake Mountain one of the best Vermont hikes for people who want a scenic, moderate route with a classic western Vermont landscape.

16. Owl’s Head

Length: About 1.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 500 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: May through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Groton State Forest area; seasonal access may vary

Owl’s Head is a short hike with a strong scenic payoff in Groton State Forest. The trail climbs to a rocky viewpoint overlooking forested hills, ponds, and classic central Vermont scenery. It is not a long hike, but the summit feels rewarding because the view opens suddenly after a relatively short climb.

This is one of the best short hikes in Vermont for families, beginner hikers, and travelers exploring Groton State Forest. The surrounding area has a quieter, more wooded feel than many of the state’s better-known tourist regions, which makes Owl’s Head a nice option for hikers looking for a peaceful outdoor stop.

Owl’s Head is especially good in fall, when the forested hills around the viewpoint fill with color. It is also a smart choice for hikers who want a manageable route with a clear destination, rather than a long summit grind.

17. Thundering Brook Falls

Length: About 0.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Best Season: April through October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: River Road area near Killington, VT

Thundering Brook Falls is one of the easiest waterfall hikes in Vermont and a great quick stop near Killington. A short boardwalk and trail lead to a view of the falls, making it accessible for many visitors who want scenery without a long hike.

The waterfall is part of the larger Killington-area trail network, and the Appalachian Trail passes nearby, giving this short hike a connection to one of the most famous long-distance trails in the country. Despite the easy access, the falls are still scenic enough to feel worth the stop.

This is a great hike for families, road-trippers, and anyone pairing a short waterfall walk with a bigger Killington-area adventure. It also works well as a low-effort scenic stop after hiking Killington Peak, Deer Leap, or other nearby trails.

18. Quechee Gorge Trail

Length: About 1.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 200 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Best Season: Year-round
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Parking: Quechee Gorge State Park / Route 4 area

Quechee Gorge Trail is one of the best easy hikes in Vermont and one of the most famous scenic stops in the state. The gorge drops about 165 feet to the Ottauquechee River, creating a dramatic landscape that is easy to access from Route 4.

The Route 4 bridge provides the iconic overlook, while the trail gives visitors a chance to explore more of the gorge area on foot. This is not a mountain hike like Mansfield or Camel’s Hump, but it absolutely belongs on a Vermont best hikes list because it is accessible, memorable, and visually unique.

Quechee Gorge is a great choice for families, casual hikers, and travelers visiting Woodstock, Quechee, Hartford, or the Upper Valley. It is also one of the best Vermont hikes for people who want a scenic experience without a difficult climb.

19. Robert Frost Interpretive Trail

Length: About 1.2 miles loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Best Season: May through October
Dogs: Check current local rules before visiting
Parking: Route 125 area near Ripton, VT

The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail is one of the best easy walks in Vermont for hikers who want nature, quiet scenery, and a more reflective outdoor experience. The route passes through woods, wetlands, and meadow-like areas, with interpretive elements connected to Robert Frost’s poetry.

This is not a strenuous hike, but that is part of its appeal. It is a peaceful route for families, casual walkers, literary travelers, and anyone looking for a gentler Vermont trail that does not require major elevation gain.

The trail pairs well with a visit to Middlebury, Ripton, or nearby Green Mountain National Forest destinations. It is a good reminder that the best hikes in Vermont are not only about summits — some of the most memorable trails are quiet, accessible, and deeply connected to the character of the landscape.

20. Moss Glen Falls

Length: About 0.2 to 1.0 mile, depending on how much you explore
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Best Season: Spring through fall
Dogs: Allowed on leash where permitted
Parking: Roadside parking near Granville, VT

Moss Glen Falls is one of Vermont’s most photogenic waterfall stops. The main view is easy to reach, making it a great option for visitors who want a beautiful waterfall without a long approach. The falls drop through a rocky, forested setting that feels classic Vermont.

This is a worthwhile addition to a Vermont hiking itinerary because it offers a quick scenic reward and pairs well with a drive through the Green Mountains. It is especially good in spring or after recent rain, when the water flow is stronger.

Moss Glen Falls is best treated as a scenic stop or short nature walk rather than a full hike. Still, it earns a place on this list because it captures one of Vermont’s most appealing outdoor features: easy access to beautiful water, forest, and mountain-road scenery.

What to Know Before You Go

Mud Season

Mid-March through late May is Vermont mud season, when many higher-elevation trails are closed or strongly discouraged to protect trails from erosion. Check current trail guidance before visiting higher-elevation routes, especially Mount Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, Killington, Mount Ellen, and Mount Abraham.

Alpine Zone Etiquette

Stay on marked rock paths on Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, and Mount Abraham to protect rare alpine vegetation. These fragile plants are one of the defining features of Vermont’s highest summits, and stepping off trail can cause long-term damage.

Parking

Popular lots fill early on weekends in summer and peak fall foliage season, especially at Camel’s Hump, Mansfield, Killington, and Stowe-area trailheads. Arriving early is the easiest way to avoid parking problems.

Weather and Gear

Vermont mountain weather can change fast. Even when trailheads feel warm, summits can be windy and significantly colder. Carry layers, extra water, snacks, and footwear with good traction, especially for rocky summit trails.

Best Time to Hike in Vermont

The best time to hike in Vermont is usually late May through late October. June through September offers the most reliable trail conditions for summits and ridgelines. Late September through early October is best for fall foliage, especially in higher-elevation and northern parts of the state. Spring can be muddy, and winter hiking is possible on many peaks but requires traction, winter layers, and more planning.

Summer

Summer is best for alpine summits, longer daylight, warmer temperatures, and dependable access to trails like Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, Killington, Abraham, and Ellen.

Fall

Fall is best for crisp air, colorful forests, and clear summit views. Vermont is one of the best states in New England for autumn hiking.

Winter

Winter hiking is possible on many Vermont trails, but conditions are more serious. Snow, ice, wind, short daylight, and cold temperatures require proper winter hiking gear and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking in Vermont

What is the best hike in Vermont?

Mount Mansfield is the best overall hike in Vermont for many hikers because it combines the state’s highest summit, alpine ridgeline hiking, and huge views. Camel’s Hump is a close second and is often the favorite of hikers who prefer a more undeveloped summit experience.

What are the best easy hikes in Vermont?

Quechee Gorge Trail, Mount Philo, Thundering Brook Falls, Moss Glen Falls, and the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail are some of the best easy hikes and scenic walks in Vermont.

How many 4,000-foot mountains are in Vermont?

Vermont has five 4,000-foot mountains: Mount Mansfield, Killington Peak, Camel’s Hump, Mount Ellen, and Mount Abraham.

When is the best time to hike in Vermont?

Late May through late October is usually the best hiking season in Vermont. June through September is best for reliable summit conditions, while late September and early October are best for fall foliage.

Are dogs allowed on Vermont hiking trails?

Dogs are allowed on many Vermont hiking trails, but they should be leashed and prepared for steep, rocky, or exposed terrain. Some hikes, especially Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, Abraham, and rocky summit routes, may be difficult for inexperienced trail dogs.

What is the Long Trail?

The Long Trail is Vermont’s famous long-distance hiking trail running the length of the state. Several of the best Vermont hikes use sections of it, including Mount Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, Killington Peak, Mount Abraham, Mount Ellen, and Bromley Mountain.

Final Thoughts on the Best Hikes in Vermont

The best hikes in Vermont show off everything that makes the state special: alpine ridgelines, undeveloped summits, lake cliffs, major waterfalls, observation towers, and easy scenic walks. From the classic high peaks of Mount Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, Killington, Mount Ellen, and Mount Abraham to the dramatic lake views at Mount Pisgah and the easy beauty of Quechee Gorge, Vermont offers an excellent mix of hiking experiences.

Whether you are planning a weekend in Stowe, the Northeast Kingdom, Manchester, Woodstock, Burlington, or the Green Mountains more broadly, this guide gives you a strong starting point for finding the best hikes in Vermont.