Hell Brook Trailhead The Hell Brook Trail is one of Stowe’s most challenging hikes on Vermont’s tallest peak, and is recommended only for expert hikers who are comfortable climbing steep, wet, rock faces with high consequences. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 53 min to complete. This out-and-back trail is 4.2 miles round trip with 2,600 feet of elevation gain, leading tothe 4,394-foot Chin (summit) of Mount Mansfield. The trail ascends up a brook and is almost always extremely wet and slick, and due to the steep grade should only be used for ascent, not descent. Key highlights include small waterfalls, large slabs of rock and exposed tree roots, and rocky portions with metal bars to assist in climbing.