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Vermont
Vermont is built for hikers who want mountain character, dense forests, and reliable summit rewards in a compact state. The Green Mountains form the spine of Vermont and host many of its signature routes, from short fire-tower climbs to rugged Long Trail traverses. In the northeast and southern ranges, hikers also find cliff overlooks, waterfall trails, remote ponds, and quieter backcountry routes with lower crowd levels.
Best Seasons to Hike
- Spring: Mud season can be challenging at lower elevations, but waterfall volume is strong.
- Summer: Prime hiking season for summit routes, pond loops, and longer ridge trails.
- Fall: Peak foliage season with excellent visibility and cooler, stable hiking weather.
- Winter: Great for prepared hikers using traction and winter gear on packed routes.
Trail Character
Vermont trails often include roots, rocks, and sustained climbing, especially on mountain routes. Many hikes are short-to-moderate in mileage but can feel strenuous due to grade and footing.
Access, Permits, and Fees
Most Vermont trailheads are free, but some state parks and managed recreation areas may have seasonal fees or parking limits. Popular trailheads can fill early on fall weekends.
Safety and Conditions Guidance
Expect quick weather changes in higher elevations. Bring layers, water, and offline maps. During wet periods, trails can become slick and muddy, especially on steeper grades and shaded forest sections.
Regional Highlights
- Northern Green Mountains (Stowe, Smugglers Notch, Mansfield area)
- Central Vermont summits and state parks
- Northeast Kingdom cliff and lake overlooks
- Southern Vermont ridges, waterfalls, and fire-tower hikes
Trail Locations in Vermont
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Trails in Vermont
Showing 24 of 105 trails
Abbey Pond Trail
rutland County
Remote pond hike through dense forest with moderate-to-steep sections.
Appalachian Gap Long Trail
addison County
High-elevation Long Trail section with open ridgeline exposure.
Ascutney Futures Trail
windsor County
Popular Ascutney route with machine-built grade and scenic forest climbing.
Bald Hill Trail Marlboro
windham County
Moderate southern Vermont summit route with open ledges.
Bald Mountain Trail Westmore
orleans County
Moderate climb to ledges above the Willoughby region.
Belvidere Mountain Fire Tower Trail
lamoille County
Classic fire-tower climb with broad views from Belvidere summit.
Bingham Falls Trail Vermont
lamoille County
Easy waterfall walk to a deep gorge and swimming hole area.
Bird Mountain Trail Vermont
windsor County
Moderate climb to local viewpoints and forested ridges.
Bourne Pond Trail Vermont
bennington County
Forest trail to remote pond settings in southern Vermont.
Brattleboro Retreat Trail
windham County
Wooded hill trails with moderate grades above Brattleboro.
Brownsville Trail Mount Ascutney
windsor County
Popular approach to Ascutney summit with sustained elevation gain.
Bucklin Trail Killington
rutland County
Longer summit approach with sustained climbing and classic mountain terrain.
Burlington Greenway Trail
chittenden County
Waterfront multi-use route along Burlington's Lake Champlain shore.
Buttermilk Falls Trail Ludlow
windsor County
Short waterfall hike to cascades and natural pools near Okemo.
Camel's Hump Burrows Trail
chittenden County
Direct climb to Camel's Hump with open summit views.
Camel's Hump Monroe Trail
washington County
Longer approach to Camel's Hump through hardwood forest and ridgeline terrain.
Canty Trail Killington
rutland County
Steep Killington-area ascent with rugged footing and elevation gain.
Catamount Trail Section Waterbury
washington County
Backcountry ski-trail corridor that also serves as a hiking route.
Clarendon Gorge Trail
rutland County
Scenic gorge-side trail section along dramatic river formations.
Colchester Causeway Trail
chittenden County
Lake causeway route with expansive water views and open skies.
Deer Leap Overlook Trail
rutland County
Short climb to dramatic cliffs overlooking the Killington area.
Devils Gulch Trail Vermont
lamoille County
Rocky notch route through boulder corridors and dramatic terrain.
Falls of Lana Trail
addison County
Forest climb to overlooks above Lake Dunmore and nearby falls.
Forehead Trail Stowe
lamoille County
Scenic notch-area climb with dramatic views and rocky terrain.