Albany Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Albany, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
Located on the west side of Mount Mansfield, Underhill State Park gives hikers access to some of Vermont's most iconic peaks via well-maintained trails like Laura Cowles and Sunset Ridge. The summit ridge offers striking views of New England landscapes and rare alpine vegetation. Its combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a must-visit spot for outdoor lovers.
2. Camel's Hump State Park
MONROE TRAIL | DUXBURY VT
This beloved park features trails ranging from universally accessible routes to challenging summit climbs that lead to Camel's Hump's iconic peak. The Burrows Trail is particularly popular for its well-maintained path and rewarding views at the top. With its diverse terrain and rich history, the park offers something for everyone to enjoy year-round.
3. Lye Brook Falls
LYE BROOK FALLS TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
Located in the Green Mountain National Forest, Lye Brook Falls is one of Vermont's tallest waterfalls, accessible via a moderately challenging trail. The hike features rocky paths, lush greenery, and occasional stream crossings that lead to the spectacular tiered cascade. This family-friendly trail offers an unforgettable nature escape for hikers of all skill levels.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
Hiking the Stowe Pinnacle Trail in CC Putnam State Forest offers an immersive experience in Vermont's rugged landscapes. The trail combines challenging inclines with serene forest sections, culminating in sweeping views from the summit. Its connection to other trails makes it a versatile choice for both short hikes and longer treks.
5. Killington Peak
BUCKLIN TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
As part of the Appalachian Trail system, Killington Peak attracts hikers with its accessibility and stunning vistas. The climb features varied terrain, including tranquil woods and steep rocky sections near the top. Reaching the summit is an achievement rewarded by awe-inspiring scenery.
6. Green Mountain National Forest
ICONIC TRAILS | LINCOLN VT
With trails ranging from easy strolls to strenuous climbs, Green Mountain National Forest is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Vermont. Highlights include Mount Mansfield's Sunset Ridge Trail and the historic Long Trail that spans the state. The forest's diverse ecosystems offer unparalleled opportunities for exploration and adventure.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park's trails pass through habitats rich with deer, moose, and seasonal wildflowers, offering a chance to experience Vermont's natural diversity. Hikers may encounter painted trillium, starflowers, and a variety of birds along the way, especially in spring and fall. Mt. Philo State Park is a nature lover's retreat just minutes from Burlington, with opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.
8. Warren Falls
WARREN FALLS TRAIL | WARREN VT
This iconic waterfall destination boasts multiple cascades plunging into emerald pools surrounded by rugged rock formations. A favorite among locals and tourists, Warren Falls is an excellent spot for swimming, cliff jumping, or simply soaking in the scenery. Its proximity to Route 100 ensures easy access for all visitors.
9. Quechee State Park
QUECHEE GORGE TRAIL | HARTFORD VT
Quechee State Park features scenic hiking trails that showcase Vermont's natural wonders, including its majestic gorge and vibrant foliage in autumn months. Trails are moderately challenging but accessible, offering stunning views of the Ottauquechee River below. Visitors can enjoy both adventure and serenity in one location.
10. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
POGUE LOOP TRAIL | WOODSTOCK VT
The Pogue Loop Trail offers hikers an easy-to-moderate route through Vermont's oldest scientifically managed forest. Circling a serene pond, the trail features breathtaking views and opportunities to observe local wildlife. Its well-maintained carriage roads ensure a comfortable hiking experience for all visitors.
11. Thundering Brook Falls Trail
THUNDERING BROOK FALLS TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Thundering Brook Falls Trail leads hikers through lush floodplain and forest to the base of a thundering, 125-foot waterfall. The trail is an out-and-back route, about one mile round trip, and is suitable for children and beginners. Thundering Brook Falls Trail is especially beautiful in spring or after heavy rain, when the falls are at their most powerful.
12. Red Rocks Park
LOOP TRAIL | SOUTH BURLINGTON VT
Red Rocks Park invites visitors to explore its well-maintained trails, which wind through woods and emerge at dramatic overlooks above Lake Champlain. The park's varied terrain at Red Rocks Park includes gentle slopes and steeper sections, suitable for all skill levels. Red Rocks Park is also a popular spot for photography and picnicking.
13. Emerald Lake State Park
LOOP TRAIL | EAST DORSET VT
Emerald Lake State Park is home to the Emerald Lake Loop Trail, a scenic route that highlights the park's diverse flora and fauna. Hikers can expect to see everything from towering hardwoods to delicate wildflowers, with the lake always nearby. Emerald Lake State Park is a wonderful place to reconnect with nature and enjoy Vermont's seasonal beauty.
14. Mt Ascutney State Park
WINDSOR TRAIL | WINDSOR VT
Mt Ascutney State Park invites adventurers to tackle the Windsor Trail, the most direct and steepest path to the summit. The trail begins in a meadow, quickly entering dense woods and offering a consistent climb with scenic stops like Gerry Falls. Mt Ascutney State Park rewards hikers with sweeping summit vistas and a sense of accomplishment.
15. Branbury State Park
RATTLESNAKE CLIFF TRAIL | SALISBURY VT
Branbury State Park is the starting point for the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail, a steep and rewarding trek through Vermont's rugged landscape. Branbury State Park features a trail that climbs steadily, leading to dramatic cliffside overlooks above the lake. Branbury State Park is ideal for hikers looking for both a physical challenge and panoramic scenery.
16. Hubbard Park
HUBBARD PARK TRAILS | MONTPELIER VT
Hubbard Park offers a network of trails winding through woods, meadows, and rocky outcrops in the heart of Montpelier. Hikers can explore varied terrain and climb the 54-foot Hubbard Tower for elevated views of the surrounding landscape. The park's trails provide a peaceful escape with both natural and historic features to discover.
17. Deer Leap Trail
DEER LEAP TRAIL | RUTLAND VT
The Deer Leap Trail in Rutland is a moderately challenging hike known for its rocky, root-filled path and rewarding overlook. Hikers ascend through birch and pine woods to reach the Deer Leap Overlook, where expansive views of the valley and surrounding mountains await. The trail is well-marked and offers a quiet, scenic escape for those seeking a short but invigorating trek.
18. CC Putnam State Forest
WORCESTER RANGE TRAILS | WORCESTER VT
CC Putnam State Forest encompasses the Worcester Range Trails, a rugged network traversing peaks like Mount Hunger and Stowe Pinnacle. Hikers experience remote wilderness, diverse forests, and sweeping summit views of the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondacks. The Skyline Trail links several summits, offering a challenging and rewarding ridge walk.
19. Milton Town Forest
MILTON TOWN FOREST TRAILS | MILTON VT
Milton Town Forest provides hikers with six miles of established trails that loop through 485 acres of woodlands and encircle the scenic 33-acre Milton Pond. The Milton Town Forest Trails offer a tranquil setting for nature walks, wildlife observation, and year-round outdoor recreation. The well-marked paths make it easy for visitors to explore the forest's diverse ecosystems at their own pace.
20. Mount Abraham
MOUNT ABRAHAM TRAIL | LINCOLN VT
Mount Abraham is reached by hiking the Mount Abraham Trail, which traverses a mix of sugarbushes, hardwood forests, and alpine terrain to Vermont's fifth highest peak. The trail is known for its moderate difficulty, rare alpine vegetation, and a summit above treeline that offers expansive views of the Green Mountains, Champlain Valley, and Adirondacks. Hikers should stay on the marked path to protect fragile plants and enjoy the unique high-elevation landscape.