Athens VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Athens, Vermont.
1. Athens Dome Trail
FOREST AND WETLAND ADVENTURE
Athens Dome Trail is a 1.2-mile path that takes hikers through diverse landscapes including hardwood forests and special spruce wetlands ecosystems. The trail features moderate difficulty with some climbing sections and a notable dark, silent, and hummocky spruce wetland area. Hikers can enjoy the peaceful forest atmosphere while experiencing the unique ecological features of southern Vermont.
2. Wetland Trail
SCENIC BEAVER HABITAT
The Wetland Trail is a short 0.5-mile path that passes by a beautiful beaver wetland before continuing through mixed northern hardwoods. This easy to moderate trail gradually climbs to a junction with the historic Kidder Hill Road, an old minimally passable town route. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse wetland habitat and the opportunity to observe local wildlife.
3. Paul's Ledges
MOUNTAIN VIEWS AND HEMLOCKS
Paul's Ledges offers hikers a large open grassy area with spectacular westward views toward the Green Mountains, including Stratton Mountain. The trail system features magnificent hemlock trees, impressive rock outcrops, and a peaceful park-like atmosphere with a picnic table for resting. Multiple connecting trails of moderate difficulty provide various route options through this scenic area maintained by the Windmill Hill Pinnacle Association.
4. Hemlock Trail
CATWALK THROUGH ANCIENT TREES
The Hemlock Trail winds through beautiful hemlock forests with sections notched into steep hillsides creating a natural catwalk effect. This moderately challenging trail connects to various points of interest including a glacial erratic, a wildlife clearing, and eventually Paul's Ledges with its stunning views. The trail is particularly beautiful in evening light as it follows along impressive rock formations.
5. Undercliff Trail
BASE OF ROCK OUTCROPS
The Undercliff Trail follows along the base of a series of dramatic rock outcrops in the Athens area. This moderately difficult trail provides an alternate scenic route from the Hemlock Trail to the viewpoint at Paul's Ledges. Hikers will be treated to unique perspectives of the rock formations and particularly beautiful scenery when visited during evening hours.
6. Windmill Hill Ridgeline Trail
16-MILE MOUNTAIN RIDGE
The Windmill Hill Ridgeline Trail spans an impressive 16 miles across an undulating procession of small peaks in southeast Vermont. This challenging long-distance trail includes notable landmarks such as Putney Mountain and The Pinnacle. Hikers are rewarded with multiple viewpoints and the opportunity to experience a significant ridgeline ecosystem.
7. Sunset Ridge Trail
MOUNT MANSFIELD ADVENTURE
Sunset Ridge Trail in Underhill State Park provides access to Mount Mansfield's rugged beauty through Vermont's Green Mountains. The moderately difficult to challenging trail features rare alpine tundra vegetation at higher elevations as hikers approach the summit. Connecting with Vermont's Long Trail, it offers extended adventure possibilities and spectacular views across the ridge line.
8. Monroe Trail
CAMEL'S HUMP CHALLENGE
The Monroe Trail in Camel's Hump State Park offers a challenging route to one of Vermont's most iconic peaks. Hikers face a moderately strenuous climb that rewards them with panoramic summit views stretching across multiple states. The well-maintained trail showcases Vermont's diverse wilderness and connects with other paths for varied hiking experiences.
9. Forest City Loop
SCENIC CAMEL'S HUMP CIRCUIT
The Forest City Loop provides hikers with a unique perspective of Vermont's wilderness within Camel's Hump State Park. This moderate difficulty circuit trail winds through diverse forest ecosystems and offers beautiful scenery without the summit climb. Accessible to various skill levels, it's an excellent option for experiencing the natural beauty of the Green Mountains.
10. Lye Brook Falls Trail
HISTORIC WATERFALL JOURNEY
Lye Brook Falls Trail leads hikers on a 4.6-mile journey to one of Vermont's highest waterfalls, measuring an impressive 125 feet. The moderately challenging trail takes visitors through shaded forests and past remnants of historic logging sites before revealing the breathtaking cascade. Perfect for families and experienced hikers alike, this trail combines natural beauty, history, and adventure in the Manchester area.