Berkshire Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Berkshire, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
Known for its challenging yet rewarding trails, Underhill State Park allows visitors to ascend Mount Mansfield via routes like Maple Ridge or Sunset Ridge Trails. At the summit ridge, hikers are greeted with expansive views and unique alpine vegetation rarely found in New England. The park also showcases historic CCC-era structures that add charm to this outdoor destination.
2. Camel's Hump State Park
MONROE TRAIL | DUXBURY VT
Known for its distinctive double-humped profile, Camel's Hump is one of Vermont's most popular hiking destinations. Trails like the Burrows Trail and Monroe Trail lead adventurers to the summit, offering breathtaking vistas and serene natural surroundings. The park also features accessible trails and opportunities for wildlife observation in its expansive forested areas.
3. Lye Brook Falls
LYE BROOK FALLS TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
Lye Brook Falls is a must-see destination in Manchester, Vermont, featuring one of the state's highest waterfalls at 125 feet. The 4.6-mile hike takes visitors through shaded forests and past remnants of historic logging sites before arriving at the breathtaking falls. Perfect for families and seasoned hikers alike, this trail combines history, nature, and adventure.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
Within CC Putnam State Forest lies the beloved Stowe Pinnacle Trail, known for its steep climb and expansive views at the top. Hikers are treated to glimpses of Mount Mansfield and Camel's Hump as they ascend through diverse terrain types. This trail remains a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Vermont's Green Mountains.
5. Killington Peak
BUCKLIN TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Killington Peak stands as a premier hiking destination in Vermont's Green Mountains. Trails such as Sherburne Pass and Bucklin Trail provide access to its summit, where hikers are greeted by unparalleled vistas. The climb combines natural serenity with exhilarating challenges.
6. Green Mountain National Forest
ICONIC TRAILS | MIDDLEBURY VT
From the iconic Appalachian Trail segment to quiet paths like Robert Frost Interpretive Trail, Green Mountain National Forest offers diverse hiking experiences in Vermont's lush terrain. Seasonal activities such as fall foliage hikes or winter snowshoeing add unique charm to its trails. This forest promises unforgettable adventures for all visitors.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park offers hikers a network of well-marked trails winding through hardwood forests and rocky outcrops, with beautiful stone staircases leading to the summit. The main Summit Trail, just under half a mile, rewards visitors with sweeping views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains from the top. Mt. Philo State Park is a favorite for both casual walkers and avid hikers, with options to combine trails for varied hiking experiences.
8. Warren Falls
WARREN FALLS TRAIL | WARREN VT
Known for its pristine waters and dramatic scenery, Warren Falls is a must-visit destination along Route 100. The falls provide opportunities for cliff jumping, wading in shallow pools, or enjoying a picnic by the riverbank. Its accessibility and charm make it one of Vermont's most beloved natural attractions.
9. Quechee State Park
QUECHEE GORGE TRAIL | HARTFORD VT
Hiking at Quechee State Park offers breathtaking views of Vermont's deepest gorge, carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. Trails like the Gorge Trail provide access to riverbanks and peaceful areas near Deweys Pond for relaxation or exploration. This park is an excellent choice for families and casual hikers alike.
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 showcases the beauty of the Green Mountains with a well-marked path to a dramatic waterfall. The accessible boardwalk makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the sights and sounds of cascading water. Thundering Brook Falls Trail is a favorite for locals and visitors seeking a peaceful, scenic walk.
12. Red Rocks Park
LOOP TRAIL | SOUTH BURLINGTON VT
Red Rocks Park's trails loop through old-growth trees and lead to rocky shorelines with breathtaking views of the water. Hikers at Red Rocks Park often encounter quiet coves, birdlife, and the occasional glimpse of peregrine falcons nesting on the cliffs. Red Rocks Park is accessible year-round, with portable restrooms available seasonally.
13. Emerald Lake State Park
LOOP TRAIL | EAST DORSET VT
Emerald Lake State Park's Emerald Lake Loop Trail is a favorite among locals for its peaceful ambiance and diverse habitats. The trail winds past wetlands, through mature hemlock groves, and along the lake's edge, offering a variety of natural sights. Emerald Lake State Park is an excellent choice for birdwatchers and those seeking a quiet retreat in southern Vermont.
14. Mt Ascutney State Park
WINDSOR TRAIL | WINDSOR VT
Mt Ascutney State Park offers the Windsor Trail, a steep and scenic route leading to the mountain's summit and observation tower. Hikers are treated to forested landscapes, a charming waterfall, and dramatic rock outcrops along the way. Mt Ascutney State Park stands out as a premier hiking location in Vermont.
15. Branbury State Park
RATTLESNAKE CLIFF TRAIL | SALISBURY VT
Branbury State Park offers direct access to the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail, a favorite for those seeking a strenuous hike and rewarding views. Branbury State Park's trail traverses diverse terrain, from shaded woods to exposed cliffs. Branbury State Park is an excellent choice for hikers wanting to experience the best of Vermont's wilderness.
16. Bingham Falls
BINGHAM FALLS TRAIL | STOWE VT
Bingham Falls provides access to the Bingham Falls Trail, a short but steep hike descending to the base of a picturesque waterfall. The trail features rock staircases and requires caution due to slippery conditions, especially near the falls. Visitors are treated to the sights and sounds of cascading water in a lush, forested setting.
17. Coolidge State Forest
SHREWSBURY PEAK TRAIL | SHREWSBURY VT
Coolidge State Forest features the Shrewsbury Peak Trail, which ascends from the CCC Road to the summit of Shrewsbury Peak. Hikers traverse Russell Hill, pass historic Civilian Conservation Corps landmarks, and climb through varied forest terrain before reaching sweeping views of the Plymsbury wetlands and Saltash Mountain. The trail continues along the ridge, offering a challenging and rewarding hike for those seeking high-elevation vistas.
18. Pinnacle Meadows
PINNACLE MEADOWS TRAIL | STOWE VT
Pinnacle Meadows features the Pinnacle Meadows Trail, which ascends through forest and open meadow to connect with the Stowe Pinnacle summit. The trail provides a less crowded approach, rewarding hikers with sweeping views of the Green Mountains and Stowe Valley. Its gentle to moderate slopes and scenic vistas make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
19. Shelburne Bay Park
SHELBURNE BAY PARK TRAILS | SHELBURNE VT
Shelburne Bay Park features a network of trails that wind through 93 acres of lakefront, meadows, and forested ledges along the shores of Lake Champlain. The Shelburne Bay Park Trails are ideal for walking or hiking, with a 1.4-mile recreation path that connects to the Ti-Haul Trail and offers access to beautiful water views. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful hike while observing local wildlife and the park's diverse natural habitats.
20. Moss Glen Falls
MOSS GLEN FALLS TRAIL | STOWE VT
Moss Glen Falls Trail is a short, mostly flat hike leading to one of Vermont's most beautiful waterfalls, cascading 125 feet through a lush gorge. The trail is less than half a mile each way, with boardwalks over wet areas and a brief, steep section near the falls for an up-close view. Hikers are rewarded with the sight and sound of the dramatic waterfall, making this a must-see stop near Stowe.