Bloomfield Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bloomfield, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
Tucked into Vermont's Green Mountains, Underhill State Park provides unparalleled access to Mount Mansfield's rugged beauty through its network of hiking trails like Laura Cowles and Sunset Ridge Trails. The park features rare tundra vegetation at higher elevations and connects with Vermont's Long Trail for extended adventures across the ridge line. Its peaceful campsites make it an ideal base for exploring this iconic peak.
2. Camel's Hump State Park
MONROE TRAIL | DUXBURY VT
Camel's Hump State Park boasts over 21,000 acres of outdoor recreation, including hiking trails that range from easy strolls to rugged climbs. The summit trails provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and are perfect for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy peaceful walks along streams and through birch forests on less-traveled paths.
3. Lye Brook Falls
LYE BROOK FALLS TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
Hikers visiting Lye Brook Falls in Manchester are treated to a scenic journey through Vermont's wilderness to one of its tallest waterfalls. The moderately challenging trail includes rocky terrain and gentle climbs that culminate in stunning views of the cascading falls. This peaceful hike is perfect for escaping into nature while enjoying picturesque landscapes.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
Nestled within CC Putnam State Forest, the Stowe Pinnacle Trail is a steep but manageable hike offering panoramic views of Vermont's iconic peaks. The trail features a mix of forested paths and open rock summits, making it a favorite for nature enthusiasts. Its proximity to additional trail systems enhances its appeal for day hikers and backpackers alike.
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 | WOODFORD VT
Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest features iconic trails such as Harmon Hill and Haystack Mountain, perfect for day hikes or extended adventures. The forest's varied terrain includes rocky summits, fern-filled meadows, and cascading streams. Fall foliage and winter snowshoeing add seasonal charm to this outdoor destination.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park, Vermont's first state park, offers a short, steady climb suitable for all ages, with the main trail beginning right at the parking lot. The well-maintained trails and summit road allow for both hiking and driving options to reach the 968-foot peak. Mt. Philo State Park is ideal for a quick outdoor escape, with rewarding scenery and amenities like picnic benches and a seasonal pavilion at the summit.
8. Warren Falls
WARREN FALLS TRAIL | WARREN VT
A jewel of Vermont's Mad River Valley, Warren Falls features cascading waterfalls that flow into deep, inviting pools perfect for swimming or wading. The site's rugged cliffs provide thrilling opportunities for safe cliff jumping under careful conditions. Its natural beauty continues to enchant visitors year after year.
9. Quechee State Park
QUECHEE GORGE TRAIL | HARTFORD VT
Quechee State Park features hiking trails that wind through lush woodlands and offer stunning vistas of the Ottauquechee River below. The trails vary in length and difficulty, making them accessible for hikers of all skill levels. A visit here promises breathtaking scenery and a memorable outdoor experience.
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 is renowned for its universal accessibility, featuring a wide boardwalk and gentle switchbacks to a waterfall overlook. The trail is part of a collaborative conservation effort and is maintained for all to enjoy. Thundering Brook Falls Trail is a rare find for those seeking an inclusive outdoor experience in Vermont.
12. Red Rocks Park
LOOP TRAIL | SOUTH BURLINGTON VT
Red Rocks Park is known for its shaded walking trails that meander through dense forests and open onto stunning lake vistas. Hikers at Red Rocks Park can explore a variety of routes, from short strolls to longer loops, all with opportunities to spot wildlife. Red Rocks Park also offers picnic areas and seasonal swimming for a full day outdoors.
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 offers the Windsor Trail, a challenging yet rewarding hike that ascends through diverse terrain to the summit. Hikers enjoy stops at Gerry Falls and Castle Rock, with the final reward being panoramic views from the observation tower. Mt Ascutney State Park is perfect for those seeking a classic Vermont mountain hike.
15. Branbury State Park
RATTLESNAKE CLIFF TRAIL | SALISBURY VT
Branbury State Park welcomes visitors to explore the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail, a route famous for its rugged terrain and spectacular summit views. Branbury State Park's trail is best suited for experienced hikers, offering a steady climb and glimpses of rare plant life along the cliffs. Branbury State Park is a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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. 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. Smugglers Notch State Park
LONG TRAIL SMUGGLERS NOTCH SECTION | STOWE VT
Smugglers Notch State Park Campground provides direct access to the Long Trail's dramatic Smugglers Notch section, renowned for its steep cliffs and rich history. Hikers can explore the iconic pass, once used by smugglers and now a hub for outdoor adventure, with trails winding through dense forests and past striking rock formations. The area is ideal for both day hikes and extended treks along Vermont's legendary Long Trail.
19. Wiessner Woods
WIESSNER WOODS TRAILS | STOWE VT
Wiessner Woods in Stowe features a network of trails that meander through mature hardwood and softwood forests, with small streams and a meadow near the entrance. The Wiessner Woods Trails are open year-round for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, providing a serene escape into nature. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks while observing local flora and fauna in this conserved woodland.
20. Mount Hunger
MOUNT HUNGER TRAIL | WATERBURY VT
Mount Hunger is a popular destination for hikers seeking a moderately challenging climb via the Mount Hunger Trail, which ascends through C.C. Putnam State Forest to a rocky, bald summit. The trail features steady elevation gain, some scrambling near the top, and panoramic views of the Green Mountains, Adirondacks, and even the White Mountains on clear days. The summit rewards hikers with one of Vermont's most spectacular vistas, making the effort well worthwhile.