Cambridge Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cambridge, 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 striking natural landmark reached by a 4.6-mile out-and-back trail in Manchester, Vermont. The path winds through shaded forests teeming with wildlife and crosses small streams before revealing the majestic waterfall at its end. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil setting while soaking in the beauty of this towering cascade.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
CC Putnam State Forest offers hikers access to the scenic Stowe Pinnacle Trail, a challenging yet rewarding route. The trail ascends through mixed hardwood forests, offering spectacular views of Mount Mansfield and Camel's Hump from its rocky summit. Visitors can also connect to other trails for extended adventures in the Green Mountains.
5. Killington Peak
BUCKLIN TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Hiking to Killington Peak provides an unforgettable experience with its mix of serene trails and dramatic ascents. The summit offers a perfect reward for the effort-a sweeping view across Vermont and beyond. Whether via Bucklin Trail or Sherburne Pass, this hike is a highlight of the Green Mountains.
6. Green Mountain National Forest
ICONIC TRAILS | BENNINGTON VT
The Green Mountain National Forest offers hikers access to Vermont's oldest long-distance trail, the Long Trail, along with shorter scenic routes like Deer Leap and Harmon Hill. Its rugged terrain includes alpine ridges, hardwood forests, and tranquil ponds perfect for exploration. This protected area is ideal for both day hikes and multi-day treks.
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
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 trails at Quechee State Park offer a blend of easy-to-moderate routes that showcase the stunning Quechee Gorge and its surrounding landscapes. Visitors can explore paths leading to Deweys Pond or descend into the gorge for closer views of the Ottauquechee River. This park is a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty in Vermont.
10. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
POGUE LOOP TRAIL | WOODSTOCK VT
This easy-to-moderate loop trail circles The Pogue, offering panoramic views of Mount Tom's lush surroundings and tranquil waters. Hikers can explore diverse ecosystems while enjoying quiet moments amidst nature's splendor. It is an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation or adventure in Woodstock Vermont.
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 is celebrated for its scenic walking paths that provide both wooded seclusion and open vistas of Lake Champlain. The trails at Red Rocks Park are easy to follow and suitable for a quick stroll or a longer hike. Red Rocks Park also features a small beach and picnic facilities for visitors.
13. Emerald Lake State Park
LOOP TRAIL | EAST DORSET VT
Emerald Lake State Park's Emerald Lake Loop Trail invites hikers to explore a blend of forested ridges, lakeshore paths, and gentle meadows. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all skill levels, making it accessible for families and casual walkers. Emerald Lake State Park rewards visitors with serene lake views and a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.
14. Mt Ascutney State Park
WINDSOR TRAIL | WINDSOR VT
Mt Ascutney State Park's Windsor Trail offers a 2.7-mile ascent through lush woods, with stops at Gerry Falls and Castle Rock en route to the summit. The observation tower at the top provides expansive views of the surrounding countryside. Mt Ascutney State Park is a premier spot for hikers seeking both challenge and scenery.
15. Branbury State Park
RATTLESNAKE CLIFF TRAIL | SALISBURY VT
Branbury State Park features the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail, a route that takes hikers past waterfalls and up to rocky ledges. Branbury State Park's trail offers glimpses of Lake Dunmore and the distant Adirondacks from its highest points. Branbury State Park is a destination where adventure and natural beauty meet.
16. Ethan Allen Park
ETHAN ALLEN PARK TRAILS | BURLINGTON VT
Ethan Allen Park features a four-mile network of paved and unpaved trails traversing hilly, forested terrain within Burlington. The trails connect to regional paths and offer both hiking and biking opportunities, making it a versatile urban green space. Visitors can enjoy natural beauty, city views, and the park's historical significance.
17. Hamilton Falls
HAMILTON FALLS TRAIL | JAMAICA VT
Hamilton Falls is accessed via the Hamilton Falls Trail, a scenic route beginning in Jamaica State Park and following the West River and Switch Road Trails. The hike is approximately three miles one way, culminating at the dramatic 125-foot cascade of Hamilton Falls. Hikers should exercise caution near the falls due to steep, slippery rocks and strong currents, but the journey offers a memorable adventure through lush woodland.
18. Pine Hill Park
CARRIAGE TRAIL | RUTLAND VT
Pine Hill Park features the Carriage Trail, a 5.1-mile route that follows the historic path once connecting Rutland to Proctor. Hikers traverse moderate to difficult elevation, passing scenic ponds, wildlife habitats, and remnants of Vermont's early roadways. The trail is marked with royal blue blazes and offers rewarding views of Blue Ridge Mountain and Pico.
19. Sucker Brook Hollow Trail
SUCKER BROOK HOLLOW TRAIL | WILLISTON VT
Sucker Brook Hollow Trail in Williston leads hikers across footbridges and through a forested landscape rich with beech, white pine, and maple trees. The trail follows Sucker Brook and climbs gently to a scenic overlook on Five Tree Hill, offering glimpses into the area's natural and historical past. This moderate hike is just over a mile to the viewpoint and connects with other local trails for extended exploration.
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.