Charlotte Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Charlotte, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
Located within Mount Mansfield State Forest, Underhill State Park offers access to some of Vermont's most iconic hiking routes. The park's trails, including the challenging Maple Ridge Trail, reward adventurers with sweeping summit views and diverse terrain. Its alpine ecosystem and historic CCC structures create a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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
The Stowe Pinnacle Trail in CC Putnam State Forest is renowned for its breathtaking summit views and well-maintained paths. Hikers can explore diverse terrains, from shaded forests to exposed rock ledges, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. This trail is a must-visit for those seeking adventure and natural beauty in Vermont.
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 | MANCHESTER VT
Encompassing 400,000 acres of pristine wilderness, Green Mountain National Forest is a haven for hikers of all skill levels. Trails like the Sunset Ridge Trail and Blueberry Lake Loop provide breathtaking views and peaceful settings. Visitors can explore lush forests, alpine ridges, and historic paths such as the Appalachian Trail segment.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park invites hikers to enjoy a picnic at the summit after a brisk walk up the mountain, with picnic tables and an enclosed pavilion available. The summit area offers panoramic views and grassy lawns perfect for relaxing or sharing a meal. Mt. Philo State Park is a perfect destination for a leisurely day outdoors with family or friends, complete with seasonal amenities.
8. Warren Falls
WARREN FALLS TRAIL | WARREN VT
Warren Falls offers a serene escape with its cascading waterfalls and inviting swimming holes nestled in lush greenery. The short trail to the falls is family-friendly, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. Whether swimming or photographing the scenery, this spot is a quintessential Vermont experience.
9. Quechee State Park
QUECHEE GORGE TRAIL | HARTFORD VT
Hiking at Quechee State Park immerses visitors in the beauty of the 165-foot-deep Quechee Gorge, often called Vermont's Grand Canyon. Trails like the Quechee Gorge Trail lead to serene riverbanks and panoramic views of the surrounding forest. This destination is perfect for nature lovers looking to enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation.
10. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
POGUE LOOP TRAIL | WOODSTOCK VT
The Pogue Loop Trail provides a serene hiking experience around a picturesque mountain pond in Vermont's only national park. Surrounded by managed forests, the trail features ferns, wildflowers, and occasional wildlife sightings. Its easy-to-moderate difficulty makes it accessible for all skill levels.
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 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'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 provides a classic New England hiking experience, rising 2,500 feet from trailhead to summit. Along the way, hikers encounter forested paths, rocky outcrops, and the historic observation tower with 360-degree views. Mt Ascutney State Park is a must-visit for those seeking a challenging yet accessible summit hike.
15. Branbury State Park
RATTLESNAKE CLIFF TRAIL | SALISBURY VT
Branbury State Park is the starting point for the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail, known for its steep climb and breathtaking overlooks. Branbury State Park's trail is a great way to experience the region's forests, cliffs, and lakes in one hike. Branbury State Park is a top pick for visitors who love challenging trails and scenic rewards.
16. Niquette Bay State Park
ALLEN TRAIL | COLCHESTER VT
Niquette Bay State Park's Allen Trail offers a short, accessible route to the shores of Lake Champlain, passing through forested ridges and sandy terraces. The trail provides impressive vistas of Malletts Bay, the Green Mountains, and the Lake Champlain Islands. Hikers can enjoy a peaceful day hike with opportunities for nature observation and lakeside relaxation.
17. Centennial Woods Natural Area
CENTENNIAL WOODS LOOP TRAIL | BURLINGTON VT
Centennial Woods Natural Area offers the Centennial Woods Loop Trail, winding through 65 acres of mature conifers, hardwoods, fields, and wetlands. The trail system provides a natural retreat within Burlington, serving as both a recreational path and an outdoor classroom for local students. Hikers can explore diverse habitats and enjoy a peaceful escape just minutes from the city center.
18. Mill Trail
MILL TRAIL | STOWE VT
The Mill Trail in Stowe offers a gentle hike through mixed hardwood and softwood forests along the West Branch of the Waterbury River. Hikers pass historic sites, including cellar holes and a restored log cabin, while enjoying river views and abundant wildlife. The trail is ideal for a peaceful walk, nature observation, and learning about Stowe's past.
19. Mount Haystack
MOUNT HAYSTACK TRAIL | WILMINGTON VT
Mount Haystack Trail in Wilmington is a moderately challenging hike that ascends about 1000 feet to the 3445-foot summit of Haystack Mountain. The trail winds through high-elevation forests and offers sweeping 180-degree views over the Deerfield Valley, with sights of Mount Snow, Haystack Pond, and even Mount Monadnock on clear days. Hikers will experience a mix of gradual and steep sections, culminating in rewarding vistas at the summit.
20. Grout Pond Recreation Area
GROUT POND LOOP TRAIL | STRATTON VT
Grout Pond Recreation Area features the Grout Pond Loop Trail, a relatively flat and easy-to-moderate path that circles the scenic 80-acre pond through low-lying woodlands. The trail system offers over 10 miles of interconnected routes, with blue diamond blazes guiding hikers through wetlands, forests, and lakeshore vistas. This area is popular for year-round hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, though trails can be wet and muddy at times.