Craftsbury Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Craftsbury, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
Nestled on the western slope of Mount Mansfield, Underhill State Park offers stunning hiking trails that lead to Vermont's tallest peak. The Sunset Ridge Trail, a favorite among visitors, provides a direct 3-mile route to the summit with breathtaking views along the way. The park is also home to rare alpine vegetation and historic CCC-built facilities that enhance its natural charm.
2. Camel's Hump State Park
MONROE TRAIL | DUXBURY VT
Camel's Hump State Park is home to Vermont's third-highest peak and a variety of hiking trails that showcase the state's stunning wilderness. Trails wind through dense forests, open rocky expanses, and historical sites such as the B-24 bomber memorial. Whether seeking solitude or adventure, visitors will find an unforgettable experience here.
3. Lye Brook Falls
LYE BROOK FALLS TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
The journey to Lye Brook Falls combines history and natural beauty along a moderate 4.6-mile trail in Manchester, Vermont. Hikers pass through shaded woods and remnants of old logging sites before arriving at the towering waterfall cascading down multiple tiers. This picturesque destination offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for visitors year-round.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
Located in CC Putnam State Forest, the Stowe Pinnacle Trail offers a mix of natural beauty and hiking challenges. The ascent through hardwood forests leads to a rocky summit with panoramic views of Vermont's Green Mountains. Its accessibility and scenic rewards make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Killington Peak
BUCKLIN TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Rising to 4,229 feet, Killington Peak offers a variety of hiking experiences for all skill levels. The summit can be reached via trails that traverse lush forests and rocky outcrops. Once at the top, visitors enjoy expansive views of Vermont's stunning landscapes.
6. Green Mountain National Forest
ICONIC TRAILS | LINCOLN VT
With trails ranging from easy strolls to strenuous climbs, Green Mountain National Forest is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Vermont. Highlights include Mount Mansfield's Sunset Ridge Trail and the historic Long Trail that spans the state. The forest's diverse ecosystems offer unparalleled opportunities for exploration and adventure.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park offers universally accessible trails like the Waters Between Trail, ensuring everyone can enjoy the summit's sweeping views and natural beauty. The park's gentle grades and short distances make it welcoming for visitors of all abilities, including families with young children or those with mobility needs. Mt. Philo State Park is committed to inclusive recreation, with accessible parking and easy access to the summit shelter.
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 provides visitors with stunning vistas of Vermont's deepest gorge while exploring well-marked trails through forested terrain and riverside areas near Deweys Pond. The moderate difficulty makes it suitable for families looking for an enjoyable outdoor adventure together in nature's embrace. This park offers an idyllic escape from everyday life into a world of tranquility and beauty.
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 not only features a stunning waterfall but also passes by the site of a historic mill once powered by the falls. The trail is easy and accessible, with parking available on River Road and a boardwalk leading to the viewing area. Thundering Brook Falls Trail offers a blend of natural wonder and local history.
12. Red Rocks Park
LOOP TRAIL | SOUTH BURLINGTON VT
Red Rocks Park offers a network of scenic hiking trails winding through hemlock and pine forests in South Burlington. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks from rocky bluffs along the route. Red Rocks Park is a peaceful destination for nature walks, birdwatching, and lakeside relaxation.
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 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. 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. Groton State Forest
OWLS HEAD TRAIL | GROTON VT
Groton State Forest is home to the Owls Head Trail, a moderate hike leading to a scenic summit overlooking Lake Groton, Kettle Pond, and the Green Mountains. The trail meanders through rolling terrain and features a short staircase climb built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. At the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views and a peaceful spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
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. 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. 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.