Derby Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Derby, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
With its proximity to Mount Mansfield's summit ridge, Underhill State Park is a prime destination for hikers seeking adventure in Vermont's Green Mountains. Trails like Sunset Ridge offer stunning views and connect with Vermont's Long Trail for extended exploration. The park also provides camping facilities ideal for multi-day trips in nature.
2. Camel's Hump State Park
MONROE TRAIL | DUXBURY VT
This beloved park features trails ranging from universally accessible routes to challenging summit climbs that lead to Camel's Hump's iconic peak. The Burrows Trail is particularly popular for its well-maintained path and rewarding views at the top. With its diverse terrain and rich history, the park offers something for everyone to enjoy year-round.
3. Lye Brook Falls
LYE BROOK FALLS TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
Lye Brook Falls is a stunning 125-foot waterfall nestled within the Lye Brook Wilderness in Manchester, Vermont. The moderate 4.6-mile round-trip trail weaves through serene forests, rocky terrain, and gentle streams, offering hikers a peaceful woodland experience. At the falls, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and a tranquil spot for relaxation before retracing their steps back to the trailhead.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
Hiking the Stowe Pinnacle Trail in CC Putnam State Forest offers an immersive experience in Vermont's rugged landscapes. The trail combines challenging inclines with serene forest sections, culminating in sweeping views from the summit. Its connection to other trails makes it a versatile choice for both short hikes and longer treks.
5. Killington Peak
BUCKLIN TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Hiking to Killington Peak is a quintessential Vermont adventure, blending natural beauty with physical challenge. The journey includes picturesque woodlands and a steep rock scramble near the summit. At 4,229 feet, the peak rewards hikers with sweeping views of three states.
6. Green Mountain National Forest
ICONIC TRAILS | WILMINGTON VT
Known for its stunning vistas and diverse trails, Green Mountain National Forest is a top hiking destination in New England. Trails like Haystack Mountain offer moderate challenges with rewarding views of surrounding peaks and valleys. Whether hiking for solitude or adventure, visitors are sure to find inspiration here year-round.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park features a variety of trails, including the Summit, House Rock, Devil's Chair, and Old Carriage Road, each offering unique terrain and viewpoints. Hikers can combine routes for longer loops or stick to the main path for a direct ascent, with trail distances ranging from 0.2 to 2 miles. Mt. Philo State Park caters to both casual walkers and those seeking a bit more adventure, with trail maps available at the entrance.
8. Warren Falls
WARREN FALLS TRAIL | WARREN VT
Known as one of Vermont's premier swimming holes, Warren Falls combines breathtaking waterfalls with tranquil pools set against a backdrop of lush greenery and rugged rocks. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming or exploring nearby trails while taking in the serene environment. It remains a timeless favorite among locals and travelers alike.
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
The Pogue Loop Trail provides hikers with an immersive experience in Vermont's conservation-focused landscape. From towering trees to serene water views, the trail highlights the park's harmonious blend of history and nature. Its gentle terrain ensures a rewarding hike for visitors of all abilities.
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 a hidden gem offering a collection of interconnected trails perfect for hiking to the lake's edge. Red Rocks Park's paths are mostly shaded, making them comfortable for summer walks and peaceful in winter snow. Red Rocks Park is a great choice for families, solo hikers, and anyone seeking a quiet retreat in nature.
13. Emerald Lake State Park
LOOP TRAIL | EAST DORSET VT
Emerald Lake State Park's Emerald Lake Loop Trail offers a classic Vermont hiking experience, with a mix of shaded woods, open meadows, and lakeshore paths. The trail is easy to follow and provides several spots to rest, picnic, or swim along the way. Emerald Lake State Park is a top pick for visitors looking to combine hiking with other outdoor activities.
14. Mt Ascutney State Park
WINDSOR TRAIL | WINDSOR VT
Mt Ascutney State Park invites adventurers to tackle the Windsor Trail, the most direct and steepest path to the summit. The trail begins in a meadow, quickly entering dense woods and offering a consistent climb with scenic stops like Gerry Falls. Mt Ascutney State Park rewards hikers with sweeping summit vistas and a sense of accomplishment.
15. Branbury State Park
RATTLESNAKE CLIFF TRAIL | SALISBURY VT
Branbury State Park is a hub for outdoor recreation, with the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail providing a challenging and scenic hiking experience. Branbury State Park's path is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. Branbury State Park is a must for anyone looking to explore Vermont's dramatic landscapes.
16. Willoughby State Forest
MOUNT PISGAH TRAIL | WESTMORE VT
Willoughby State Forest is renowned for the Mount Pisgah Trail, a moderate hike leading to dramatic clifftop vistas over Lake Willoughby and the Northeast Kingdom. Multiple route options allow hikers to enjoy scenic overlooks, including views of the Passumpsic Valley and the White Mountains. The trail is especially popular for its panoramic lookouts and striking natural scenery.
17. Deer Leap Trail
DEER LEAP TRAIL | RUTLAND VT
The Deer Leap Trail in Rutland is a moderately challenging hike known for its rocky, root-filled path and rewarding overlook. Hikers ascend through birch and pine woods to reach the Deer Leap Overlook, where expansive views of the valley and surrounding mountains await. The trail is well-marked and offers a quiet, scenic escape for those seeking a short but invigorating trek.
18. Sterling Pond Trail
STERLING POND TRAIL | CAMBRIDGE VT
Sterling Pond Trail leads hikers on a moderately challenging ascent through Smugglers Notch to Vermont's highest alpine pond. The 3.3-mile loop features steep, rocky sections, lush spruce-fir forests, and panoramic views of Madonna Peak and Mount Mansfield. At the summit, Sterling Pond offers a tranquil spot for rest, reflection, or a refreshing swim.
19. Stowe Recreation Path
STOWE RECREATION PATH | STOWE VT
Stowe Recreation Path is a renowned 5.3-mile greenway that stretches from Stowe Village to Topnotch Resort, following the West Branch of Little River. The paved trail is popular for hiking, offering breathtaking mountain views and convenient access to local restaurants and shops along the route. Its gentle terrain and scenic beauty make it a favorite for both residents and visitors seeking a leisurely outdoor experience.
20. Mount Abraham
MOUNT ABRAHAM TRAIL | LINCOLN VT
Mount Abraham is reached by hiking the Mount Abraham Trail, which traverses a mix of sugarbushes, hardwood forests, and alpine terrain to Vermont's fifth highest peak. The trail is known for its moderate difficulty, rare alpine vegetation, and a summit above treeline that offers expansive views of the Green Mountains, Champlain Valley, and Adirondacks. Hikers should stay on the marked path to protect fragile plants and enjoy the unique high-elevation landscape.