Essex Junction Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Essex Junction, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
A haven for hikers and campers alike, Underhill State Park sits at the base of Mount Mansfield's western slope in Vermont's largest state forest. Trails such as Sunset Ridge provide direct access to the mountain's summit ridge with breathtaking scenery along the way. Visitors can also enjoy rustic camping facilities surrounded by serene wilderness settings.
2. Camel's Hump State Park
MONROE TRAIL | DUXBURY VT
Camel's Hump State Park invites visitors to explore its diverse trails, including the Monroe Trail and Forest City Loop, which offer unique perspectives of Vermont's wilderness. The summit hike rewards adventurers with panoramic views stretching across multiple states. Accessible paths ensure everyone can enjoy this natural gem regardless of skill level.
3. Lye Brook Falls
LYE BROOK FALLS TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
A hike to Lye Brook Falls offers a blend of adventure and tranquility in Vermont's Lye Brook Wilderness. The moderately difficult trail winds through dense woodlands, crossing streams and rocky terrain before reaching the towering waterfall. This natural wonder is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic beauty and solitude.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
The Stowe Pinnacle Trail in CC Putnam State Forest is renowned for its short yet steep climb leading to stunning vistas of Vermont's peaks. This well-loved trail features diverse landscapes, including dense woods and open rock faces at the summit. It provides an unforgettable hiking experience for visitors year-round.
5. Killington Peak
BUCKLIN TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
A trek to Killington Peak takes hikers along iconic trails like the Appalachian and Long Trails. The route offers diverse terrain, from gentle inclines to rugged climbs, ending with stunning 360-degree views. This peak is a must-visit for both seasoned and aspiring adventurers.
6. Green Mountain National Forest
ICONIC TRAILS | STRATTON VT
Stretching across Vermont's rugged landscapes, Green Mountain National Forest features trails like Stratton Pond and Bald Mountain that showcase its ecological richness. Visitors can enjoy wildlife encounters alongside scenic hiking routes that range from easy loops to challenging summits. The forest remains a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
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
Featuring dramatic cliffs and refreshing pools, Warren Falls is a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The trailhead provides quick access to this scenic gem, where visitors can enjoy activities like cliff jumping or relaxing by the water's edge. Its popularity highlights its status as one of Vermont's top attractions.
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
This scenic loop trail takes visitors around The Pogue, a 14-acre pond surrounded by Mount Tom's hardwood forests. Gentle pathways lead through vibrant ecosystems, offering moments of reflection and relaxation in nature's embrace. It is a must-visit for those seeking serenity in Vermont's countryside.
11. Thundering Brook Falls Trail
THUNDERING BROOK FALLS TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Thundering Brook Falls Trail is a unique segment of the Appalachian Trail, providing the first wheelchair accessible section in Vermont. The 0.5-mile out-and-back route includes a well-maintained boardwalk and a gentle ascent to a waterfall viewing platform. Thundering Brook Falls Trail is dog-friendly and connects to longer hiking options for those seeking more exploration.
12. Red Rocks Park
LOOP TRAIL | SOUTH BURLINGTON VT
Red Rocks Park's hiking trails wind through a mix of pine and hemlock, leading to rocky outcrops with spectacular water views. Red Rocks Park is a favorite among locals for its peaceful atmosphere and opportunities to spot wildlife. Red Rocks Park is easily accessible from South Burlington and offers a refreshing break from city life.
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 features the Windsor Trail, a steep and direct path that rewards hikers with sweeping views and natural landmarks. The trail's highlights include a picturesque waterfall and rocky overlooks before reaching the summit's observation tower. Mt Ascutney State Park is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Vermont.
15. Branbury State Park
RATTLESNAKE CLIFF TRAIL | SALISBURY VT
Branbury State Park is the gateway to the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail, a challenging hike that rewards with panoramic views of the surrounding region. Branbury State Park's trail is known for its elevation gain and the sense of accomplishment at the summit. Branbury State Park is a popular spot for hikers seeking both exercise and scenery.
16. Jamaica State Park
OVERLOOK TRAIL LOOP | JAMAICA VT
Jamaica State Park's Overlook Trail Loop guides hikers through forested hills to scenic viewpoints above the West River. The trail serves as a detour to popular destinations like Hamilton Falls and offers a peaceful woodland experience. Along the way, hikers can appreciate the park's diverse flora and the sounds of rushing water below.
17. White Rocks National Recreation Area
ICE BEDS TRAIL | WALLINGFORD VT
White Rocks National Recreation Area features the Ice Beds Trail, a short but striking hike leading to the base of massive talus piles beneath the White Rocks Cliffs. The trail is known for its cool air and streams of icy water that persist into summer, thanks to the deep rock crevices. Hikers are treated to unique geological features and scenic vistas, making this trail a favorite for nature enthusiasts.
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. Hogback Mountain Conservation Area
HOGBACK MOUNTAIN TRAIL | MARLBORO VT
Hogback Mountain Conservation Area offers hikers a scenic trail network that follows the ridgeline to the true summit of Hogback Mountain. The Hogback Mountain Trail takes visitors through diverse forest types, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy seasonal views, especially in winter when the foliage opens up panoramic vistas. Trail users can expect a mix of loop options and a peaceful, natural setting managed by local volunteers.
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.