Highgate VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Highgate, Vermont.
1. Highgate Falls Portage Trail
RIVERSIDE WALKING PATH
Highgate Falls Portage Trail follows the Missisquoi River, offering hikers a scenic riverside walk through lush forest. The trail is beginner-friendly with gentle terrain, making it ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed outdoor experience. The main highlight is the proximity to the river and the picturesque waterfalls found along the route.
2. Burrows Trail
MOUNTAIN ASCENT ADVENTURE
Burrows Trail is a popular 5.4-mile out-and-back hike located on the west side of Mount Mansfield. The trail is moderately challenging, featuring a steady climb through dense forest to reach open summit views. Hikers are rewarded with sweeping vistas of Vermont's highest peak and the surrounding landscape.
3. Burton Island State Park
ISLAND NATURE TRAILS
Burton Island State Park features a scenic network of walking trails that wind through forest and along Lake Champlain's shoreline. The level terrain is suitable for all skill levels, making it perfect for casual hikes and nature walks. Highlights include abundant wildlife, lake views, and peaceful picnic spots.
4. Lake Carmi State Park
LAKESIDE WOODLAND WALKS
Lake Carmi State Park offers easy-to-moderate hiking trails that pass through hardwood forests and skirt the tranquil shores of Lake Carmi. The trails are ideal for families and birdwatchers, with flat terrain and scenic lake views. The main attractions are the serene woodland atmosphere and opportunities for spotting local wildlife.
5. Knight Island State Park
REMOTE ISLAND TRAILS
Knight Island State Park provides a remote hiking experience on Lake Champlain, accessible by boat and featuring rustic trails traversing the length of the island. The trails are generally easy, winding through wooded areas and leading to secluded shorelines. The park is best known for its peaceful setting, rare wildflowers, and panoramic water views.
6. Milton Town Forest
MULTI-USE FOREST TRAILS
Milton Town Forest is home to a varied trail network that winds through mixed hardwood forests and wetlands. The trails cater to all skill levels, ranging from easy walks to more moderate hikes with gentle elevation changes. The area is popular for wildlife observation and peaceful woodland escapes.
7. Knight Point State Park
PENINSULA LOOP WALKS
Knight Point State Park offers easy, family-friendly trails that circle a picturesque peninsula on Lake Champlain. The paths are flat and shaded, making them accessible to hikers of all ages and abilities. Highlights include lake views, picnic spots, and a tranquil natural environment.
8. Grand Isle State Park
ISLAND ESCAPE PATHS
Grand Isle State Park features gentle trails winding through wooded areas and open meadows, providing glimpses of the lake and surrounding islands. The trails are suitable for beginners and those looking for a leisurely walk in nature. The park is known for its scenic beauty and opportunities for nature observation.
9. Windmill Hill Ridgeline Trail
RIDGE AND SUMMIT VIEWS
The Windmill Hill Ridgeline Trail System is a 16-mile series of interconnected trails traversing Putney Mountain and The Pinnacle, offering moderate difficulty with rolling ascents. The trail features open summits, woodland canopies, and panoramic west-facing vistas. Hikers enjoy ridge walks, wildlife, and serene forest landscapes.
10. Underhill State Park Trails
GATEWAY TO MOUNT MANSFIELD
Underhill State Park serves as a popular starting point for several trails leading to the summit of Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak. Trails range from moderate to strenuous, including scenic forest paths and challenging climbs. The park is especially renowned for its sweeping summit views and diverse hiking options.