Middlesex Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Middlesex, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
Situated on Mount Mansfield's west slope, Underhill State Park is renowned for its hiking opportunities, including the scenic Sunset Ridge Trail. This trail leads hikers through diverse landscapes to reach the Chin, the mountain's highest point. The park's natural beauty is complemented by historic structures built during the CCC era.
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
Located in the Green Mountain National Forest, Lye Brook Falls is one of Vermont's tallest waterfalls, accessible via a moderately challenging trail. The hike features rocky paths, lush greenery, and occasional stream crossings that lead to the spectacular tiered cascade. This family-friendly trail offers an unforgettable nature escape for hikers of all skill levels.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
Nestled within CC Putnam State Forest, the Stowe Pinnacle Trail is a steep but manageable hike offering panoramic views of Vermont's iconic peaks. The trail features a mix of forested paths and open rock summits, making it a favorite for nature enthusiasts. Its proximity to additional trail systems enhances its appeal for day hikers and backpackers alike.
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 | WOODFORD VT
Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest features iconic trails such as Harmon Hill and Haystack Mountain, perfect for day hikes or extended adventures. The forest's varied terrain includes rocky summits, fern-filled meadows, and cascading streams. Fall foliage and winter snowshoeing add seasonal charm to this outdoor destination.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park features a moderate hike of about 0.87 miles to the summit, making it accessible for families and beginners while still offering a steady climb. The summit provides breathtaking vistas across the Champlain Valley and into New York, especially on clear days. Mt. Philo State Park is renowned for its spectacular sunsets, picnic spots at the top, and a summit shelter for relaxing after the hike.
8. Warren Falls
WARREN FALLS TRAIL | WARREN VT
Warren Falls offers a short, flat trail leading to a stunning series of waterfalls and deep swimming pools surrounded by natural rock formations. This popular spot is perfect for cliff jumping, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water. Visitors should arrive early during summer months to avoid crowds and secure parking.
9. Quechee State Park
QUECHEE GORGE TRAIL | HARTFORD VT
Hiking at Quechee State Park offers breathtaking views of Vermont's deepest gorge, carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. Trails like the Gorge Trail provide access to riverbanks and peaceful areas near Deweys Pond for relaxation or exploration. This park is an excellent choice for families and casual hikers alike.
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 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 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 provides a gentle hike through a mosaic of hardwood forests, meadows, and lakeside vistas. The path is dotted with interpretive signs and benches, allowing hikers to pause and soak in the scenery. Emerald Lake State Park is especially popular in summer, when the lake's clear waters and shaded trails offer a refreshing escape.
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. Bingham Falls
BINGHAM FALLS TRAIL | STOWE VT
Bingham Falls provides access to the Bingham Falls Trail, a short but steep hike descending to the base of a picturesque waterfall. The trail features rock staircases and requires caution due to slippery conditions, especially near the falls. Visitors are treated to the sights and sounds of cascading water in a lush, forested setting.
17. Mills Riverside Park
SOUTH HILL LOOP EAST | JERICHO VT
Mills Riverside Park features the South Hill Loop East, a pleasant trail winding through open meadows, forested hills, and along the Browns River. The loop offers a moderate challenge with gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for families and casual hikers. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, off-leash dog areas, and a peaceful natural setting year-round.
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. Milton Town Forest
MILTON TOWN FOREST TRAILS | MILTON VT
Milton Town Forest provides hikers with six miles of established trails that loop through 485 acres of woodlands and encircle the scenic 33-acre Milton Pond. The Milton Town Forest Trails offer a tranquil setting for nature walks, wildlife observation, and year-round outdoor recreation. The well-marked paths make it easy for visitors to explore the forest's diverse ecosystems at their own pace.
20. Snake Mountain
SNAKE MOUNTAIN TRAIL | ADDISON VT
Snake Mountain offers a rewarding hike along the historic Snake Mountain Trail, which follows an old carriage road through hardwood forests to a summit with sweeping 180-degree views of the Champlain Valley and Adirondacks. The 4.1-mile round-trip trail is moderately challenging, with a steady but manageable ascent and a wide, easy-to-follow path that was once used to transport guests to a summit hotel. Hikers are treated to scenic vistas, a peaceful woodland atmosphere, and the chance to explore remnants of the mountain's storied past.