Pittsford Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pittsford, 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
Camel's Hump State Park in Vermont offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, from accessible paths to challenging summit routes. The iconic Camel's Hump peak rewards hikers with panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and Vermont's Green Mountains. Visitors can explore lush forests, alpine zones, and even historical landmarks like the B-24 bomber crash site.
3. Lye Brook Falls
LYE BROOK FALLS TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
Lye Brook Falls is a must-see destination in Manchester, Vermont, featuring one of the state's highest waterfalls at 125 feet. The 4.6-mile hike takes visitors through shaded forests and past remnants of historic logging sites before arriving at the breathtaking falls. Perfect for families and seasoned hikers alike, this trail combines history, nature, and adventure.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
The Stowe Pinnacle Trail within CC Putnam State Forest is a popular route featuring steep terrain and rewarding summit views. Hikers can enjoy picturesque overlooks of Mount Mansfield and Camel's Hump while traversing diverse ecosystems. This trail is ideal for those seeking both physical challenge and scenic beauty.
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 | GOSHEN VT
Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest combines natural beauty with recreational variety across its expansive acreage. Trails such as Mount Horrid's Great Cliff offer thrilling climbs while others like Sunset Ledge provide serene sunset views over Lake Champlain. This forest caters to hikers seeking both challenge and tranquility in nature's embrace.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park, Vermont's first state park, offers a short, steady climb suitable for all ages, with the main trail beginning right at the parking lot. The well-maintained trails and summit road allow for both hiking and driving options to reach the 968-foot peak. Mt. Philo State Park is ideal for a quick outdoor escape, with rewarding scenery and amenities like picnic benches and a seasonal pavilion at the summit.
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
At Quechee State Park, hikers can traverse trails leading to Vermont's iconic gorge, formed by ancient glacial movements. The paths are well-marked and provide opportunities to enjoy wildlife, river views, and fall foliage. Whether hiking solo or with family, this park delivers an unforgettable journey into nature's splendor.
10. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
POGUE LOOP TRAIL | WOODSTOCK VT
The Pogue Loop Trail circles a historic man-made pond nestled within Mount Tom's forested slopes. This easy hike showcases Vermont's natural beauty with its mix of serene water views and shaded woodland paths. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot herons or owls along the way.
11. Thundering Brook Falls Trail
THUNDERING BROOK FALLS TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Thundering Brook Falls Trail is a short, easy hike that rewards visitors with views of Vermonts sixth tallest waterfall. The trail features a mix of boardwalk and dirt path, with a gentle climb to a spacious viewing platform. Thundering Brook Falls Trail is perfect for a quick outdoor adventure or a relaxing afternoon in nature.
12. Red Rocks Park
LOOP TRAIL | SOUTH BURLINGTON VT
Red Rocks Park offers a tranquil setting for hiking, with trails that pass through lush forests and along rocky ridges. At Red Rocks Park, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of the lake and distant mountains. Red Rocks Park is open year-round, with free parking and no entry fee outside the summer season.
13. Emerald Lake State Park
LOOP TRAIL | EAST DORSET VT
Emerald Lake State Park features the Emerald Lake Loop Trail, which combines lakeside strolls with gentle climbs to scenic viewpoints. The trail is accessible from the main campground and is well-suited for a morning or afternoon hike. Emerald Lake State Park is known for its crystal-clear waters and the vibrant green hue that gives the lake its name.
14. Mt Ascutney State Park
WINDSOR TRAIL | WINDSOR VT
Mt Ascutney State Park's Windsor Trail is a direct and invigorating hike, ascending 2.7 miles to the summit's panoramic observation tower. The trail features natural attractions like Gerry Falls and Castle Rock, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. Mt Ascutney State Park is a must for hikers in the Windsor area.
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. Gifford Woods State Park
KENT POND LOOP TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Gifford Woods State Park is home to the Kent Pond Loop Trail, a gentle circuit that meanders through old-growth hardwood forest and along the edge of Kent Pond. The trail is known for its rich understory of wildflowers and opportunities to spot native wildlife. Hikers enjoy a tranquil walk beneath towering maples and beech trees, especially vibrant during autumn.
17. Hamilton Falls
HAMILTON FALLS TRAIL | JAMAICA VT
Hamilton Falls is accessed via the Hamilton Falls Trail, a scenic route beginning in Jamaica State Park and following the West River and Switch Road Trails. The hike is approximately three miles one way, culminating at the dramatic 125-foot cascade of Hamilton Falls. Hikers should exercise caution near the falls due to steep, slippery rocks and strong currents, but the journey offers a memorable adventure through lush woodland.
18. Cady Hill Forest
CADY HILL TRAILS | STOWE VT
Cady Hill Forest is home to the Cady Hill Trails, an 11-mile network winding through 258 acres of conserved land. The trails offer a mix of single and double track paths, catering to hikers of all abilities and providing access to hardwood forests, wetlands, and scenic overlooks. Visitors enjoy year-round hiking with easy access from Stowe's town center.
19. Mount Haystack
MOUNT HAYSTACK TRAIL | WILMINGTON VT
Mount Haystack Trail in Wilmington is a moderately challenging hike that ascends about 1000 feet to the 3445-foot summit of Haystack Mountain. The trail winds through high-elevation forests and offers sweeping 180-degree views over the Deerfield Valley, with sights of Mount Snow, Haystack Pond, and even Mount Monadnock on clear days. Hikers will experience a mix of gradual and steep sections, culminating in rewarding vistas at the summit.
20. Wiessner Woods Trails, Stowe Land Trust
WIESSNER WOODS TRAILS | STOWE VT
Wiessner Woods Trails provide an easy to moderate hiking experience through mature forests of hemlock, spruce, pine, and hardwoods, with well-marked paths ideal for families and dog owners. The 2.1-mile network features gentle terrain, small streams, and a peaceful, shaded environment perfect for a relaxing walk in nature. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the woods and spot whimsical touches like gnome villages along the way.