Sheffield Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sheffield, 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 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
Hidden within Manchester's Lye Brook Wilderness, Lye Brook Falls stands as one of Vermont's tallest waterfalls at 125 feet high. The moderately challenging hike takes visitors through rocky trails and lush forests to reach this breathtaking natural spectacle. Its serene setting makes it a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts seeking scenic beauty and tranquility.
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
With its towering height and scenic trails, Killington Peak stands out as a premier hiking destination in Vermont. The ascent challenges hikers with diverse terrain but rewards them with unmatched views from its summit at 4,229 feet. It's a must-do adventure for anyone exploring the Green Mountains region.
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's trails pass through habitats rich with deer, moose, and seasonal wildflowers, offering a chance to experience Vermont's natural diversity. Hikers may encounter painted trillium, starflowers, and a variety of birds along the way, especially in spring and fall. Mt. Philo State Park is a nature lover's retreat just minutes from Burlington, with opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.
8. Warren Falls
WARREN FALLS TRAIL | WARREN VT
Known for its pristine waters and dramatic scenery, Warren Falls is a must-visit destination along Route 100. The falls provide opportunities for cliff jumping, wading in shallow pools, or enjoying a picnic by the riverbank. Its accessibility and charm make it one of Vermont's most beloved natural attractions.
9. Quechee State Park
QUECHEE GORGE TRAIL | HARTFORD VT
Nestled in Hartford, Vermont, Quechee State Park offers hiking trails that lead to unparalleled views of its iconic gorge and tranquil riverbanks. The trails are well-maintained and provide a mix of shaded woodland paths and open scenic vistas. Ideal for day trips or weekend adventures, this park is a haven for nature enthusiasts year-round.
10. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
POGUE LOOP TRAIL | WOODSTOCK VT
The Pogue Loop Trail provides a serene hiking experience around a picturesque mountain pond in Vermont's only national park. Surrounded by managed forests, the trail features ferns, wildflowers, and occasional wildlife sightings. Its easy-to-moderate difficulty makes it accessible for all skill levels.
11. Thundering Brook Falls Trail
THUNDERING BROOK FALLS TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Thundering Brook Falls Trail offers sweeping views of the Ottauquechee Valley and a dramatic 140-foot waterfall at the trails end. The accessible route is part of the Appalachian Trail and is maintained by local conservation groups. Thundering Brook Falls Trail is a highlight for anyone exploring the Killington area.
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 offers the Emerald Lake Loop Trail, where hikers can enjoy a tranquil journey through forests, meadows, and along the lake's edge. The trail is especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sunlight dances on the water. Emerald Lake State Park is a peaceful haven for anyone looking to experience Vermont's natural charm.
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 is the starting point for the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail, known for its steep climb and breathtaking overlooks. Branbury State Park's trail is a great way to experience the region's forests, cliffs, and lakes in one hike. Branbury State Park is a top pick for visitors who love challenging trails and scenic rewards.
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. 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. Prospect Rock
PROSPECT ROCK TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
Prospect Rock Trail in Manchester climbs steadily along Rootville Road and the Downer Glen Ravine, leading hikers to a dramatic overlook known as Prospect Rock. The trail is moderately challenging, with a spur that rewards visitors with sweeping views of Manchester Valley and Mount Equinox. The hike is well-loved for its scenic payoff, making the effort to reach the summit worthwhile.
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.