Sunderland Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sunderland, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
Tucked into Vermont's Green Mountains, Underhill State Park provides unparalleled access to Mount Mansfield's rugged beauty through its network of hiking trails like Laura Cowles and Sunset Ridge Trails. The park features rare tundra vegetation at higher elevations and connects with Vermont's Long Trail for extended adventures across the ridge line. Its peaceful campsites make it an ideal base for exploring this iconic peak.
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
Lye Brook Falls is a stunning 125-foot waterfall nestled within the Lye Brook Wilderness in Manchester, Vermont. The moderate 4.6-mile round-trip trail weaves through serene forests, rocky terrain, and gentle streams, offering hikers a peaceful woodland experience. At the falls, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and a tranquil spot for relaxation before retracing their steps back to the trailhead.
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
Killington Peak's hiking trails showcase the best of Vermont's natural beauty, from old-growth forests to cascading waterfalls nearby. The final stretch to the summit is steep but manageable, leading to breathtaking views of neighboring mountain ranges. This hike is both challenging and rewarding for outdoor enthusiasts.
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 welcomes hikers in all seasons, with trails open for walking, snowshoeing, and even sledding in winter, and the summit road plowed for access. The park's changing scenery offers a different experience with each season, from wildflowers in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn. Mt. Philo State Park provides a versatile outdoor destination for year-round recreation and exploration.
8. Warren Falls
WARREN FALLS TRAIL | WARREN VT
Tucked away in the Green Mountain National Forest, Warren Falls captivates with its cascading waters and serene atmosphere. The area offers plenty of space for exploration, swimming, and relaxation amidst stunning natural surroundings. Its reputation as a top swimming hole draws visitors from near and far.
9. Quechee State Park
QUECHEE GORGE TRAIL | HARTFORD VT
Hiking at Quechee State Park immerses visitors in the beauty of the 165-foot-deep Quechee Gorge, often called Vermont's Grand Canyon. Trails like the Quechee Gorge Trail lead to serene riverbanks and panoramic views of the surrounding forest. This destination is perfect for nature lovers looking to enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation.
10. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
POGUE LOOP TRAIL | WOODSTOCK VT
Hiking the Pogue Loop Trail provides a glimpse into Vermont's rich conservation history while immersing visitors in nature. The trail winds through managed forests and circles a peaceful pond surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. It is an ideal destination for outdoor relaxation and exploration.
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 trails loop through old-growth trees and lead to rocky shorelines with breathtaking views of the water. Hikers at Red Rocks Park often encounter quiet coves, birdlife, and the occasional glimpse of peregrine falcons nesting on the cliffs. Red Rocks Park is accessible year-round, with portable restrooms available seasonally.
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 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 offers direct access to the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail, a favorite for those seeking a strenuous hike and rewarding views. Branbury State Park's trail traverses diverse terrain, from shaded woods to exposed cliffs. Branbury State Park is an excellent choice for hikers wanting to experience the best of Vermont's wilderness.
16. Button Bay State Park
BUTTON POINT TRAIL | FERRISBURGH VT
Button Bay State Park invites visitors to explore the Button Point Trail, a mostly flat path leading through hardwood forest to the rocky shores of Lake Champlain. The trail ends at a scenic point with panoramic views of the lake and Adirondack Mountains. Hikers are encouraged to stay on the trail to protect rare plants growing in the area's unique geology.
17. Lowell Lake State Park
LOWELL LAKE LOOP TRAIL | LONDONDERRY VT
Lowell Lake State Park features the Lowell Lake Loop Trail, a 3.5-mile path that encircles the tranquil Lowell Lake. The trail highlights include a Revolutionary War-era cemetery, stands of towering white pines, and scenic wetland vistas. With mostly flat terrain and moderate difficulty, it is ideal for hikers seeking a peaceful lakeside experience immersed in nature.
18. CC Putnam State Forest
WORCESTER RANGE TRAILS | WORCESTER VT
CC Putnam State Forest encompasses the Worcester Range Trails, a rugged network traversing peaks like Mount Hunger and Stowe Pinnacle. Hikers experience remote wilderness, diverse forests, and sweeping summit views of the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondacks. The Skyline Trail links several summits, offering a challenging and rewarding ridge walk.
19. Stowe Recreation Path
STOWE RECREATION PATH | STOWE VT
Stowe Recreation Path is a renowned 5.3-mile greenway that stretches from Stowe Village to Topnotch Resort, following the West Branch of Little River. The paved trail is popular for hiking, offering breathtaking mountain views and convenient access to local restaurants and shops along the route. Its gentle terrain and scenic beauty make it a favorite for both residents and visitors seeking a leisurely outdoor experience.
20. Mount Hunger
MOUNT HUNGER TRAIL | WATERBURY VT
Mount Hunger is a popular destination for hikers seeking a moderately challenging climb via the Mount Hunger Trail, which ascends through C.C. Putnam State Forest to a rocky, bald summit. The trail features steady elevation gain, some scrambling near the top, and panoramic views of the Green Mountains, Adirondacks, and even the White Mountains on clear days. The summit rewards hikers with one of Vermont's most spectacular vistas, making the effort well worthwhile.