Walden Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Walden, 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
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
A hike to Lye Brook Falls offers a blend of adventure and tranquility in Vermont's Lye Brook Wilderness. The moderately difficult trail winds through dense woodlands, crossing streams and rocky terrain before reaching the towering waterfall. This natural wonder is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic beauty and solitude.
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
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 | BENNINGTON VT
The Green Mountain National Forest offers hikers access to Vermont's oldest long-distance trail, the Long Trail, along with shorter scenic routes like Deer Leap and Harmon Hill. Its rugged terrain includes alpine ridges, hardwood forests, and tranquil ponds perfect for exploration. This protected area is ideal for both day hikes and multi-day treks.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park is known for its short but moderately challenging hike to a summit with expansive views, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quick adventure. The climb, with about 562 feet of elevation gain, is manageable for most, including children and beginners. Mt. Philo State Park is a go-to spot for quick hikes with big rewards, offering both natural beauty and a sense of accomplishment.
8. Warren Falls
WARREN FALLS TRAIL | WARREN VT
Nestled in the Mad River Valley, Warren Falls features cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools ideal for swimming and photography. The easy access trail makes it a favorite for families and adventurers alike. Its scenic beauty shines year-round, from lush summers to vibrant autumns.
9. Quechee State Park
QUECHEE GORGE TRAIL | HARTFORD VT
Hiking at Quechee State Park provides visitors with stunning vistas of Vermont's deepest gorge while exploring well-marked trails through forested terrain and riverside areas near Deweys Pond. The moderate difficulty makes it suitable for families looking for an enjoyable outdoor adventure together in nature's embrace. This park offers an idyllic escape from everyday life into a world of tranquility and beauty.
10. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
POGUE LOOP TRAIL | WOODSTOCK VT
Hikers on the Pogue Loop Trail can explore Vermont's conservation legacy while enjoying scenic views of The Pogue. The trail offers a gentle climb through diverse ecosystems, including century-old trees and vibrant meadows. This loop is perfect for appreciating nature's tranquility in all seasons.
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 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'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 offers the Windsor Trail, a steep and scenic route leading to the mountain's summit and observation tower. Hikers are treated to forested landscapes, a charming waterfall, and dramatic rock outcrops along the way. Mt Ascutney State Park stands out as a premier hiking location in Vermont.
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. 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. Groton State Forest
OWLS HEAD TRAIL | GROTON VT
Groton State Forest is home to the Owls Head Trail, a moderate hike leading to a scenic summit overlooking Lake Groton, Kettle Pond, and the Green Mountains. The trail meanders through rolling terrain and features a short staircase climb built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. At the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views and a peaceful spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
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. 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. Grout Pond Recreation Area
GROUT POND LOOP TRAIL | STRATTON VT
Grout Pond Recreation Area features the Grout Pond Loop Trail, a relatively flat and easy-to-moderate path that circles the scenic 80-acre pond through low-lying woodlands. The trail system offers over 10 miles of interconnected routes, with blue diamond blazes guiding hikers through wetlands, forests, and lakeshore vistas. This area is popular for year-round hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, though trails can be wet and muddy at times.