West Haven Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near West Haven, 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
Offering trails like the Burrows Trail and Monroe Trail, Camel's Hump State Park provides hikers with a chance to experience Vermont's natural beauty up close. The summit rewards visitors with sweeping views of neighboring peaks and alpine vegetation. The park's diverse trails ensure a memorable adventure for both novice and experienced hikers alike.
3. Lye Brook Falls
LYE BROOK FALLS TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
Nestled in the Green Mountain National Forest, Lye Brook Falls is accessible via a moderate trail that spans 4.6 miles round-trip. The hike features rocky paths, stream crossings, and lush woodlands leading to the impressive multi-tiered waterfall. Its serene atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
The Stowe Pinnacle Trail in CC Putnam State Forest offers an invigorating hike through hardwood forests to a rocky summit with sweeping mountain views. Its well-maintained paths make it accessible while still providing a challenge for experienced hikers. This trail is a quintessential Vermont hiking destination year-round.
5. Killington Peak
BUCKLIN TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Rising to 4,229 feet, Killington Peak offers a variety of hiking experiences for all skill levels. The summit can be reached via trails that traverse lush forests and rocky outcrops. Once at the top, visitors enjoy expansive views of Vermont's stunning landscapes.
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, 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
Warren Falls offers a serene escape with its cascading waterfalls and inviting swimming holes nestled in lush greenery. The short trail to the falls is family-friendly, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. Whether swimming or photographing the scenery, this spot is a quintessential Vermont experience.
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 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 begins with a 900-foot boardwalk crossing wildflower-filled floodplains before ascending to a platform with waterfall views. The trail is easy, flat, and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, making it accessible to all. Thundering Brook Falls Trail is a tranquil spot to enjoy Vermonts natural beauty and the sound of rushing water.
12. Red Rocks Park
LOOP TRAIL | SOUTH BURLINGTON VT
Red Rocks Park's hiking trails wind through a mix of pine and hemlock, leading to rocky outcrops with spectacular water views. Red Rocks Park is a favorite among locals for its peaceful atmosphere and opportunities to spot wildlife. Red Rocks Park is easily accessible from South Burlington and offers a refreshing break from city life.
13. Emerald Lake State Park
LOOP TRAIL | EAST DORSET VT
Emerald Lake State Park boasts the Emerald Lake Loop Trail, a route that showcases the park's unique geology and history, including remnants of old marble quarries. Hikers can enjoy a mix of easy and moderate sections, with highlights such as wildflower-filled meadows and quiet forest glades. Emerald Lake State Park is a great spot for both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.
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 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. 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. 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. Sterling Pond Trail
STERLING POND TRAIL | CAMBRIDGE VT
Sterling Pond Trail leads hikers on a moderately challenging ascent through Smugglers Notch to Vermont's highest alpine pond. The 3.3-mile loop features steep, rocky sections, lush spruce-fir forests, and panoramic views of Madonna Peak and Mount Mansfield. At the summit, Sterling Pond offers a tranquil spot for rest, reflection, or a refreshing swim.
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. Mount Pisgah
SOUTH TRAIL | WESTMORE VT
Mount Pisgah's South Trail is a moderately challenging route that climbs steadily from the southern end of Lake Willoughby, passing several dramatic viewpoints including Pulpit Rock. The trail winds through forested slopes and skirts the edge of high cliffs, offering breathtaking overlooks of the lake and distant mountains. At the summit, hikers can enjoy sweeping views and connect to the North Trail for further exploration.