Whitingham Vermont
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Whitingham, Vermont.
1. Underhill State Park
SUNSET RIDGE TRAIL | UNDERHILL VT
Known for its challenging yet rewarding trails, Underhill State Park allows visitors to ascend Mount Mansfield via routes like Maple Ridge or Sunset Ridge Trails. At the summit ridge, hikers are greeted with expansive views and unique alpine vegetation rarely found in New England. The park also showcases historic CCC-era structures that add charm to this outdoor destination.
2. Camel's Hump State Park
MONROE TRAIL | DUXBURY VT
This state park combines challenging hikes with serene landscapes, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature on trails like the Monroe Trail or Dean Trail loop. The summit hike reveals stunning vistas of Vermont's high peaks and fragile alpine zones that are carefully preserved for future generations to enjoy. History buffs will appreciate landmarks like the B-24 bomber site along certain routes.
3. Lye Brook Falls
LYE BROOK FALLS TRAIL | MANCHESTER VT
Located within Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, Lye Brook Falls is accessible via a scenic trail spanning 4.6 miles round-trip from Manchester's trailhead parking lot. The hike features rocky terrain and forested paths leading to one of the state's most captivating waterfalls at 125 feet tall. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal retreat for hikers seeking natural beauty and solitude alike.
4. CC Putnam State Forest
STOWE PINNACLE TRAIL | STOWE VT
CC Putnam State Forest's Stowe Pinnacle Trail provides a moderately difficult hike with rewarding vistas of the Green Mountains. The trail's highlights include a mix of steep climbs, forest clearings, and a stunning bald summit. It serves as an excellent destination for hikers of all skill levels looking to experience Vermont's wilderness.
5. Killington Peak
BUCKLIN TRAIL | KILLINGTON VT
Killington Peak stands as a premier hiking destination in Vermont's Green Mountains. Trails such as Sherburne Pass and Bucklin Trail provide access to its summit, where hikers are greeted by unparalleled vistas. The climb combines natural serenity with exhilarating challenges.
6. Green Mountain National Forest
ICONIC TRAILS | WILMINGTON VT
Known for its stunning vistas and diverse trails, Green Mountain National Forest is a top hiking destination in New England. Trails like Haystack Mountain offer moderate challenges with rewarding views of surrounding peaks and valleys. Whether hiking for solitude or adventure, visitors are sure to find inspiration here year-round.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
MT PHILO TRAIL LOOP | CHARLOTTE VT
Mt. Philo State Park features a moderate hike of about 0.87 miles to the summit, making it accessible for families and beginners while still offering a steady climb. The summit provides breathtaking vistas across the Champlain Valley and into New York, especially on clear days. Mt. Philo State Park is renowned for its spectacular sunsets, picnic spots at the top, and a summit shelter for relaxing after the hike.
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
Hiking at Quechee State Park is an immersive experience into Vermont's natural history, with trails leading through lush forests to Deweys Pond or down into the gorge itself. The park is known for its accessibility and stunning landscapes that cater to both novice hikers and seasoned adventurers alike. A visit here guarantees lasting memories amidst nature's grandeur.
10. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
POGUE LOOP TRAIL | WOODSTOCK VT
Offering stunning views of The Pogue, this loop trail combines gentle carriage roads with vibrant forest scenery. Seasonal highlights include water lilies in summer and colorful foliage in fall. Its accessibility makes it a favorite among hikers of all ages.
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 invites visitors to explore its well-maintained trails, which wind through woods and emerge at dramatic overlooks above Lake Champlain. The park's varied terrain at Red Rocks Park includes gentle slopes and steeper sections, suitable for all skill levels. Red Rocks Park is also a popular spot for photography and picnicking.
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 2.7-mile route that ascends steadily through forested slopes to the summit. Hikers on the Windsor Trail enjoy highlights such as Gerry Falls, Castle Rock, and panoramic views from the observation tower near the top. Mt Ascutney State Park offers a rewarding challenge for those seeking classic Vermont mountain scenery.
15. Branbury State Park
RATTLESNAKE CLIFF TRAIL | SALISBURY VT
Branbury State Park is a hub for outdoor recreation, with the Rattlesnake Cliff Trail providing a challenging and scenic hiking experience. Branbury State Park's path is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. Branbury State Park is a must for anyone looking to explore Vermont's dramatic landscapes.
16. Niquette Bay State Park
ALLEN TRAIL | COLCHESTER VT
Niquette Bay State Park's Allen Trail offers a short, accessible route to the shores of Lake Champlain, passing through forested ridges and sandy terraces. The trail provides impressive vistas of Malletts Bay, the Green Mountains, and the Lake Champlain Islands. Hikers can enjoy a peaceful day hike with opportunities for nature observation and lakeside relaxation.
17. Coolidge State Forest
SHREWSBURY PEAK TRAIL | SHREWSBURY VT
Coolidge State Forest features the Shrewsbury Peak Trail, which ascends from the CCC Road to the summit of Shrewsbury Peak. Hikers traverse Russell Hill, pass historic Civilian Conservation Corps landmarks, and climb through varied forest terrain before reaching sweeping views of the Plymsbury wetlands and Saltash Mountain. The trail continues along the ridge, offering a challenging and rewarding hike for those seeking high-elevation vistas.
18. Smugglers Notch State Park
LONG TRAIL SMUGGLERS NOTCH SECTION | STOWE VT
Smugglers Notch State Park Campground provides direct access to the Long Trail's dramatic Smugglers Notch section, renowned for its steep cliffs and rich history. Hikers can explore the iconic pass, once used by smugglers and now a hub for outdoor adventure, with trails winding through dense forests and past striking rock formations. The area is ideal for both day hikes and extended treks along Vermont's legendary Long Trail.
19. Okemo State Forest
OKEMO STATE FOREST TRAILS | LUDLOW VT
Okemo State Forest boasts a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Healdville Trail, which ascends three miles to the summit of Okemo Mountain. Hikers are treated to expansive views from the refurbished fire tower and can explore diverse habitats ranging from northern hardwoods to boreal forests. The forest's extensive trail system offers opportunities for both challenging hikes and peaceful nature walks.
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.