If you’re wondering where to hike in Vermont this summer, you’ll find plenty of scenic trails offering mountain views, waterfalls, forests, lakes, and peaceful outdoor experiences.
From easy family-friendly walks to challenging mountain climbs, Vermont has hiking options for every skill level.
Whether you live in Vermont or are planning a summer getaway, these 10 scenic Vermont hiking trails are worth exploring.
1. Stowe Pinnacle – Stowe, Vermont
Stowe Pinnacle is one of the most popular choices for hikers looking for impressive mountain views. The trail is challenging in sections, but reaching the summit rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding Green Mountains.
If you’re searching for the best hikes near Stowe, Vermont, Stowe Pinnacle should be high on your list.
Best for: Experienced and intermediate hikers
Highlights: Mountain views, summit scenery, Green Mountains
2. Mount Mansfield – Stowe, Vermont
As Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield offers some of the state’s most spectacular hiking experiences. Several trails lead toward the summit, including routes that take hikers through rugged terrain and alpine landscapes.
Summer is an excellent time to explore Mount Mansfield when the weather is suitable and the trails are accessible.
Best for: Experienced hikers
Highlights: Summit views, alpine terrain, Vermont’s highest mountain
3. Sterling Pond Trail – Stowe, Vermont
Looking for a scenic but rewarding hike in the Stowe area? Sterling Pond Trail leads to Vermont’s highest-elevation trout pond and provides a beautiful forest hiking experience.
The trail includes some steep sections, making it a good option for hikers looking for a moderate challenge.
Best for: Intermediate hikers
Highlights: Forest scenery, pond, mountain atmosphere
4. Moss Glen Falls – Granville, Vermont
Moss Glen Falls is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy Vermont’s natural beauty without committing to a long mountain hike. The waterfall is one of the state’s scenic highlights and is particularly beautiful during the warmer months.
For visitors searching for the best places to hike in Vermont with waterfall scenery, this area is worth adding to a summer itinerary.
Best for: Short walks and sightseeing
Highlights: Waterfall, forest scenery, photography
5. Camel’s Hump – Central Vermont
Camel’s Hump is one of the most recognizable mountains in Vermont and a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. The summit provides expansive views across the surrounding landscape.
For those searching for best hikes in Central Vermont, Camel’s Hump is an excellent option. Be prepared for a more demanding climb, especially near the summit.
Best for: Intermediate and experienced hikers
Highlights: Mountain summit, panoramic views, Green Mountain scenery
6. Mount Philo – Charlotte, Vermont
Mount Philo is a great choice for hikers who want beautiful views without tackling an extremely difficult mountain. The summit overlooks Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains.
It’s especially appealing for families and visitors looking for one of the best easy hikes in Vermont with a rewarding viewpoint.
Best for: Beginners and families
Highlights: Lake Champlain views, easy hiking, scenic summit
7. Quechee Gorge Trail – Quechee, Vermont
Known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” Quechee Gorge is a popular destination for experiencing dramatic scenery. The surrounding trails allow visitors to enjoy forest landscapes and views of the gorge.
It’s a great summer destination for travelers exploring southern and central Vermont.
Best for: Families and casual hikers
Highlights: Gorge views, forest trails, scenic landscapes
8. Sunset Ridge Trail – Underhill, Vermont
Sunset Ridge Trail provides an adventurous route toward Mount Mansfield and is known for beautiful views along the climb. The exposed sections near the upper part of the trail can be challenging, so hikers should be prepared for changing mountain conditions.
The trail is particularly appealing to those looking for scenic Vermont hiking trails with a mountain adventure.
Best for: Experienced hikers
Highlights: Mountain views, exposed ridgeline, alpine scenery
9. Mount Abraham – Lincoln, Vermont
Mount Abraham is another fantastic summer hiking destination in Vermont. The trail passes through forest before reaching higher elevations with expansive views.
If your goal is to experience some of the best summer hikes in Vermont, Mount Abraham offers a rewarding combination of natural beauty and challenging terrain.
Best for: Intermediate and experienced hikers
Highlights: Mountain views, forest, summit scenery
10. Hamilton Falls – Jamaica, Vermont
For waterfall lovers, Hamilton Falls is a beautiful destination to consider during summer. Located within Jamaica State Park, the surrounding area offers opportunities to enjoy Vermont’s forests, rivers, and natural scenery.
It’s a great option for anyone searching for scenic outdoor destinations beyond traditional mountain summits.
Best for: Nature lovers and casual hikers
Highlights: Waterfall, forest, river scenery
Best Summer Hikes in Vermont by Experience Level
Not every Vermont trail is suitable for every hiker. Consider your experience, fitness level, weather conditions, and trail difficulty before choosing a route.
| Experience Level | Recommended Hikes |
| Easy | Mount Philo, Moss Glen Falls |
| Moderate | Sterling Pond, Quechee Gorge, Mount Abraham |
| Challenging | Stowe Pinnacle, Camel’s Hump |
| Experienced | Mount Mansfield, Sunset Ridge |
What Makes Vermont Hiking Special in Summer?
Summer is one of the best seasons to explore Vermont’s outdoors. Longer daylight hours make it easier to plan hikes, while the Green Mountains provide beautiful scenery throughout the season.
Many Vermont hiking trails combine mountain views with forests, waterfalls, ponds, and wildlife. You can also find trails close to charming Vermont towns, making it easy to combine hiking with local restaurants, shops, and other attractions.
Tips for Hiking in Vermont This Summer
Before heading out on a trail, keep these tips in mind:
- Check the weather forecast before leaving.
- Choose a trail that matches your experience and fitness level.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Carry a map or use a reliable trail-navigation app.
- Start early for popular trails and parking areas.
- Stay on marked trails.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Be prepared for changing mountain weather.
- Check current trail conditions before your hike.
Find Your Perfect Vermont Summer Hike
From peaceful waterfall walks to challenging mountain summits, Vermont offers something for almost every type of hiker.
Stowe, Central Vermont, the Champlain Valley, and southern Vermont all provide opportunities to experience the state’s scenic landscapes.
If you’re searching for where to hike in Vermont this summer, start by choosing a trail that fits your experience level and the type of scenery you want to see.
Whether you prefer an easy viewpoint hike or a challenging mountain adventure, Vermont’s trails make summer a great time to explore the outdoors.
Planning to explore Vermont beyond hiking? Discovering the state’s outdoor lifestyle can also help you find the communities that offer the scenery, recreation, and quality of life you’re looking for.
