Nestled in the heart of New England, Vermont offers some of the most picturesque and diverse hiking trails in the region. From the serene paths winding through its lush green forests to the challenging ascents of the Green Mountains, Vermont is a hiker's paradise. Whether you're seeking a tranquil walk beside a shimmering lake or an adrenaline-pumping trek to a panoramic summit, Vermont's trails promise an unforgettable experience for adventurers of all levels. Embrace the beauty of each season, and let the natural charm of Vermont guide your next hiking adventure.
Enjoy a nearly 6-mile scenic hike on the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail just steps away from our many summer adventures. Take the trail to the summit for breathtaking views of the Green Mountains – it’s a perfect 4-hour day hike with year-round access. The summit is fully equipped with a shelter, basic privy, and amazing 360° views of Stratton Mountain, Okemo, Magic Mountain, Killington, and even Mount Washington on a clear day. Bring your family, friends or K-9 friend with and share the experience.
The Craftsbury Outdoor Center is the best home base for hiking in Vermont’s beautiful Northeast Kingdom. The Center’s singletrack and ski trails are ideal for summer hikes. Smooth ski trails, technical singletrack and compelling views offer something for everyone. The Outdoor Center is also less than an hour of driving away from premier hiking at Mount Pisgah, Stowe Mountain and Jay Peak. The on campus and regionally adjacent hiking opportunities make the Craftsbury Outdoor Center a leading Vermont hiking destination.
With 15 miles of hiking trails, hikers will never take the same route up or down The Beast. The rewards after summiting Vermont’s second tallest peak are unencumbered 360 degree views of Vermont’s Green Mountains, New York’s Adirondacks, New Hampshire’s White Mountains and of course access to the Peak Lodge, Killington’s state of the art facility offering fresh food and cool drinks to hikers and mountain bikers all summer. K-1 Gondola Season Passes are also available for unlimited round trip rides to the Peak Lodge on Vermont’s highest elevation lift.
Magic Mountain is the perfect spot for a mountain hike with two marked hiking trails through the glades and of course our open trail system. There are trails all the way to the top on the East and West sides and for those who want to do a less strenuous climb, the “Sunshine Corner” picnic hang out offers incredible views about half way up the mountain. The Black Line Tavern will be open for food and refreshments much of the summer, so hikers can get a reward after putting in a little vertical sweat equity.
Whether hiking Mount Snow, on Dover’s network of trails, or in one of 6 State Parks in Southern Vermont, it’s safe to say that there’s always a hiking trail nearby. Adventurers can plan their own hike or explore the mountains with Mount Snow’s knowledgeable guides. Even better, make a day of it and hike up to The Bullwheel restaurant at the summit and enjoy lunch and a frosty beverage on the scenic deck. Hikers (and diners) can give their legs a break and hitch a ride down on the Bluebird Express chairlift.
Hiking enthusiasts visiting Okemo are welcome to hike along Mountain Road to the summit or along the many ski trails. For a more traditional hiking experience, the Healdville Trail is a well-marked wooded pathway that ascends the western slope of Okemo and ends at the historic fire tower at the summit of Okemo Mountain. This summer, Okemo is upgrading two lifts and cutting a new ski trail. For the safety of visitors and staff, we ask that hikers avoid work areas around the mountain, follow all sign directives and do not cross fence barriers in work zones. They should also remain alert for construction vehicles on Mountain Road.
Visitors to Sugarbush can try one of the many diverse hikes, explore scenic country roads and covered bridges that scatter the Valley, or meander along the nature paths of the Mad River. Group and private guided naturalist hikes are available. The Long Trail crosses over both of Sugarbush’s mountains and provides great day hikes, including the Gap-to-Gap Hike from Lincoln Gap across the Monroe Skyline to the Appalachian Gap. The resort also offers hiking trails from its base area to the summits, as well as Burnt Rock, a moderate hike just a few miles from the resort.
Nestled right in the heart of the Green Mountains, Smugglers’ offers hikes for every age, interest, and ability. The Resort hosts guided outings designed for families with young children at a gentle pace and with fun learning opportunities. A variety of other guided outings entice new hikers and experienced hikers with the opportunities to learn more about the history of the surrounding area and the local flora and fauna, and to summit some of the area’s most challenging peaks. Guided hiking is included in the resort’s vacation packages. The resort provides informational sheets on self-guided outings nearby.
Cliff Trail
This trail may be short, but it’s definitely not sweet. Think: scaling ladders, clambering over boulders, and hopping across ravines. There are extraordinary views from beginning to end. Take a scenic ride on the Gondola Skyride and once you reach the summit, soak in a breathtaking 360 of the alpine landscape. Give yourself a couple of hours to explore the ridgeline’s beautiful rock formations, cave-like structures, and unique vegetation. You’ll have worked up an appetite after all that, so head down to the Cliff House patio for a bite before riding the Gondola back.
Stratton Mountain holds a special place in hiking history. Both the fathers of the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail, Benton MacKaye and James P. Taylor, got their inspiration atop the summit of southern Vermont’s highest peak, where today the storied footpaths share a route. Hiking is perfect for any age and ability level, giving everyone a chance to embrace the outdoors - all you need is a comfortable pair of sneakers and some water. Grab a hiking map from the First Run in Stratton Village and explore fan favorites like the Stratton fire tower or a summit ascent through the meadows.
Visitors to Sugarbush can try one of the many diverse hikes, explore scenic country roads and covered bridges that scatter the Valley, or meander along the nature paths of the Mad River. Group and private guided naturalist hikes are available. The Long Trail crosses over both of Sugarbush’s mountains and provides great day hikes, including the Gap-to-Gap Hike from Lincoln Gap across the Monroe Skyline to the Appalachian Gap. The resort also offers hiking trails from its base area to the summits, as well as Burnt Rock, a moderate hike just a few miles from the resort.
Bromley offers a college pass (and other benefits) at a discounted price.
College students can ski any day midweek for just $45 (or purchase a season pass before December 25th for unlimited access.
1- and 2-season college-rate season passesare available for full-time students.
College season passes are available for college students ages 29 and under.
Mad River Glen now offers a college pass to full-time students between the ages of 18-29 with no restricted dates. Pick up a full college pass for $169 or $145 if you're a college student and shareholder.
Middlebury Snowbowl offers College Students a young adult day-only pass that is available for just $249. A night only pass that is just $150 for the season or a day/night combo pass for $324.
Through their website, Stratton is excited to welcome you and your collegiate crew with 50% off lift tickets Monday - Friday, excluding holiday blackout dates, to active college students.
College students can take advantage of Sugarbush's local pass options, and there are also college student deals on the Ikon pass.