As autumn paints northwest Vermont in vibrant hues, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than on the trails. From gentle lakeside walks to challenging mountain summits, the Burlington area offers hikes for every skill level. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these trails showcase Vermont’s natural beauty, crisp fall air, and the active lifestyle that defines the region.
1. Mount Philo State Park – Charlotte, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~ 30 minutes (18 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A 1.9-mile round-trip hike with panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. This short but rewarding trail is great for families and beginner hikers looking for a quick nature escape.
2. Red Rocks Park – South Burlington, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~ 10 minutes (3 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A short, scenic walk along Lake Champlain, offering a mix of forested trails and dramatic cliffs with water views. Perfect for a peaceful stroll that is nearby to the city of Burlington.
3. Camel’s Hump – Huntington, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~ 45 minutes (24 miles)
Difficulty: Challenging
Description: One of Vermont’s highest peaks, with various trail options. The Burrows and Monroe Trails are popular 6 to 7 mile round-trip hikes that offer stunning 360-degree views. Ideal for experienced hikers seeking a full day of adventure.
4. Mt. Mansfield via Sunset Ridge Trail – Underhill, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (25 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Description: A 6.5-mile round-trip hike to Vermont's highest peak. Sunset Ridge offers open ridgeline views and a challenging yet rewarding ascent. Perfect for those looking to experience breathtaking alpine vistas.
5. Niquette Bay State Park – Colchester, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~25 minutes (12 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A network of trails through peaceful woods leading to Lake Champlain's shores. The longest trail is around 3.5 miles, making it great for a relaxing, scenic hike with beautiful water views.
6. Stowe Pinnacle Trail – Stowe, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (36 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A 3.7-mile round-trip trail offering panoramic views of the valley and Mt. Mansfield. The fall foliage is especially beautiful, making this a popular hike during the season.
7. Sterling Pond Trail – Smugglers’ Notch, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (38 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A 2.5-mile round-trip hike to a serene mountain pond. The trail is steep at first but levels off, offering a rewarding view at the top. Great for those looking for a moderate hike with a peaceful water feature.
8. Pelot’s Point Natural Area – North Hero, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (40 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A 2.6-mile loop through pastures, woods, and along old railroad tracks. With opportunities to see wildlife and views of Lake Champlain, this is a peaceful, nature-immersed hike perfect for families and bird watchers.
9. Eagle Mountain – Milton, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~35 minutes (20 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A 2.1-mile round-trip hike with meadows, woods, and scenic views of Lake Champlain from the summit. This moderate trail is perfect for a quick, peaceful escape into nature with rewarding lake views.
10. Libby’s Look Trail – Bolton, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~35 minutes (25 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A 1.5-mile round-trip hike with stunning overlooks of Camel’s Hump and Bolton Valley. Though short, it’s a hidden gem for those looking for a quieter trail with fantastic fall foliage views.
11. Snake Mountain – Addison, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (35 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A 4-mile round-trip hike with expansive views of the Champlain Valley and Adirondack Mountains. This is an easy-to-moderate trail, making it a great option for a leisurely fall outing.
Fall in Vermont is a must-see, and these trails are the perfect way to experience it. From serene lakeside strolls to stunning mountain vistas, each hike offers a unique glimpse of the state’s natural beauty. Lace up your boots, soak in the foliage, and embrace the best of autumn in Northwest Vermont.
