15 Epic Vermont Hikes With Real Views And Zero Hype

Forget the overhyped tourist trails that go nowhere interesting. Vermont has better options with real-deal hikes and no influencer drama. These spots don’t beg for attention; they just deliver. If you’ve been craving fresh air and views that don’t need editing, you’re in the right place. Here is the list of 15 hikes that stay with you long after the trail ends.

Mount Mansfield Loop

Mount Mansfield Loop reaches 4,395 feet, making it the highest peak in Vermont. This trail includes an alpine tundra and a chance to stand on “The Chin.” It’s part of the historic Long Trail. On clear days, hikers can see all the way to New Hampshire, New York, and Canada.

Camel’s Hump Summit Trail

At 4,083 feet, Camel’s Hump is Vermont’s third-highest mountain and is easily recognized by its hump-like shape. The summit is undeveloped and offers a raw, natural experience. This is especially popular for sunrise hikes. The area also supports rare alpine plant life, which adds ecological significance as well as scenic beauty.

Sterling Pond Via Smugglers’ Notch

Climb through Smugglers’ Notch to reach Sterling Pond, set high in the mountains and frequently wrapped in mist. As Vermont’s highest alpine pond, the quiet here is powerful. Moose leave tracks in the soft earth, and the trail links up with the Long Trail to provide an extended route for adventurous hikers.

Mount Pisgah South Trail

Mount Pisgah South Trail features dramatic cliffs and stunning views of Lake Willoughby, known as Vermont’s “fjord.” In the fall, vibrant colors illuminate the terrain while peregrine falcons soar overhead. Find a rocky perch, pause, and let the peaceful surroundings recharge your spirit with every breathtaking overlook.

Mount Olga Fire Tower Trail

Begin at Molly Stark State Park and follow the loop trail through the quiet hardwood forest. Path is gentle,  At the top, a restored fire tower offers panoramic views of southern Vermont. Time your hike for autumn—the fall colors here make the tower climb worth it. 

Mount Abraham Via Lincoln Gap

This doesn’t draw the crowds, but it sure delivers the views. Mount Abraham is Vermont’s fifth-highest peak and provides full-circle summit views worth the climb. Named for Abraham Lincoln, the trail features odd little krummholz trees up top. If When Camel’s Hump gets busy, Mount Abraham offers a peaceful hike with equally impressive views.

Stowe Pinnacle Trail

A steep yet peaceful climb, Stowe Pinnacle Trail rewards hikers with breathtaking open skies and endless views. From the summit, you can see Mount Mansfield and the Worcester Range stretching across the horizon, framed by spring flowers along the way. Take deep breaths and bring your dog; just outside Stowe, a magical experience awaits.

Lye Brook Falls Trail

Want to see one of Vermont’s tallest waterfalls without scaling a mountain? Lye Brook Falls Trail is your go-to. This 125-foot waterfall is located in the quiet Lye Brook Wilderness. You’ll walk along an old logging road, spot salamanders and unique mushrooms, and, in winter, enjoy the stunning ice formations.

Mount Equinox Via Blue Summit Trail

When you take on Vermont’s tallest Taconic peak with the Blue Summit Trail, you can expect a steady 2,800-foot climb over 3 miles through mostly shaded woods. The summit delivers panoramic views and a serene monastery. There’s a road to the top, but hiking offers more rewards. But don’t forget to wear grippy shoes and bring extra water.

Mount Ascutney Via Weathersfield Trail

Climbing Mount Ascutney reminds visitors how layered nature can be. Each step reveals something new, like a waterfall, a rock’s history, or a silent glider ready for flight. The trail rewards the journey with panoramic views from a summit fire tower. In autumn, the terrain becomes a colorful canvas worth every uphill push.

Hamilton Falls Trail

Start inside Jamaica State Park and follow the West River Trail system to find Hamilton Falls—a 125-foot cascade hidden deep in the trees. The trail is easygoing and scenic, ideal for a relaxed half-day hike. Though the waterfall stuns, currents run strong, so enjoy the view without getting in.

Elmore Mountain Fire Tower Trail

The Elmore Mountain Fire Tower Trail offers a classic visit through mossy boulders and quiet woods. It leads to a historic tower with stunning 360-degree views, including the wide Worcester Range. After the climb, cool off with a dip in Lake Elmore below the summit, perfect for refreshing yourself.

Thundering Brook Falls Boardwalk

If you’re near Killington and want a quick but stunning nature fix, this boardwalk delivers. Thundering Brook Falls drops 125 feet and is super easy to reach. It’s part of the Appalachian Trail, totally ADA-accessible, and ideal for a casual stroll, bird spotting, or snapping waterfall shots.

Sunset Ridge Trail To Mount Mansfield

Start at Underhill State Park and take the Sunset Ridge Trail to reach Vermont’s highest point. It is the most scenic route, with sweeping views all along its open ridgeline. Summer hikers can snack on wild blueberries. Evening hikes feature stunning light—true to the trail’s name, sunsets here are worth the climb.

Deer Leap Overlook Trail

All great view starts with a few steady steps, and this trail delivers completely. Deer Leap rises gently, guiding hikers to a cliff once known as a place of flight. Today, it’s for awe and reflection. The views of Killington and Pico Peak stretch wide, especially magical when the sky turns to gold.