Experience Vermont’s Vibrant Foliage and Breathtaking Scenery on These Must-Try Autumn Hikes

By Olivia N.,

Published on September 7, 2023

As autumn paints Vermont’s landscape with a breathtaking tapestry of fiery reds, golden yellows, and rustic oranges, outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers eagerly anticipate the annual transformation of the Green Mountain State. With its rolling hills, pristine lakes, and dense forests, Vermont offers some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the United States. What better way to immerse yourself in this vibrant season than by embarking on a hiking adventure? Here, we’ve compiled a list of the five best hikes around Vermont to experience the magic of autumn.

1. Mount Mansfield’s Sunset Ridge Trail

Town: Stowe Distance: Approximately 5.7 miles (round trip)

Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, provides a panoramic view that is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The Sunset Ridge Trail is a favorite among hikers for its challenging yet rewarding journey. As you ascend through a forest of maples and beeches, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys and peaks. By mid-September, the foliage begins to turn, creating an enchanting scene of crimson and gold. The summit offers the perfect spot for a picnic or simply to soak in the breathtaking sunset.

2. Camel’s Hump

Town: Huntington Distance: Approximately 4.2 miles (loop)

Camel’s Hump, with its distinctive double-humped profile, is another iconic Vermont peak. The Burrows Trail loop is a fantastic choice for a brisk autumn hike. As you wind your way up the mountain, the views become increasingly stunning, with Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks serving as a backdrop to the colorful foliage. In the fall, the alpine tundra on the summit is ablaze with crimson blueberry bushes and offers a surreal, otherworldly experience.

3. Mount Philo State Park

Town: Charlotte Distance: Approximately 1.3 miles (round trip)

For those seeking a shorter hike with equally impressive fall views, Mount Philo is a delightful choice. The ascent to the summit is relatively easy, making it suitable for hikers of all levels. The reward is a magnificent panorama of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks, framed by the vibrant hues of Vermont’s foliage. It’s an ideal spot for a family outing or a tranquil afternoon hike.

4. Stratton Mountain

Town: Stratton Distance: Approximately 5.4 miles (loop)

Stratton Mountain, known for its world-class skiing, transforms into a wonderland of color come autumn. The hike along the Stratton Mountain Trail takes you through a dense forest before opening up to a sweeping view from the fire tower. From this vantage point, you can see the Green Mountains in all their autumn glory, with an array of colors stretching as far as the eye can see.

5. Lye Brook Falls Trail

Town: Manchester Distance: Approximately 4.8 miles (round trip)

Lye Brook Falls Trail is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of Vermont’s woods during the fall season. The trail takes you through a serene forest, crossing streams and bridges along the way. The grand finale is the breathtaking Lye Brook Falls, a 125-foot waterfall surrounded by vibrant foliage, creating a picture-perfect autumn scene.

As you prepare to embark on these unforgettable hikes around Vermont, remember to check trail conditions, pack essential gear, and follow Leave No Trace principles to ensure the preservation of this natural beauty for generations to come. Vermont’s autumn splendor awaits, and these hikes offer an opportunity to be a part of nature’s grand spectacle. Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic of fall in the Green Mountain State!