10 Best Vermont Fall Hikes For 2025 -

For 2025, if you’re planning a hiking getaway, Vermont is hands down one of the best spots in the U.S. to catch peak foliage.

But here’s the thing—while Vermont has dozens of trails worth exploring, only a few truly deliver the best of the best fall hiking experience.

These are the trails that combine sweeping views, unforgettable landscapes, and that perfect autumn vibe. Let’s dive into the ultimate list.

Why Vermont in Fall is a Hiker’s Paradise

Vermont isn’t just another New England state in autumn—it’s basically the poster child for fall.

Between late September and mid-October, the Green Mountains and valleys transform into a living canvas of color. What makes it even better?

Elevation variety: From family-friendly hills to rugged peaks, there’s a hike for every skill level.
Diverse scenery: Lakes, gorges, waterfalls, and ridgelines all wrapped in autumn colors.
Cool hiking weather: Say goodbye to summer humidity—fall hiking here is crisp, refreshing, and perfect for long treks.

Best Vermont Fall Hikes 2025

1. Mount Mansfield – Vermont’s Tallest Peak

At 4,393 feet, Mount Mansfield is Vermont’s highest point and a must-hike in fall.

The “ridge walk” gives you panoramic views across the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, and even the Adirondacks on a clear day.

Distance & Time: 4.5–6 miles round trip, 4–6 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Available at Underhill State Park (fills up fast)
Nearby Stay: Topnotch Resort in Stowe for a luxury base
Local Event: Stowe Foliage Arts Festival (early October)

2. Camel’s Hump – Rugged Beauty at Its Best

Arguably Vermont’s most iconic peak, Camel’s Hump stands tall and wild.

The rocky summit offers a 360-degree view of rolling mountains painted in fiery reds and oranges. Unlike Mansfield, there are no ski lifts nearby—just pure wilderness vibes.

Distance & Time: 5.8 miles round trip, 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Burrows Trailhead lot (limited space)
Nearby Stay: Huntington House Inn
Local Event: Camel’s Hump Challenge (September charity hike event)

3. Mount Pisgah – Lake Willoughby’s Crown Jewel

Imagine standing on a cliff overlooking one of New England’s most beautiful lakes, with fall foliage wrapping around it like a golden scarf.

That’s Mount Pisgah. The trail isn’t too tough, and the payoff is breathtaking.

Distance & Time: 4.1 miles round trip, 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: South end and North end trailheads both have small lots
Nearby Stay: Willoughvale Inn on Lake Willoughby
Local Event: Kingdom Trails Fall Foliage Bike Festival

Pro Tip: Pair this hike with a drive through Willoughby Gap—it’s one of the most photogenic roads in Vermont.

4. Stowe Pinnacle – Moderate Trail, Big Rewards

For a shorter but oh-so-satisfying hike, Stowe Pinnacle delivers. It’s a moderate trail that packs a serious punch with wide-open views of Stowe Valley, framed perfectly in fall colors.

Distance & Time: 3.6 miles round trip, 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Pinnacle Meadow lot (fee applies)
Nearby Stay: Green Mountain Inn in Stowe village
Local Event: Stowe Oktoberfest

Insider Tip: Bring a picnic—this is one of the best lunch-with-a-view spots in the state.

5. Mount Philo – Family-Friendly Foliage Spot

If you’re looking for a hike the whole family can handle, Mount Philo is a gem.

It’s Vermont’s oldest state park and offers a quick climb (or drive) to a summit with sweeping views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.

Distance & Time: 1.9 miles round trip, 1–2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Ample parking at Mount Philo State Park
Nearby Stay: Basin Harbor Resort on Lake Champlain
Local Event: Vergennes Fall Festival

6. Mount Ascutney – Fire Tower Views

Located in Windsor, Mount Ascutney combines rugged terrain with historic charm. The fire tower at the summit gives you a panoramic view that stretches into New Hampshire.

Distance & Time: 5.6 miles round trip, 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Multiple trailhead parking areas in Ascutney State Park
Nearby Stay: Snapdragon Inn in Windsor
Local Event: Harpoon Octoberfest (Windsor brewery event)

7. Quechee Gorge Trail – Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon”

Short, sweet, and spectacular—Quechee Gorge is perfect if you want a lighter hike but still crave that wow factor.

The gorge looks stunning when framed by autumn trees. Bonus? It’s close to the town of Woodstock, one of Vermont’s most charming fall destinations.

Distance & Time: 2 miles round trip, 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Large lot near the bridge
Nearby Stay: Woodstock Inn & Resort
Local Event: Woodstock Apples & Crafts Fair

8. Lye Brook Falls Trail – Waterfall + Foliage Combo

If you love waterfalls, this one’s for you. Lye Brook Falls near Manchester is one of the tallest in Vermont.

Distance & Time: 4.6 miles round trip, 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Small trailhead lot on Lye Brook Access Road
Nearby Stay: Kimpton Taconic Hotel in Manchester
Local Event: Manchester Fall Arts Festival

9. Mount Hunger – For the Adventurers

A steeper, tougher climb than most, Mount Hunger is for hikers who want a challenge. But the reward?

Insane views of the Green Mountains stretching out in every direction.

Distance & Time: 4 miles round trip, 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Trailhead lot in Middlesex
Nearby Stay: Capitol Plaza Hotel in Montpelier
Local Event: Montpelier Fall Foliage Festival

10. Belvidere Mountain – Remote and Peaceful

If solitude is your thing, Belvidere Mountain is the hidden gem you’ve been looking for. Far fewer crowds than Mansfield or Camel’s Hump.

Distance & Time: 6.8 miles round trip, 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Long Trail crossing lot in Eden
Nearby Stay: Highland Lodge in Greensboro
Local Event: Lamoille County Fall Festival

Planning Your Vermont Fall Adventure

The best part about Vermont hiking? The cute towns, local food, and fall activities you can tie into your trip. After hiking, you can:

Sip cider in Woodstock.
Explore craft breweries in Stowe.
Chase covered bridges in Burlington.
Go apple picking or stop at a roadside stand for fresh cider donuts.

Conclusion

Whether you’re conquering the rugged Camel’s Hump or strolling through Quechee Gorge, these hikes represent the very best the state has to offer in 2025.

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10 Best Vermont Fall Hikes For 2025

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