September in Vermont feels like a sweet spot for hikers. The air turns crisp, the bugs are gone, and the leaves start showing their first golden touches of fall.
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to hit the Green Mountains, this is it.
But with so many trails to choose from, where should you go? I’ve narrowed it down to the best of the best Vermont hikes for September—the kind that give you epic views, fiery foliage, and a real taste of New England in autumn.
Table of Contents
1. Mount Mansfield – Vermont’s Highest Peak
Location & Access: Near Stowe, starting from Underhill State Park.
Trail Stats: 5–7 miles round trip | Difficult | 4–6 hours.
Standing tall at 4,393 feet, Mount Mansfield is the highest peak in Vermont—and September is when it really shines.
The summit ridge gives you wide-open views stretching into New York and New Hampshire, with early foliage glowing across the valleys.
Nearby Attractions: After the climb, head into Stowe Village for a cider donut or drive through Smuggler’s Notch, which is stunning this time of year.
2. Camel’s Hump – The Iconic Vermont Summit
Location & Access: Between Waterbury and Huntington.
Trail Stats: 6 miles round trip | Moderate to Strenuous | 4–5 hours.
Camel’s Hump is the mountain you’ve probably seen on Vermont postcards. The rocky summit is unforgettable, and in September, the views are painted in red and gold.
Nearby Attractions: Grab ice cream at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury or take a slow drive along the Green Mountain Byway.
3. Mount Pisgah – Lake Willoughby Views
Location & Access: Westmore, overlooking Lake Willoughby.
Trail Stats: 4–5 miles round trip | Moderate | 3–4 hours.
Mount Pisgah is all about water and color. From the top, you look straight down at Lake Willoughby, framed by cliffs and lined with fiery September leaves.
It’s easily one of the most dramatic views in Vermont.
Nearby Attractions: Take a dip in Lake Willoughby if it’s still warm enough or wander through the Northeast Kingdom’s backroads.
4. Stowe Pinnacle – Short but Scenic
Location & Access: Just outside Stowe.
Trail Stats: 3.6 miles round trip | Moderate | 2–3 hours.
Not every great hike has to take all day. Stowe Pinnacle is proof. In under two hours, you can be standing on a rocky outcrop looking over the Green Mountains and Stowe Valley.
September mornings here are especially magical with mist rising through the hills.
Nearby Attractions: Stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill for fresh cider and donuts—or poke around downtown Stowe’s little shops.
5. Mount Abraham – Fall Foliage Favorite
Location & Access: Lincoln Gap, near Bristol.
Trail Stats: 5.2 miles round trip | Moderate | 3–4 hours.
If you want a front-row seat to Vermont’s fall colors, Mount Abraham delivers. It’s one of the easiest 4,000-footers in the state, but the views over the Mad River Valley and Green Mountains are nothing short of spectacular.
Nearby Attractions: Pair the hike with a stop at Bristol Falls or treat yourself at Lincoln Peak Winery nearby.
6. Mount Hunger – A Challenging Climb
Location & Access: Worcester Range, near Waterbury.
Trail Stats: 4.4 miles round trip | Difficult | 4–5 hours.
Mount Hunger doesn’t play around. It’s steep, rugged, and relentless—but the payoff is a 360° view that feels wild and raw.
On a clear September day, you can spot Mount Washington in New Hampshire and even glimpses of Canada.
Nearby Attractions: Cool off at Waterbury Reservoir or check out the famous Alchemist Brewery for a post-hike pint.
7. Killington Peak via Bucklin Trail – Second Highest in Vermont
Location & Access: Near Rutland, trailhead on Wheelerville Road.
Trail Stats: 7.2 miles round trip | Difficult | 5–7 hours.
Killington is known for skiing, but the Bucklin Trail to the summit is a fall gem. It’s a long hike, but the views are wide open and the ridgeline feels like a colorful wave of trees rolling out in every direction.
Nearby Attractions: Rutland’s downtown has great food spots, and if you want more adventure, the Long Trail crosses right here.
FAQs About Vermont Hiking in September
Is September a good time to hike in Vermont?
Yes. Cool weather, fewer bugs, and the start of fall colors make it one of the best months.
Do I need permits for these hikes?
Most are free, though some trailheads in state parks may have small day-use fees.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome on most trails but keep them leashed.
Conclusion
Vermont in September is like hiking through a painting—cool mountain air, fiery leaves, and trails that reward you at every turn.
Whether you’re chasing the tallest peak at Mount Mansfield or squeezing in a quick hike at Stowe Pinnacle, these trails are the ones that stand out.
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