Outdoor Recreation

Hiking

Two people pose for the camera on a narrow, dirt hiking path in the woods.
A family sits on the exposed rock of a mountain peak looking over the mountain valley on a sunny day.

Hiking in Vermont

Hundreds of miles of hiking trails, including five summits higher than 4,000 feet, offer boundless opportunities to explore Vermont’s rugged terrain. Take in Green Mountain views along recreation paths and rail trails, accessible boardwalks, and marked trails through the forest.

Three people hike along a boardwalk path through lush green woods.
Three people stand with the sun behind them at a stone summit.

Vermont’s Long Trail

The Long Trail is the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the U.S., spanning 272 miles that run the length of Vermont continuously from the Massachusetts border to the Canadian border.  

A boardwalk leads to a rugged mountain view in the fall.
An even, level gravel path next to a marsh on a sunny day.

Accessible Hikes in Vermont

Boardwalks, rail trails, and other accessible paths bring the beauty of Vermont’s summit views to everyone. Whether you drive up a toll road to take in the beauty of Vermont’s highest peak or see the rugged face of Smugglers Notch from a boardwalk, Vermont’s beauty is for every body 

The view from the top of a mountain with fields, a lake, and more mountains visible.
A person hikes through the forest in the summer with a baby on their back.

Vermont State Parks

In Vermont, 55 state parks are open year-round, offering easy access to trails and paths through Green Mountain woods. Many have accessible trails, too. To narrow down your hiking options, start at the park finder. 

Two people hike up a rocky path at the top of a mountain.

Find Trails in Vermont

TrailFinder points to important information like trails closures, difficulty level and nearby services.

A boardwalk trail passes by a cabin in the woods.
Yellow flowers bloom next to a trail with a mountain peak in the distance.

Leave No Trace

Keep the trails free and open to all by being a good trail steward and responsible hiker. This means planning ahead and taking caution to stay on the trail, especially in Vermont’s fragile alpine zones. Find out what to bring, where to camp, and what to do when you need to use the bathroom while on the trail. 

Background Texture
Background Texture

The Green Mountain Club

Green Mountain Club has been building and maintaining trails for over 100 years, including Vermont’s famous 272-mile Long Trail. 

Learn More about The Green Mountain Club
Background Texture
Background Texture

VERMONT STATE PARKS BROCHURE

The Vermont State Parks brochure is your guide to parks, amenities, activities, rentals, and how to best plan your Vermont state park visit. Order it by mail or view it online.

Get the Brochure about VERMONT STATE PARKS BROCHURE