Skip the Crowds: Explore Vermont’s 5 Quietest Trails and Parks This Month

As I grow older, I’ve started to seek out quieter experiences, where I can really savor each moment away from the constant buzz of daily life. That’s what draws me to hiking. It’s a chance to unplug, maybe get lost in my thoughts, and enjoy the present instead of worrying about the future. Vermont’s brimming with beautiful hikes – from challenging treks that take us to remote places to strolls through the woods. These quiet trails in Vermont are perfect if you want to retreat from the real world for a bit.

1. Abbey Pond Trail – Middlebury

Surround yourself with some of the awe-inspiring natural beauty for which Vermont is known on the Abbey Pond Trail, an out-and-back trail that meanders through Green Mountain National Forest. While the 4.3-mile trail scores a moderate rating, the challenges are more than worth it for the scenic beauty along the way. Hiking shoes, preferably waterproof for the creek crossings, are a must as you’ll travel along rocky terrain and deal with exposed tree roots. The trail begins with an incline, so be prepared for a bit of a workout. Along the way, you’ll pass cascading waterfalls, unique rock formations, wildflowers in the warmer months, and a charming footbridge.

2. Hilltop Loop Trail – Jericho

Sometimes we don’t have much time to explore, but we really need that fresh air and quick reset. At less than a mile, the Hilltop Loop Trail in Old Mill Park is short, sweet, and brimming with beauty. The kid-friendly trail, which allows leashed pooches, is picture-perfect in all four seasons. Several swimming holes sit along the path for those hot summer days. Likened to a walk through the woods, the Hilltop Loop Trail passes a river and streams and leads up stone stairs. If you’re not in a hurry, sit on a bench overlooking the water for a breather. As you’re hiking, listen for the sound of rushing water that leads to a little-known Vermont waterfall.

3. Deer Leap Mountain Trail – Killington

Some of the best views in Vermont await along the Deer Leap Mountain Trail at Giffords Woods State Park in Killington. But you’ll have to work a bit on this moderately challenging trail to see them. The five-mile trail features a few obstacles, including an elevation increase of 1,400 feet and some rocky terrain, making sturdy shoes essential. The highlight of the (leashed) dog-friendly trail is the views from the scenic overlook. While the views are simply breathtaking any time of the year, try to time at least one of your hikes to coincide with the peak of the fall foliage.

There is an entrance fee to Giffords Woods State Park.

4. Middlebury and Jackson Trail Loop – Middlebury

Earmark at least three hours for your journey along the 8.7-mile Middlebury and Jackson Trail Loop. The moderate, partially paved path wanders through wooded areas and fields, past vibrant wildflowers during the warmer months, and over a suspension bridge. If you bring a camera with you, stop in the middle of the bridge and snap photos of the water below and the trees around you. As you hike, you’ll pass a waterfall, go over a tiny footbridge, and by solar panels (yep, you read right.). Stay on the path and keep an eye out for poison ivy, which is prevalent along some parts of this dog-friendly trail. (Dogs must remain on a leash.)

5. Branch Pond Trail – East Arlington

If you really want to get away from it all and challenge yourself, you won’t find much better than the 15.4-mile Branch Pond Trail, an epic hike that will take you through Green Mountain National Forest. The out-and-back trail, which welcomes leashed dogs, is an all-day adventure, requiring around seven hours. Since you’ll be journeying through a wetland, you’ll deal with muddy and wet conditions, so dress appropriately. One of the highlights of the trail is Branch Pond, perfect for stopping for a break to enjoy the scenery.

What are your favorite quiet trails in Vermont? Let us know by filling out this nomination form. Why stop with the quietest trails in Vermont? Get out there and explore more of the best hiking trails in Vermont, too. Before heading out on your next adventure, slip into a pair of sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes.