Easy and breezy … if the next word you’re thinking is “beautiful,” then we’ve got you covered. These 10 best hikes in Vermont are great summer excursions and are guaranteed to please. Time to lace up those hiking boots, folks. Let’s get out in the fresh air for some rewarding treks that will stretch those muscles! Let’s take a look at these easy hikes in Vermont that provide stunning views of Vermont’s landscape.

1. Mt. Tom, Woodstock
Mount Tom, Mt Tom, Woodstock, VT 05091, USA
Alltrails/Max Koz
The Faulkner trail takes you through the woods with something new at every turn. It's well marked and has lovely views of the town of Woodstock from the summit.
2. Mt. Ascutney, Windsor
Mount Ascutney, Mt Ascutney, Windsor, VT 05089, USA
Alltrails/Bri Lawrence
Mt. Ascutney has loads to see and do, and one of our favorite hikes here is the Weathersfield Trail. You'll find waterfalls and a viewing tower, not to mention that you'll be hiking on a non-active volcano for an added cool factor.
3. Quechee Gorge, Quechee
Quechee Gorge, Hartford, VT 05001, USA
Flickr/Gerald Azenaro
This 165-foot drop is known as Vermont's Little Grand Canyon, and the look down is quite breathtaking. But the hike to the bottom is quite easy and it will give you a whole new vantage point of the gorge from the bottom looking up.
4. Robert Frost Interpretive Trail, Ripton
Robert Frost Interpretive Trail, Ripton, VT 05766, USA
Alltrails/Jason Oh
This easy, one-mile hike has poems written by Vermont's most beloved poet, Robert Frost, along the way.
5. Killington Peak, Killington
Killington Peak Lodge, 4763 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751, USA
Alltrails/Jamie Gay
Make your way to some fantastic views from the top as you hike on many of the ski trails on Killington Mountain. If you normally ski down in the winter, climbing up in the summer is a completely new adventure.

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6. Shaw Mountain Natural Area, West Haven
Shaw Mountain Natural Area, 1635-555 Money Hole Rd, Benson, VT 05743, USA
Alltrails/Crazybout Vermont
This 2.1-mile loop is a calm and relaxing trek. It's perfect for bird watching and getting in touch with nature.
7. Mt. Elmore, Elmore
Elmore State Park Parking Lot, 56 Patch Ln, Wolcott, VT 05680, USA
Flickr/Charles Wohlers
Most people head to these hills for the wonderful fire tower views. But don't miss the balancing rock along the way. It's certainly something you don't see every day! Check out the Mt. Elmore Trail for more information.
8. Mt. Olga, Wilmington
Mount Olga, Mt Olga, Wilmington, VT 05363, USA
Mt.Olga Trailhead, Unnamed Road, Wilmington, VT 05363, USA
Alltrails/Marie Rehm-Brandt
This 1.6-mile loop hike has a big view payoff. Put aside your fear of heights and climb to the top of the fire tower for a spectacular view.
9. Mt. Philo, Charlotte
Mt. Philo State Park, 5425 Mt Philo Rd, Charlotte, VT 05445, USA
Alltrails/Brian Krulish
This family-friendly hike has a lovely picnic area at the top with spectacular views. Pack a lunch and set aside plenty of time to enjoy it!
10. Mount Independence, Orwell
Mount Independence, Mt Independence, Orwell, VT 05760, USA
Alltrails/Jehosephat Robespierre
Calling all history buffs! Mount Independence was named for the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and soldiers were stationed here during the Revolutionary War. There are a few trails here that range from 0.6 to 2.5 miles, and the hike from the Blue Trail to the Orange trail has the most scenic views.

All of these short trails offer amazing views and are just the right about of challenge. Let us know what you think about these hikes. We would love to hear your feedback in the comments.

For more great summer hiking in Vermont, check out these 18 short hikes that are fun for all.

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Best hikes in Vermont

Luke | April 04, 2022

What are the most beautiful hikes in Vermont?

One of the most gorgeous hikes in Vermont is the trek up Mt. Mansfield, which provides some of the most spectacular views in our state. It's not for the faint-hearted though; the loop is over seven miles in length and there are plenty of inclines as well. If you are interested in hiking Mt. Mansfield, we also highly recommend taking the Sunset Ridge Trail. This trail is easily accessible from Underhill State Park and is well marked. Some other beautiful hikes in Vermont are Mount Pisgah Trail, Camel’s Hump Trail, and Lye Brook Falls Trail.

Which other hikes in Vermont are short and sweet?

Finding short-and-sweet hikes is one thing, but finding easy hikes with great views is another thing. If you are looking for more short and easy hikes to explore, we have compiled a great list of trails to check out. If you are interested in finding out more about these easy and enjoyable hikes in Vermont, take a look at this list of nine wonderful short and sweet hikes in Vermont. These hikes offer a beautiful view at the end to reward you for the journey. All of the hikes on this list are great for the whole family. Happy trails!

Which state parks should I visit in Vermont?

Vermont state parks are some of the best you could possibly find. Some are better for longer stays and camping, while others are better for shorter trips. But, for the best overall state parks to visit, here are our picks to check out: Smugglers Notch State Park, Mt. Philo State Park, Emerald Lake State Park, Quechee Gorge State Park, and Jamaica State Park. You really cannot go wrong with any of these places. Whether you’re looking to go swimming, hiking, mountain biking, or exploring, all of these state parks have something for everyone.

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