Elmore VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Elmore, Vermont.
1. Elmore Mountain Fire Tower Trail
SUMMIT FIRE TOWER VIEWS
The Elmore Mountain Fire Tower Trail offers a moderately challenging hike of 1.7 miles one way, beginning at the Elmore State Park parking lot and ascending to the summit of Elmore Mountain. Along the way, hikers will pass a former cabin site before reaching the historic fire tower, which can be climbed for panoramic views of the Green Mountains and New Hampshire's Presidential Range. The trail is well-suited for those seeking a rewarding summit with scenic vistas.
2. Ridge Trail
RIDGE AND ROCK ADVENTURE
The Ridge Trail in Elmore State Park is a moderately difficult 2.3-mile one-way trail that winds from the parking lot up to the ridge of Elmore Mountain. This route passes by unique natural features like Balancing Rock and follows the ridge south to the summit and the fire tower. The trail can be combined with the Fire Tower Trail for a scenic loop hike with varied terrain and rewarding summit views.
3. Elmore Mountain Loop Trail
SCENIC LOOP CIRCUIT
The Elmore Mountain Loop Trail combines both the Fire Tower Trail and Ridge Trail for a 3.7-mile moderate loop in Elmore State Park. Hikers can enjoy forested paths, rocky outcrops, and a final climb to the summit and fire tower, making this loop a favorite for those wanting a diverse hiking experience. The loop is accessible from the main park entrance and offers excellent options for both families and avid hikers.
4. Nature Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WOODLAND WALK
The Nature Trail in Elmore State Park is a gentle, 0.5-mile loop ideal for families and visitors seeking a short, educational walk. This easy trail winds through mixed forest and offers interpretive signs about local flora and fauna. It's perfect for a brief stroll or for children to explore Vermont's natural environment.
5. Stowe Pinnacle Trail
ICONIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
The Stowe Pinnacle Trail is a moderately strenuous 3.7-mile round-trip hike leading to a rocky summit with sweeping views of the Green Mountains and the valley below. The trail features steep sections and rocky terrain, rewarding hikers with one of the best vistas in the Stowe area. This popular trail is a favorite for its memorable summit panorama and proximity to the charming town of Stowe.
6. Moss Glen Falls Trail
WATERFALL FOREST HIKE
The Moss Glen Falls Trail is an easy, family-friendly hike of about 0.5 miles each way that leads to one of Vermont's most beautiful waterfalls. The trail meanders through forested landscape and ends at a stunning 125-foot cascading waterfall. It's suitable for all ages and offers an excellent opportunity for photography and appreciation of natural beauty.
7. Sterling Pond Trail
ALPINE LAKE DESTINATION
The Sterling Pond Trail, located at Smugglers' Notch, is a moderate 2.1-mile hike ascending to Vermont's highest elevation trout pond. The trail features a steady climb through hardwood forest, opening up to the serene and picturesque Sterling Pond at the top. Hikers enjoy tranquil waters, fishing opportunities, and sweeping mountain views.
8. Mount Mansfield via Sunset Ridge Trail
HIGHEST PEAK CHALLENGE
The Sunset Ridge Trail is a challenging 3.3-mile ascent to the summit of Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak. This trail traverses open ridges with expansive views, alpine terrain, and striking rock formations, offering some of the best scenery in the state. The hike is best suited for experienced hikers seeking elevation gain and exceptional panoramas.
9. Worcester Mountain Trail
WORCESTER RANGE VIEWS
The Worcester Mountain Trail is a moderate to strenuous 2.9-mile one-way hike leading to the summit of Worcester Mountain in the Worcester Range. Hikers encounter steady ascent through dense forest with occasional rocky scrambles. The summit rewards with sweeping views over central Vermont and the Green Mountains.
10. Stowe Recreation Path
SCENIC TOWN GREENWAY
The Stowe Recreation Path is a 5.3-mile paved and crushed-stone trail winding through picturesque meadows, along rivers, and across charming bridges in Stowe. This easy, accessible path is ideal for walkers, runners, and cyclists seeking a leisurely outing with mountain views. It connects downtown Stowe to quiet countryside and is popular with visitors of all ages.