Starksboro VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Starksboro, Vermont.
1. Creekside Trail
LOCAL NATURE WALK
Creekside Trail in Starksboro offers visitors a scenic yet gentle walk through a mix of woodlands and fields. The trail is considered easy and is accessible to hikers of all ages and abilities, with parking available at the Cota field area. Its main highlights include peaceful creek views and well-maintained pathways ideal for a relaxed outdoor experience.
2. Mt. Ellen via Jerusalem Trail
CHALLENGING ALPINE VIEWS
Mt. Ellen via the Jerusalem Trail provides a strenuous hike through forested terrain leading to one of Vermont's highest peaks. The route is best suited to experienced hikers, with significant elevation gain and rugged sections. Hikers are rewarded with sweeping mountain vistas and the opportunity to connect with the Long Trail.
3. Theron Dean Shelter
BACKPACKING STOPOVER TRAIL
The trail to Theron Dean Shelter near Starksboro is part of a popular overnight backpacking route in the region. The hike is moderate in difficulty, traversing forested ridges and leading to a rustic shelter for overnight stays. Its highlights include quiet wilderness settings and close access to sections of the Long Trail.
4. Lincoln Gap to Appalachian Gap
RIDGE TRAVERSE ADVENTURE
The hike from Lincoln Gap to Appalachian Gap is a classic Green Mountain ridge traverse, stretching across diverse terrain. This challenging trail offers steep ascents and descents, making it ideal for seasoned hikers seeking panoramic views and alpine landscapes. Main highlights include summits like Mount Abraham and rugged highland forests.
5. Burrows Trail to Camel's Hump
ICONIC SUMMIT ASCENT
The Burrows Trail offers a direct and popular approach to the summit of Camel's Hump, Vermont's third highest mountain. Rated as moderate to difficult, this trail climbs steadily through dense woodland before opening up to rocky, alpine terrain at the summit. Hikers enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views and wildflower meadows near the peak.
6. Mount Abraham from Lincoln Gap
HIGH PEAK CLIMB
The Mount Abraham hike from Lincoln Gap is a well-traveled section of the Long Trail, renowned for its sweeping summit views. The journey is moderately difficult, featuring some steep segments and open ridgeline walking. The summit rewards hikers with vistas of the Green Mountains and Adirondacks beyond.
7. Mt. Philo State Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SUMMIT
Mt. Philo State Park is home to a short yet rewarding hike that leads to a summit overlook of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. The primary trail is rated easy to moderate and is a favorite among families and casual hikers. Its highlights include accessible picnic areas, wildlife sightings, and impressive sunset views.
8. Button Bay State Park Trails
LAKEFRONT NATURE PATHS
Button Bay State Park features gentle lakeside trails along the shores of Lake Champlain, providing a relaxed hiking experience. These easy paths wind through meadows and along the water, suitable for hikers of all ages. Highlights include birdwatching opportunities and views of unique limestone formations known as 'buttons' along the bay.
9. Allen Mountain
LONG DISTANCE CHALLENGE
Allen Mountain offers a challenging 18-mile trek for experienced hikers, traversing remote forests and rugged terrain. This difficult trail demands good endurance, with various elevation changes and scenic woodland stretches. The main highlights are the solitude of the route and sweeping views from high vantage points along the way.
10. Camel's Hump Trail
CLASSIC VERMONT PEAK
Camel's Hump Trail is one of Vermont's most famed hikes, leading to the distinctive, bare summit that gives the mountain its name. The trail is moderate to strenuous and features diverse ecological zones, from mixed hardwood forests to alpine tundra. Hikers are treated to dramatic summit panoramas and rare mountain flora.