This story originally appeared in Seven Days and has been edited by Hello Burlington
Burlington is where urban vibes and trailhead signs blend seamlessly. Right around the corner, you'll find trails perfect for a casual stroll or full day adventures. For those craving epic terrain, the vast Green Mountains are close by, ready for exploration and for those looking to stick close to the city, we've got you covered!
EASY DOES IT.
Nebraska Notch Trail, Underhill, Mount Mansfield
This 4.4-mile round tripper, some of which runs along the Long Trail, features gentle grades, wooded terrain and spectacular views of Lake Mansfield. Hike out to Taylor Lodge, a four-sided shelter that makes for an ideal lunch spot. "It's not too steep ever, so it's a great trail for families," says Potter. The path passes beaver ponds, so you're apt to see some wildlife, too. Potter says to plan on two to four hours, depending on your hiking speed.
Mount Philo State Park, Charlotte, VT
Mount Philo State Park is one of Vermont’s most relaxing, yet rewarding hikes. Located off of Route 7 in Charlotte, VT. This mountain is a capable trail for most adventurers, stretching only 3/4-mile to the summit and featuring a paved path for vehicles, this park is an excellent destination to explore Vermont’s fall foliage, autumn bird migrations, or sunsets over Lake Champlain. Situated atop of the mountain is a rustic lodge capable of seating up too 60 people, in addition to a small campground on the north side of the park.
HUFFING & PUFFING.
Burrows Trail, Huntington, Camel's Hump
"The nice thing about it is that it is a fairly moderate trail, but you actually get to summit one of our 4,000 footers," explains Potter of this five-mile hike up Vermont's third-highest peak. In addition to 360-degree views, "it has a sustained steepness," she continues. "But there are no real technical sections — no scrambling over big rocks." The trail is also blue-blazed and well traveled: "If you're not an expert in wilderness navigation, it's pretty straightforward," she s
ays. Camel's Hump is one of three Vermont peaks that boast rare, even endangered alpine flora — so look, but don't touch. "We emphasize that people stay on the trails and try to step on rocks," Potter explains. Plan on three to five hours, round trip.
OH, HELL NO.
Hell Brook Trail, Cambridge, Mount Mansfield
What, you thought a trail named Hell Brook would be easy? This short but steep hike ranks as one of the most difficult in Vermont. "It's only about three miles round trip, but it goes straight up," says Potter. Get ready for nonstop inclines, hand-over-hand scrambles, and giant rocks embedded with rebar and ladders to keep you from falling off the face of the Earth. "It can be slippery when it's wet," Potter warns — and it's pretty much always wet due to the brook that runs alongside the trail. "It's called Hell Brook for a reason," she adds. "It's exciting." The trail brings climbers to an open rock outcropping, Mansfield's "Adam's Apple," which connects to the Long Trail and the summit — the highest in Vermont. Potter says to plan on the equivalent of a five- to six-mile hike.
