The best walks and hikes in Orleans County

Yes, there are several easier options, especially around the lakes. For a gentle walk with nice scenery, consider the Southwest Cove Beach loop from Westmore. It's a relatively flat 2-mile (3.3 km) trail that's perfect for a casual outing.

For a family-friendly adventure that isn't too strenuous but still offers rewarding views, the Lake View loop from Mount Hor Trail Access Parking is a great choice. It's a short 2-mile (3.2 km) loop with minimal climbing, making it manageable for younger hikers.

Many trails in Vermont's state parks and forests are dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash and under your control at all times. Trails within Willoughby State Forest, such as those around Mount Pisgah, are popular with dog owners. Always check specific park regulations before you go and be prepared to clean up after your pet.

Orleans County offers some demanding climbs for experienced hikers. For a significant challenge with substantial elevation gain, the Jay Peak Summit Marker – Big Jay loop from Jay State Forest is a tough 5.4-mile (8.7 km) route that will test your endurance and reward you with incredible views.

The prime hiking season is from late spring to early fall (May through October). Summer offers lush green forests, while autumn provides spectacular fall foliage, particularly from late September to mid-October. Winter hiking is possible with proper gear like snowshoes or microspikes, but be prepared for snow and ice, especially at higher elevations.

While the region is better known for its lakes and mountain views, some trails may feature smaller cascades and streams, especially after rainfall. The area around Jay Peak has numerous brooks. For a guaranteed waterfall experience, you might explore local parks, but the main hiking routes focus more on summit and lake scenery.

Lake Willoughby is flanked by two mountains, offering stunning vistas. Besides the popular Mount Pisgah, you can get a different perspective on the View of Lake Willoughby – View from Mount Pisgah loop from Westmore. This longer 6.9-mile (11.1 km) hike provides multiple viewpoints of the lake's fjord-like landscape.

Yes, you can combine hiking with camping. Crystal Lake State Park and Pageant Park offer campsites near hiking areas. Willoughby State Forest also has camping facilities, allowing you to stay overnight and get an early start on trails leading up Mount Hor or Mount Pisgah.

You can explore over 15 curated hiking routes in Orleans County on komoot, ranging from easy lakeside strolls to moderate mountain climbs. The area is primarily defined by trails within state forests like Jay State Forest and Willoughby State Forest.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the panoramic views from summits like Jay Peak and Mount Pisgah, the dramatic scenery around Lake Willoughby, and the well-maintained paths through the forests.

Most hiking trails in state forests like Willoughby State Forest and Jay State Forest are free to access. However, some state parks, such as Crystal Lake State Park, may charge a day-use fee for entry, which typically includes access to parking, facilities, and trails within the park boundaries.

For accessible outdoor recreation, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail and the Beebe Spur Rail Trail are excellent options. These are relatively flat, wide, multi-use paths with hard-packed surfaces suitable for wheelchairs, offering scenic views without the difficult terrain of mountain trails.