The best walks and hikes around Chittenden

The Killington Peak via Long Trail offers a classic Vermont hiking experience, immersing you in the lush forests of the Green Mountains before culminating in spectacular panoramic views. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from moderate forest paths to steep, rocky sections and even some scrambling near the summit. The reward for this challenging journey is the expansive vista from Killington Peak Summit, where you can see for miles across Vermont and beyond.

Planning your hike requires some preparation, as this is a difficult route with significant elevation gain. The trailhead is accessible by car, but parking can fill up quickly, so an early start is recommended. Always check weather conditions before heading out, as the summit can be exposed, and carry enough water and snacks for the roughly 6-hour duration.

This trail is notable for its connection to both the Long Trail and the Appalachian Trail, making it a significant point for long-distance trekkers. Killington Peak is Vermont's second-highest summit, standing at 4,229 feet, and near the top, you'll find Cooper Lodge, a four-sided shelter, and a lodge with amenities, which can also be reached by gondola during certain seasons.

This section of the Long Trail, running from US Route 4 to South Park Road, offers a true taste of Vermont's Green Mountains. You'll hike through dense hardwood forests, navigating a path that's often rugged with roots and rocks underfoot. While it doesn't summit major peaks, the trail follows the contours of the mountains, providing a classic "footpath in the wilderness" feel and occasional westward views.

Expect a moderate 5.0-mile (8.0 km) hike with 775 feet (236 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 19 minutes. Parking for the Long Trail US Route 4 trailhead is generally available, but be aware that the South Park Road end has limited parking and restrictions due to private land. Always check local conditions and plan your access points carefully before you go.

This particular segment is notable as it's where the Long Trail, the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States, officially diverges from the Appalachian Trail. The Long Trail itself inspired the Appalachian Trail, and this section showcases its wild, mountainous character, especially compared to its southern portions. It's a great way to experience a piece of hiking history.

The Cadwell Trail in Pittsford, Vermont, offers a delightful journey through varied landscapes, perfect for a relaxed nature walk. You'll wander from open woods into expansive fields, often with marshland and Otter Creek in view, and pass beneath old-growth trees. The path meanders alongside a large grassy field with a white barn on a hill, and later follows Furnace Brook until it reaches the historic Cooley Covered Bridge, providing a charming mix of scenery.

This easy 2.3-mile (3.7 km) hike, with only 83 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 58 minutes to complete, making it highly accessible for families. The Cooley Covered Bridge serves as a notable trailhead, and the trail is generally suitable for year-round enjoyment, though spring and fall offer prime wildlife viewing and foliage.

Part of the larger Pittsford Trail Network, the Cadwell Trail is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and spotting creatures like frogs, turtles, and deer. Its diverse ecosystems, including marshy areas and a lagoon, connect to other routes like the Meadow Loop, providing options for extended exploration within the region.

If you're seeking a peaceful, easy hike with abundant wildlife, the Lefferts Pond Trail is a wonderful choice. This 0.7-mile (1.2 km) route offers serene pond views as it gently winds through mixed woodlands, crossing wooden footbridges and passing an old milldam. With only 13 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, it's a leisurely 18-minute walk that feels like a true escape into nature, perfect for all ages and fitness levels.

Located in the Green Mountain National Forest, the trail is easily accessible and dogs are permitted on a leash. The best time to visit is often early morning for prime wildlife viewing, though the trail is enjoyable throughout the day. Since motorized boats are restricted on Lefferts Pond, you can expect a quiet and calm environment, enhancing your natural experience.

Lefferts Pond is a haven for wildlife, making it a prime spot for birdwatching, especially for migrating warblers in May and September. Keep an eye out for moose, otter, beaver, and mink, particularly during quieter times. The area's historical elements, like the old milldam, add another layer of interest to this tranquil wetlands ecosystem.

The Pico Peak via Sherburne Pass Trail offers a diverse hiking experience, starting with sun-dappled forest floors adorned with wildflowers and small mountain streams. As you ascend, the terrain shifts to steeper switchbacks through dense coniferous forests and mossy ground, leading you to the rustic Pico Shelter. The ultimate reward is the summit of Pico Peak, where you'll be treated to stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding Green Mountains, including Killington and the Adirondacks.

This moderate 8.7-mile (13.9 km) hike involves a significant 2165 feet (660 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 4 hours and 41 minutes. The trail is best hiked between April and October, though winter hiking is possible when the ski resort is closed. Parking is available at the Sherburne Pass lot, but it can fill up quickly on busy days, so an early start is recommended. Trekking poles are a good idea for stability on the steep and rocky sections.

Pico Peak is the sixth highest peak in Vermont and a notable inclusion on the New England Hundred Highest hiking list, making this route a significant achievement for many hikers. The trail leads directly to the ski patrol lodge and summit lift at the top, offering a unique blend of wilderness and resort infrastructure. Autumn is particularly spectacular for the vibrant fall foliage.