Stretching like a green spine through the heart of Vermont, the Green Mountains are a haven for hikers, campers, skiers, and anyone who loves the outdoors. Home to rugged peaks, dense forests, sparkling lakes, and the famous Long Trail, the Green Mountains offer year-round adventures and some of the most iconic scenery in New England.                                                   Scenic Nature Escapes Near N.Y.C.

Here’s your guide to exploring the Green Mountains of Vermont — whether you’re coming for a day hike, a camping weekend, or a full wilderness getaway.

 Why Visit the Green Mountains?

The Green Mountains are Vermont’s most prominent mountain range and the namesake of the state itself (Vermont means “green mountain” in French). These ancient peaks are part of the Appalachians, and they deliver a perfect mix of natural beauty, accessibility, and unspoiled wilderness.

With peaks over 4,000 feet, charming small towns, and a wealth of trails and campsites, the Green Mountains are a dream destination for outdoor lovers in every season.

 Best Hikes in the Green Mountains

From easy strolls to challenging climbs, the Green Mountains have something for everyone.

 Top Trails & Peaks:

• Mount Mansfield (4,393 ft)
  ? Vermont’s highest peak — climb to the “chin” for incredible 360° views.
  Difficulty: Strenuous — ~5–7 miles round trip.
  Also accessible via the Auto Toll Road in summer or ski trails in winter.
• Camel’s Hump (4,083 ft)
  ? Iconic, rocky summit with sweeping vistas of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and the White Mountains.
  Difficulty: Strenuous — ~5–6 miles round trip.
• Killington Peak (4,235 ft)
  ? A moderate-to-challenging hike with views stretching into Canada on a clear day.
• Stratton Mountain (3,940 ft)
  ? Famous as the birthplace of the idea for both the Long Trail and the Appalachian Trail.
  Difficulty: Moderate — ~7 miles round trip.

 The Long Trail

The Long Trail is America’s oldest long-distance hiking trail, running 273 miles along the spine of the Green Mountains from Massachusetts to Canada.

• Perfect for multi-day backpacking trips or short section hikes.
• Shelters & campsites spaced along the trail make overnight trips easy.
• Some sections overlap with the Appalachian Trail.
  

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   Drone Use: Know Before You Fly

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⛺ Camping & Lodging

Camping in the Green Mountains is plentiful and varied:

• State Park Campgrounds
• • Popular parks like Smugglers’ Notch, Gifford Woods, and Underhill offer tent and RV sites.
• Backcountry Shelters
• • The Long Trail and other areas have lean-tos and primitive sites for thru-hikers.
• Cabins & Lodges
• • Cozy inns and ski lodges in nearby towns like Stowe, Killington, and Manchester.

❄️ Year-Round Adventures

✅ Spring: Wildflowers, waterfalls at full flow, and fewer crowds.
✅ Summer: Perfect hiking & camping weather — lush and green.
✅ Fall: Vermont’s famous foliage season — brilliant reds, oranges, and golds light up the hillsides.
✅ Winter: Some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the East at resorts like Stowe, Killington, and Sugarbush.

 Tips for Visiting the Green Mountains

✔️ Check trail conditions — mud season (late spring) can make some trails tricky.
✔️ Bring layers — weather can change quickly at higher elevations.
✔️ Carry plenty of water & snacks — especially on strenuous hikes.
✔️ Leave no trace — help keep Vermont’s wilderness pristine.
✔️ Plan ahead — campsites & lodges can book up during peak fall foliage season.

 Don’t Miss

• Sunrise from the summit of Camel’s Hump
• The rocky alpine zone atop Mount Mansfield
• Autumn colors reflected in one of the Green Mountains’ lakes or ponds
• A quiet moment on the Long Trail, surrounded by Vermont’s deep forests

Why the Green Mountains

With their rugged charm, breathtaking views, and endless trails, the Green Mountains are the perfect place to escape, explore, and recharge. Whether you’re climbing to a summit, camping under the stars, skiing fresh powder, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, Vermont’s mountains deliver unforgettable experiences in every season.

So grab your boots, your camera, and your sense of adventure — and discover why the Green Mountains of Vermont have been inspiring explorers for centuries. ✨