The GMC's Long Trail Guide and Day Hiker's Guide to Vermont describe nearly all of Vermont 's hiking trails. In the Long Trail Guide, you will find detailed maps and descriptions of the Long Trail System and the Appalachian Trail in Vermont, suggested day hikes, shelter descriptions, public campgrounds near the trail, and snowshoeing and skiing suggestions. The Day Hiker's Guide  describes more than 150 trails to mountains, scenic ponds and waterfalls, and nature trails in the Green Mountains and beyond.   

Northern Region

Mount Hor – Lake Willoughby  Reminiscent of a fjord, Lake Willoughby is caught between the cliffs of Mounts Hor and Pisgah. From the summit lookout of Mount Hor you will catch a glimpse of the whole lake as well as ten small ponds, Hazen's Notch, Burke Mountain, and other peaks. You will find this hike in the Day Hiker's Guide to Vermont .

Lake Mansfield Trail – Nebraska Notch, Stowe This is a short, but sometimes steep, climb offers views of the northern wall of Nebraska Notch, a large beaver pond and a cirque (a scooped-out valley left by a glacier)---and, as a bonus, a fine view of Lake Mansfield from Taylor Lodge. Or, take a longer hike through Nebraska Notch all the way from Stowe to Underhill, or vice versa. You will find this hike in the Long Trail Guide.

Waterbury Trail Mount Hunger, Waterbury Mount Hunger is a heavily wooded, undeveloped mountain with a bald summit. It is a steady, steep climb but well worth it. On a clear day, you will see spectacular views of Mount Mansfield, Camel's Hump, and the White Mountains in New Hampshire . Near the summit, a short side trip takes you to White Rock Mountain.

Southern Region

Ledges Overlook - Townshend  From the ledges, look down on the Townshend Reservoir and dam, a covered bridge, and Bald Mountain . This is the only trail on this list that is marked with Army Corps of Engineers blazes (yellow and green).  You will find this hike in the Day Hiker's Guide to Vermont.  

Wilmington-Somerset Trails – Wilmington  This system of trails, maintained by the New England Power Company, travels alongside reservoirs and rivers with trails leading up Haystack Mountain and Mount Snow .  You will find these trails in the Day Hiker’s Guide to Vermont .  

Harmon Hill – Bennington  Hiking south on the Long Trail from Route 9, you will ascend a steep rock staircase that may make this hike a challenge. But the views from the top of Harmon Hill make the steep climb worth the effort. You will find this hike in the Long Trail Guide. 

Eastern Region  

Groton State Forest – Groton, Peacham, Marshfield  The trails in this forest link several bodies of water and small mountains, including Big and Little Deer Mountains, Owl’s Head Mountain , Osmore Pond, Hosmer Brook, and Kettle Pond.  There are many scenic views to enjoy from the ridges and summits along this network of trails.  You will find these trails in the Day Hiker’s Guide to Vermont .  

Mount Tom – Woodstock  This gentle climb offers views of Woodstock and Okemo Mountain as well as the Ottauquechee River .  Link up with other trails to create your own longer hike or simply head back down.  You will find these trails in the Day Hiker’s Guide to Vermont .  

Spruce Mountain – Plainfield  This moderately steep climb takes you through a variety of landscapes on old logging roads and a foot trail.  Atop the summit sits a fire tower offering extensive views of Vermont and the Green Mountain Range.  The fire tower was repaired and repainted and is now listed on the National Historic Lookout Register.  You will find this hike in the Day Hiker’s Guide to Vermont . 

Western Region

Snake Mountain - Addison  This is a great hike for kids or for those looking for easier terrain.  Walk up carriage trails and well-defined paths to a large flat lookout with the cement base of a long gone structure.  From the lookout there is a panoramic view of the Adirondacks, Lake Champlain, and the rich farming area of Addison County. You will find this hike in the Day Hiker's Guide to Vermont.   

Abbey Pond - Middlebury  Hike to this pretty pond alongside a stream with several cascades and waterfalls. You will find this hike in the Day Hiker's Guide to Vermont .  

Mount Ethan Allen – Bolton  Hike up the north peak of Mount Ethan Allen via Forest City and Long Trails for good views of Camel's Hump. You will find this hike in the Long Trail Guide.  

Both guidebooks are available for purchase at GMC's Marvin B. Gameroff Hiker Center, GMC's online store, or through local book and hiking retailers. 

We strongly suggest that hikers carry a guidebook and / or map when heading out to the trails!

More Hikes in the Waterbury-Stowe Area