The best walks and hikes around Waitsfield
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42
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11
hikes
Hiking around Waitsfield, Vermont, offers a diverse range of experiences within the scenic Mad River Valley. The region is characterized by the Green Mountains, extensive woodlands, and the Mad River itself, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. Hikers can explore a comprehensive trail network that includes challenging mountain ascents, moderate forest paths, and easier riverside walks.
Best hiking trails around Waitsfield
- The most popular hiking route is Long Trail: Appalachian Gap to Lincoln Gap, a 10.3 miles (16.5 km)…
Last updated: May 31, 2026
11
hikers
16.5km
05:21
690m
680m
The Long Trail: Appalachian Gap to Lincoln Gap offers a challenging hike across Vermont's Green Mountains. You will navigate rugged, rocky paths and steep inclines, passing prominent peaks like Mount…
2
hikers
7.52km
02:38
580m
80m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Long Trail: Stark Mountain and Mount Ellen, a rewarding journey through Vermont's Green Mountains. This route spans 4.7 miles (7.5 km) and features…
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1
hikers
2.01km
00:47
210m
10m
Embark on an easy but invigorating hike from Appalachian Gap to the Sunnyside Warming Hut via the Long Trail. This route covers 1.2 miles (2.0 km) and involves a significant…
1
hikers
3.65km
01:14
0m
550m
The Jerusalem Trail invites you to an easy and refreshing hike through the serene woodlands of Camel's Hump State Forest. This pleasant route spans 2.3 miles (3.6 km) with no…
956m
00:20
90m
0m
The Boyce Hill Trail offers an easy hiking experience, covering just 0.6 miles (1.0 km) with an elevation gain of 296 feet (90 metres). You can expect to complete this…
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Tips from the Community
Mount Abraham is a 4,006-foot summit that offers expansive views. From the top, you can spot Mount Ellen and Lake Champlain off in the distance. Being one of the Vermont 4,000-foot peaks, this mountain sees a fair bit of traffic.
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Located in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Appalachian Gap is a popular spot for cyclists, motorcyclists, and hikers. The views across the gap of the Champlain Valley & Adirondack Mountains are excellent.
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The Appalachian Gap marks the divide between two different drainage systems, although both eventually feed into Lake Champlain. In more practical terms, this gap is a wonderfully easy-access spot to enjoy views of Lake Champlain, the Champlain Valley, and the Adirondack Mountains.
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Although it's a skiing destination in winter, Stark Mountain (or General Stark Mountain) is a great hiking destination in the summer. It's on the Vermont Long Trail and is part of the famed Monroe Skyline, a ridgewalk that offers stunning views in all directions.
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4,049-foot (1,234 m) high Mount Ellen is one of just a few Vermont peaks that reach over the 4,000-foot mark. It's part of the spectacular Monroe Skyline, which also includes Mount Abraham to the south. The two peaks are connected by the Long Trail.
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You can get some great views out over the surrounding mountains from this 3,812-foot (1,162 m) peak. There's a small hut that marks the top of the ski lift from Sugarbush Ski Resort down below. During the summer you can hike up from Sugarbush, or approach from the north or south via the Long Trail. If you hike up from Sugarbush, you'll be sharing the trail with bicycles and 4x4 vehicles.
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At 3,975 feet (1,212 m), Lincoln Peak is arguably the centerpiece of Sugarbush Ski Resort, with great views over the surrounding mountains. There are two different ways to reach the peak during the summer: Hiking up from the base of Sugarbush, which is free to do in the summer (but watch for bike and 4x4 traffic on the same trail); or via the Long Trail.
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From this summit, you have views of both Mount Ellen, located further north but also on Lake Champlain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Waitsfield?
Waitsfield and the surrounding Mad River Valley offer a comprehensive network of over a dozen hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. These trails provide diverse experiences, from challenging mountain ascents to gentle riverside walks.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Waitsfield?
Yes, Waitsfield has several easy trails perfect for beginners or families. The Appalachian Gap to Sunnyside Warming Hut via Long Trail is a short, easy path through dense forest. Another accessible option is the Jerusalem Trail, which offers a gentle descent. The region also features trails like Wu Ledges and Hosford's Heart of the Valley Trail, known for their ease and scenic beauty.
Where can I find challenging hikes with significant elevation gain?
For a more strenuous adventure, consider the Long Trail: Appalachian Gap to Lincoln Gap, a difficult 10.3-mile route with sustained climbs through mountainous terrain. The region also provides access to challenging sections of the Long Trail, including ascents of Stark Mountain and Mount Ellen, and trails leading to Camel's Hump, Vermont's highest undeveloped peak.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints or panoramic vistas?
Absolutely. The Wu Ledges trail is renowned for its outstanding views of the Mad River, Mill Brook, surrounding hillsides, and the spine of the Green Mountains. For even more expansive views, challenging hikes to Camel's Hump offer unbeatable panoramic vistas in every direction.
Can I find trails with waterfalls near Waitsfield?
Yes, the Waitsfield area is close to beautiful waterfalls. You can visit Moss Glen Falls in Granville or Texas Falls in Hancock, both of which are accessible via short trails and make for excellent scenic detours.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Waitsfield?
Waitsfield offers distinct hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery, while summer provides warm weather perfect for exploring. Fall is particularly popular for its stunning foliage, transforming the landscape into vibrant colors. Winter hiking is also possible on many trails, offering a serene, snow-covered experience.
Are there any loop hikes available in the area?
The diverse trail network around Waitsfield includes several options for loop hikes, allowing you to experience varied scenery without retracing your steps. While specific loop routes are not detailed in every guide, the comprehensive trail system, including areas like Blueberry Lake Trails, often allows for creating circular paths.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Waitsfield?
The hiking routes in Waitsfield are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from several reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain paths to peaceful forest walks, and the stunning natural beauty of the Mad River Valley.
Are there any trails suitable for dog walking?
Many trails in the Waitsfield area are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and to check specific trail regulations before heading out, especially within protected areas like the Green Mountain National Forest.
Where can I find moderate difficulty trails?
For a moderate challenge, consider the Long Trail: Stark Mountain and Mount Ellen. This 4.7-mile path navigates through forested slopes and provides rewarding views of the surrounding peaks. Other moderate options in the region include trails like Chase Brook Forest Catamount Trail and Scragg Mountain.
Are there any trails that follow the Mad River?
Yes, the Mad River is a significant natural feature in the area, and trails like the Hosford's Heart of the Valley Trail offer scenic views and access along its banks. These paths provide opportunities for riverside walks, and in some sections, access for activities like swimming or fishing.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see while hiking in Waitsfield?
Hiking in Waitsfield offers a rich variety of natural features. You'll encounter extensive woodlands, diverse habitats, and bedrock outcrops, particularly at places like Wu Ledges. The region is defined by the Green Mountains, the scenic Mad River, and its proximity to the expansive Green Mountain National Forest, providing a true Vermont wilderness experience.
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