Hiking near Montpelier: 220 trails

A half-day outing takes a little planning.

Think about the way back, the breaks and the parking.

Check access

Opening hours, parking and access conditions can change with the season.

Check the weather at the destination

Changing weather can make some trails harder.

Choose your route

Match the length and the level to your group and the time you have.

Through the seasons

Spring

Spring hiking around Montpelier brings muddy trails and unpredictable weather from March through May, with temperatures ranging from 30-70°F.

The famous 'mud season' makes many trails impassable, so stick to well-established paths and consider microspikes for icy morning conditions. Pack layers and waterproof gear as weather can change rapidly in Vermont's mountains.

Summer

Summer offers the best hiking conditions near Montpelier, with warm temperatures (60-80°F) and long daylight hours perfect for exploring Vermont's Green Mountains.

Popular nearby areas include Camel's Hump State Park and Mount Mansfield, though trails can be crowded on weekends. Bring plenty of water, insect repellent for blackflies and mosquitoes, and start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.

Fall

Fall transforms Montpelier's surrounding mountains into a spectacular display of foliage from late September through mid-October, making it peak hiking season.

Temperatures drop to 40-65°F, requiring warm layers, and trails become busy with leaf-peepers. Book accommodations early and expect crowded trailheads, especially on weekends during peak foliage season.

Winter

Winter hiking around Montpelier requires serious preparation with temperatures often below freezing and significant snowfall from December through March.

Snowshoes or cross-country skis become essential for most trails, and shorter daylight hours mean early starts are crucial. Dress in moisture-wicking layers, bring emergency gear, and check avalanche conditions in steeper terrain.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I go hiking near Montpelier?

The page lists 220 trails. The closest is Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (≈ 7 min drive from downtown), the farthest Squam Lake (≈ 2 hr). Drive times are estimated as the crow flies.

How long does it take to drive to the trails near Montpelier?

16 trails are within ≈ 30 min of driving, 49 within ≈ 1 hr, and all of them within ≈ 2 hr. These are estimates from downtown.

What are the most popular trails near Montpelier?

Among the trails on this page, the most viewed on Let's Go Play Outside are Sutton Natural Environment Park, Station Touristique Mont Owl's Head and Mount Mansfield, Vermont.

How long are the trails near Montpelier?

206 listings give a length, from 0.3 km (Zen Gardens) to 150 km (Cross Vermont Trail). The other 14 do not say.

Are there easy hikes near Montpelier?

Yes: among the trails on this page that give a level, 72 easy, 73 moderate and 51 hard. The closest easy ones: Central Vermont Loop, Butterfield Mountain and Knox Mountain, Vermont.

Can I hike with my dog near Montpelier?

88 listings say dogs are allowed and 0 say they are not. For the other 132, the rule is not confirmed: check the trail page before you go.

Where can I hike for free near Montpelier?

4 listings say access is free, including Sugarbush Resort, Suicide Six and Giant Mountain, New York among the closest. For the others, free access is not confirmed: check the trail page.

Hiking near Montpelier

Hiking ideas near Montpelier

Trails near Montpelier