Hiking Camel's Hump State Park - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Camel's Hump State Park: trails, map and practical info

Central Vermont • Vermont

4.8 Appreciated by 15 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2013 • Updated 19/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Hard
Distance
13 km
Elevation
795 ft
Duration
5h30
Max altitude
1,244 ft

Vermont's third-highest peak offers a challenging 13 km trek with 795 m elevation gain to reach the iconic camel-shaped summit. This 4.5-hour adventure rewards hikers with panoramic views stretching to New York's Adirondacks and New Hampshire's White Mountains.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Camel's Hump State Park? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

Wildlife and Natural Environment

The forests of Camel's Hump State Park support a healthy range of wildlife. Black bears, white-tailed deer, and a variety of bird species inhabit the lower and mid-elevation zones. As you move into the boreal forest near the summit, the ecosystem transitions to high-elevation spruce-fir habitat typical of the region's alpine zones.

The park's protected status means the natural environment is well-maintained, and the sense of wildness increases noticeably as you gain elevation and leave the trailhead crowds behind.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
See price
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
3429 Camels Hump Rd, Duxbury, VT 05676, USA
GPS coordinates
44.3118672, -72.8759733
Phone
(802) 879-6565

Starting Point

The camel's hump state park is located in Vermont. To get to the start of the trails, take exit 10 off of I-89 and head east on Route 17. The park will be on your left.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
44.3118672, -72.8759733
Center
(802) 879-6565

Hikers' opinions

4.8
6 Reviews
M
Marcus
Nov 22, 2025
This challenging hike delivers exceptional panoramic views that justify the effort. The 13km route with 795m elevation gain is demanding but well-marked throughout, though expect rocky sections that require careful footing. The steady ascent tests your endurance, yet reaching Camel's Hump peak rewards you with stunning vistas across Vermont. Experienced hikers will appreciate this classic mountain challenge.
J
Jennifer
Sep 14, 2025
A rewarding summit experience that lives up to its reputation as one of Vermont's premier hikes. The trail is generally well-maintained and clearly marked, making navigation straightforward despite the significant elevation gain. While the ascent is relentless and physically demanding, the breathtaking views from the top make the effort worthwhile. Budget adequate time and bring plenty of water for this strenuous adventure.
D
David
Jul 8, 2025
The hike offers impressive summit views but comes with some practical considerations. Parking requires payment, so bring cash before arriving. The trail itself is reasonably marked, though rocky terrain demands careful attention to footing. The elevation gain is substantial and unrelenting, making this suitable primarily for experienced hikers with good fitness levels. Weather conditions can change rapidly at the peak.
S
Sarah
May 30, 2025
An excellent choice for serious hikers seeking a genuine mountain challenge in Central Vermont. The 13km distance combined with 795m elevation gain creates a demanding but achievable objective for fit adventurers. Trail conditions are generally good with clear markings, though rocky sections require attention. The summit panorama justifies every step of the ascent, offering spectacular views across the surrounding landscape.
R
Robert
Mar 17, 2025
This state park delivers a memorable hiking experience for those prepared for significant physical exertion. The route is well-established and properly marked, guiding you through varied terrain to the distinctive summit. Expect a strenuous climb with relentless elevation gain, but the payoff is undeniable. The views from Camel's Hump showcase Vermont's natural beauty magnificently, making it a worthwhile destination for committed outdoor enthusiasts.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Hard
795.00
1244.00
5h30
No
No
No, the Camel's Hump State Park trail is rated as Hard difficulty with 795 m of elevation gain over 13 km, making it unsuitable for beginners. This trail is best suited for experienced hikers with good fitness levels.
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Update : June 2026