Hiking Smugglers' Notch Resort - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Smugglers' Notch Resort: trails, map and practical info

Central Vermont • Vermont

4.5 Appreciated by 11 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 01/04/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Hard
Distance
8 km
Elevation
795 ft
Duration
3h30
Max altitude
1,339 ft

Experience 795 m of elevation gain over 4 to 6 hours in Vermont's Green Mountains, where America's oldest long-distance trail, the Long Trail, passes through rugged terrain offering panoramic mountain vistas.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Smugglers' Notch Resort? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

Welcome to smugglers' notch resort, a hiker's paradise nestled in the heart of Vermont's stunning Green Mountains. If you're an outdoor enthusiast or someone who simply loves spending time in nature, this is the perfect destination for you.

smugglers' notch resort offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and diverse hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for a challenging trek or a beginner eager to explore the great outdoors, you'll find a trail that suits your pace and preference.

One of the highlights of hiking at Smugglers' Notch is the opportunity to immerse yourself in Vermont's natural beauty. The resort is surrounded by lush forests, serene streams, and majestic mountain vistas that provide a picturesque backdrop for your adventures. As you traverse the trails, keep an eye out for local wildlife and vibrant flora that add to the area's charm.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Long Trail—America's oldest long-distance hiking trail—passes through this region. This iconic trail offers hikers a chance to experience some of Vermont's most rugged terrain and panoramic views.

After a day of exploration, relax and unwind at the resort with its comfortable accommodations and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a meal at one of the on-site restaurants or taking part in one of the many recreational activities available, Smugglers' Notch ensures your stay is as enjoyable as your hikes.

So lace up your hiking boots and get ready to discover why smugglers' notch resort is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about the outdoors. Your next adventure awaits in Vermont!

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
4323 VT-108, Jeffersonville, VT 05464, USA
GPS coordinates
44.5884605, -72.7899944
Phone
(802) 370-3186

Starting Point

To access the hiking trails, you can start at several trailheads:

  1. Smugglers' Notch State Park: The main parking area is located on Vermont Route 108, near Stowe. This is a popular starting point for many trails in the area.

  2. Barnes Camp Visitor Center: Located at 6443 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT 05672, this center offers parking and access to various trailheads.

  3. Long Trail Parking Lot: Situated on Route 108, just south of the resort area, this lot provides access to the Long Trail and other connecting paths.

Ensure to check local maps and signs for specific trailhead locations and any seasonal road closures that might affect access.

When?

Opening hours
Monday: Open 24 hoursTuesday: Open 24 hoursWednesday: Open 24 hoursThursday: Open 24 hoursFriday: Open 24 hoursSaturday: Open 24 hoursSunday: Open 24 hours
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
  • Hiking shoes Essential
  • Layered clothing Essential
  • Rain jacket Essential
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
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
44.5884605, -72.7899944
Center
(802) 370-3186

Hikers' opinions

4.5
6 Reviews
M
Michael
Nov 15, 2025
Excellent challenging hike that really tests your fitness level. The 795m elevation gain is substantial but the rewarding views from the summit make it worthwhile. Well-maintained trails with clear markings throughout. A solid day adventure for experienced hikers looking for a genuine mountain workout in Vermont.
D
David
Jun 10, 2025
Solid hiking experience with impressive elevation gain that keeps you engaged throughout. The trail is well-marked and the panoramic vistas justify the physical effort required. However, parking fees and the hard difficulty rating mean this isn't ideal for casual hikers. Best suited for those with solid mountain experience.
R
Robert
Sep 14, 2024
Exceptional hiking destination offering dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking panoramic views. The trail system is well-organized with clear directional markers making navigation straightforward. This is a must-do for serious hikers in the region. The physical challenge combined with natural beauty makes it an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
WH
Weekend Hiker
Feb 20, 2024
Fantastic hiking experience at Smugglers' Notch! The significant elevation gain of 795m provides excellent workout opportunities while showcasing Vermont's natural beauty. Barnes Camp Visitor Center was a great starting point with helpful trail information. The 4-6 hour timeframe is accurate for a moderate pace, allowing time to enjoy the scenic mountain vistas.
TR
Trail Runner
Feb 3, 2024
What an amazing trail system! The elevation gain of 795m really tests your endurance but the panoramic views from the peaks are worth every step. Started from the Long Trail parking lot on Route 108 and the trail connections are well-marked. Perfect for a challenging 4-6 hour hike through Vermont's beautiful mountain landscape.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Hard
795.00
1339.00
Monday: Open 24 hoursTuesday: Open 24 hoursWednesday: Open 24 hoursThursday: Open 24 hoursFriday: Open 24 hoursSaturday: Open 24 hoursSunday: Open 24 hours
3h30
No
No
Hiking at Smugglers' Notch Resort typically takes 4 to 6 hours. The actual duration will depend on your chosen trail, pace, and stops along the way.
The elevation gain for trails at Smugglers' Notch Resort is 795 meters. This represents a significant climb that will challenge most hikers.
No, dogs are not allowed on the trails at Smugglers' Notch Resort. Plan to leave your pets at home when visiting this hiking area.
You can park at several locations including Smugglers' Notch State Park on Vermont Route 108, Barnes Camp Visitor Center at 6443 Mountain Road, or the Long Trail Parking Lot on Route 108. Check local maps and signs for specific trailhead locations and any seasonal road closures before your visit.
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Top 10 best hiking in Central Vermont
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Hiking near Stowe

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Update : June 2026