With its lush, green forests, sparkling lakes, and expansive National and State Parks, Killington, Vermont is a popular destination for hikers from all over the country. This picturesque region offers both rugged terrain and paved paths that entice adventurers of all ages and skill levels. Just a short drive from GetAway Vacations, visitors can enjoy miles of routes that wind up mountains, through dense woodlands, and along flowing rivers and streams, with a scenic backdrop of the Green Mountain State along the way! Here are some of our favorite Killington hiking trails to explore.
Spend a Day on These Killington Hiking Trails
- Bucklin Trail: This 6.9-mile trail up to Killington Peak offers a moderate hike with rewarding views. Guests will begin at the trailhead and can hike on flat and easy terrain before encountering some steep, rocky areas about three miles in. Once at the top, however, you’ll have a stunning panorama of the Green Mountains, the Adirondacks of New York, and even the White Mountains of New Hampshire, so be sure to bring a camera! The Bucklin Trail is open March through October.
- Thundering Falls Trail: Part of the Vermont Appalachian Trail, Thundering Falls is an easy hike on a 0.4-mile wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that leads to the sixth tallest waterfall in the state. From a viewing platform, visitors can watch in awe as the water cascades 140 feet down through a steep and narrow cataract.
- Gifford Woods State Park: Located at the base of Killington Mountain, Gifford Woods State Park is close to both the Appalachian Trail and the Long Trail and is a popular spot for year-round hiking and leaf-peeping in the fall. Guests particularly enjoy the scenic 0.3-mile hike on the Gifford Woods Interpretive Trail, which features interpretive exhibits that explore the natural and cultural history of the Gifford Woods old-growth forest.
- Deer Leap Trail: The Deer Leap Trail is an offshoot of the Appalachian Trail and offers a short but rugged hike that ends with dramatic views of the Coolidge Mountain Range. The trail climbs quickly to a small ridge and through open birch forest before reaching an overlook. Hikers can continue to climb over Big Deer Mountain before descending to a junction with the Appalachian Trail. The total trip is about 3 miles, with an average hiking time of 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Killington Mountain Resort: Offering 15 miles of designated trails, hikers of all skill levels can enjoy a journey to or from the mountain’s peak. The routes range in difficulty and length, with easy, short trails under 2 miles and steep, moderate trails that are around 3 miles uphill. The difficult trails tend to be longer than 3 miles and have vertical climbs exceeding 1,500 feet, so don’t forget to bring some water!
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations
Now that you know about the best Killington hiking trails in the area, it’s time to start planning your adventure! When searching for the perfect homestead in Vermont, look no further than our beautiful Killington vacation rentals. After a day spent challenging the body, our luxurious and comfortable homes provide a peaceful and relaxing retreat for you to unwind and restore. We can’t wait to hear about where the trails take you!
For more information on the best Green Mountain hiking trails, download our free Killington vacation guide. Don’t forget to check out our amazing vacation rentals!