Highlight • Summit
Hiking
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Mount Mansfield Summit, standing proudly at 1,339 meters (4,393 feet) above sea level, is the highest point in Vermont and a prominent feature of the Green Mountains. Located in the northwest of the state, with its summit primarily in Underhill, this iconic peak is renowned for its distinctive profile, which, when viewed from certain angles, strikingly resembles a human face. The mountain is nestled within the vast Mount Mansfield State Forest, offering a rich natural environment.
Visitors consistently praise the…
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June 23, 2022
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May 4, 2023
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Best routes near Mount Mansfield Summit
4.9
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121
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10.8km
04:09
810m
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5.0
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84
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04:18
860m
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4.0
(2)
20
hikers
5.48km
02:41
840m
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Elevation 1,290 m
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Mount Mansfield offers several challenging routes to its summit. Popular options include the Long Trail & Hazelton Trail (7.8 miles, hard) and the Sunset Ridge & Laura Cowles Trail (4.5 miles, hard). Both routes involve significant elevation gain and rocky terrain, requiring good physical condition and proper hiking gear. The Long Trail is part of the strenuous 270-mile statewide trail.
Direct hikes to Mount Mansfield's summit are generally considered challenging and are best suited for experienced hikers due to steep, rocky terrain and significant elevation gain. However, families and beginners can still enjoy the mountain by taking the Auto Toll Road or the Gondola SkyRide to higher elevations, followed by shorter, less strenuous walks along the ridge. Always assess trail conditions and weather before heading out.
Yes, many trails on Mount Mansfield are dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash. It's important to remember that the terrain can be challenging, with rocky sections and ladders on some routes. Ensure your dog is physically capable of the hike and carry enough water for both of you. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.
Parking is available at various trailheads, including those for the Sunset Ridge Trail and the Long Trail. There is also parking at the base of the Auto Toll Road. Parking areas, especially at popular trailheads, can fill up very quickly, particularly on weekends and during peak fall foliage season. Arriving early in the morning is strongly recommended to secure a spot.
The time required to hike to Mount Mansfield's summit varies significantly depending on the chosen route, your fitness level, and how often you stop. For challenging routes like the Sunset Ridge & Laura Cowles Trail (4.5 miles) or the Long Trail & Hazelton Trail (7.8 miles), hikers should generally plan for a 4 to 7-hour round trip. Always factor in extra time for breaks, photos, and enjoying the views.
Winter hiking on Mount Mansfield is possible but requires significant experience, proper gear, and awareness of extreme conditions. Trails can be icy, snow-covered, and windswept, with temperatures much colder than at the base. Essential gear includes microspikes or snowshoes, trekking poles, layers of warm clothing, and navigation tools. It's crucial to check weather forecasts and avalanche warnings before attempting a winter ascent.
Generally, there are no specific hiking permits required to access the trails on Mount Mansfield. However, there is a fee to use the Auto Toll Road if you choose to drive part of the way up the mountain. Parking at some trailheads may also require a fee or a state park pass. Always check the latest information from the Vermont State Parks or Stowe Mountain Resort for current fees.
Mount Mansfield is one of only three locations in Vermont where true alpine tundra, a rare ecosystem surviving from the Ice Ages, can be found. Approximately 200 acres of this delicate environment exist on the summit. Visitors can also observe the mountain's distinctive human face profile, with features like "The Chin" (the highest point) and "The Nose." It's crucial to stay on designated trails to protect this fragile ecosystem.
For a summit hike, essential items include sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing (even in summer, as summit weather can be unpredictable), rain gear, plenty of water, high-energy snacks, a map and compass or GPS device, a first-aid kit, and sun protection. Trekking poles can also be very helpful on the rocky terrain. Always be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
The nearby town of Stowe, Vermont, offers a wide array of options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation. You'll find everything from cozy coffee shops and casual eateries to fine dining restaurants and lively pubs. For lodging, Stowe provides a range of choices, including hotels, inns, bed & breakfasts, and vacation rentals, catering to various budgets and preferences. It's a popular tourist destination, so booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is advisable.
Both Mount Mansfield and Camel's Hump are iconic Vermont peaks offering challenging hikes and stunning views. Mount Mansfield is the highest peak in Vermont, with more varied access options including the Auto Toll Road and Gondola. It also features the unique alpine tundra. Camel's Hump, while slightly lower, is known for its distinctive bare, humped summit and is often considered a more remote and rugged hiking experience, with no roads to its upper reaches. Both offer rewarding experiences for experienced hikers.