The best walks and hikes around Underhill Center
4.7
(35)
756
hikers
26
hikes
Hiking around Underhill Center is centered around Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, and the surrounding Mount Mansfield State Forest. The region features diverse terrain, including forested ascents, exposed rock ledges, and alpine tundra near the summit. Trails often provide views of the Champlain Valley and distant Lake Champlain. Underhill State Park serves as a primary access point for many of the area's hiking trails.
Best hiking trails around Underhill Center
- The most popular hiking route is Mount Mansfield Summit –…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.9
(8)
127
hikers
10.8km
04:09
810m
660m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
3.67km
01:02
90m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
hikers
2.74km
01:20
480m
0m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
2.39km
01:00
330m
0m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(8)
145
hikers
7.65km
03:21
730m
730m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Hiking Vermont Trails above 2500 feet is strongly discouraged until Memorial Day weekend because of erosionall damage Contact the Green Mountain Club at 802-244-7037 or email gmc@greenmountainclub.org or their website greenmountainclub.org
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The Sunset Ridge Trail is one of the most scenic trails in Vermont and travels up southwestern side of Mt. Mansfield. This fantastic trail is relatively short and mostly above treeline. It offers phenomenal views of the Champlain Valley and the Mansfield ridge line and, as the name indicates, is exceptionally beautiful at sunset. There are several water crossings and scenic outcroppings scattered along this enjoyable trail as you hike up toward Mt. Mansfield.
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You can reach Cantilever Rock via a short spur trail off of the Sunset Ridge Trail. This unique rock juts precariously out off the side of an exposed cliff and is a nice, short detour as you make your way up or down the main trail.
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The Forehead is the southernmost named sub peak on the ridge line of Mt. Mansfield. Mansfield's Forehead, or simply, "The Forehead," gets it name from the idea that the the long, exposed ridge line of Mt. Mansfield looks like the profile of a man's face lying down. Standing at 3,940 feet, the Forehead is a great place to take in the views up the Mansfield ridge line to the north. Mt. Mansfield is one of two places where Arctic Tundra exists in Vermont so please try to stick on designated trails when traveling in this unique, beautiful area. From the "Forehead" here to the "Adam's Apple," which is a little over 2 miles to the south, the trail almost entirely above treeline, so please check conditions before traveling in this incredible area.
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Supposedly, the long, exposed ridge line of Mt. Mansfield, the tallest mountain in Vermont, looks like the profile of a man's face. This particular feature is known as Mansfield's Lower Lip. From the Lower Lip you get great views down the long, exposed ridge line that comprises Mt. Mansfield.
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The small sub peaks and bumps off of Mt. Mansfield are all named for different facial features; supposedly, the long ridge line of Mansfield looks like the profile of a man's face lying down. This particular feature is known as Mansfield's Upper Lip, or simply, the Upper Lip. This rocky band of cliffs is quite prominent on the exposed ridge line and is a great feature to snap some photos of as you continue your hike in the alpine tundra.
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Mt. Mansfield looms over the small ski town of Stowe, Vermont, at 4,393 feet. As the tallest mountain in Vermont, Mansfield is a very popular and rewarding summit for any New Englander. Because of its popularity (there are almost 40,000 visitors every year), the delicate ecosystem has been severely affected. Mt. Mansfield is one of two places in Vermont where Arctic Tundra exists, so please try to stick on designated trails when visiting this summit. When relaxing on the summit, you get fantastic panoramic views across Vermont, and on clear days you can even see to the Presidentials in New Hampshire!
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This is one of the finest views in Vermont, if not New England. Well worth a visit for any hiker with experience
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Underhill Center?
Underhill Center offers nearly 30 distinct hiking routes, catering to a wide range of abilities. You'll find everything from easy woodland walks to challenging ascents up Mount Mansfield.
What are the most scenic viewpoints or natural features to look for on the trails?
The region is rich with stunning natural features. Many trails, especially those leading up Mount Mansfield, offer panoramic views of the Champlain Valley and even Lake Champlain on clear days. Keep an eye out for the unique alpine tundra near the summit of Mount Mansfield Summit, and the distinctive geological formation of Cantilever Rock. Mansfield's Lower Lip also provides expansive vistas.
Are there any family-friendly or easy hiking options in Underhill Center?
Yes, Underhill Center has several easier options suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous walk. The Crane Brook Conservation District offers gentle trails, and within our guide, you can find routes like the Fieldstone Loop, which is rated as easy and covers about 3.6 kilometers.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Underhill Center?
Many trails in the Mount Mansfield State Forest and surrounding areas are dog-friendly, but regulations can vary. It's always best to check specific trail rules before heading out, and ensure your dog is leashed and you practice Leave No Trace principles.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many of the trails in Underhill Center can be combined to form circular routes. For example, the popular Sunset Ridge Trail – Mount Mansfield Summit loop from Underhill State Park is a moderate 11.5 km circular path offering panoramic views. Another option is the Hiking loop from Stevensville, a 6.5 km moderate route.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Underhill Center?
The hiking routes in Underhill Center are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse terrain, from forested paths to exposed ridgelines, and the rewarding views, especially from Mount Mansfield's summit.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, Underhill State Park, which serves as a primary gateway to many trails, offers parking facilities. For specific trailheads, parking availability can vary, so it's advisable to check details for your chosen route in advance.
Are there any waterfalls along the hiking trails in Underhill Center?
While Underhill Center is known more for its mountain ascents and panoramic views, the region's streams and rivers, like the Winooski River, offer scenic beauty. Specific named waterfalls directly on popular hiking trails are less common, but you may encounter smaller cascades, especially during spring runoff or after heavy rains.
What are the options for public transport to Underhill Center?
Public transport options directly to Underhill Center are limited. Most visitors typically reach the area by car, which provides the most flexibility for accessing various trailheads and attractions within the Mount Mansfield State Forest.
Can I camp near the hiking trails in Underhill Center?
Yes, Underhill State Park, located on the western slope of Mount Mansfield, offers camping facilities. These include walk-in tent and lean-to sites, providing a convenient base for exploring the extensive trail network.
What is the best time of year to hike in Underhill Center?
The best time to hike in Underhill Center is generally from late spring through fall. Summer offers lush greenery and warmer temperatures, while autumn provides spectacular fall foliage. Spring can be muddy with snowmelt, and winter hiking requires specialized gear and experience due to snow and ice conditions, especially at higher elevations.
Are there any challenging day hikes near Underhill Center?
Absolutely. For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the ascent of Mount Mansfield offers several demanding routes. A prime example is the Mount Mansfield Summit – Sunset Ridge Trail loop from Stevensville, a difficult 14.4 km trail with significant elevation gain, providing expansive views from above the tree line.
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