The best walks and hikes in Mount Philo State Park

Yes, dogs are welcome in Mount Philo State Park but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

The main trail to the 968-foot summit is a steep, three-quarter-mile trek that most hikers complete in under 30 minutes at a brisk pace. The total time for a round trip will vary depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views at the top.

Yes, the park and its surroundings offer several easier options suitable for families. For a gentle walk with rewarding scenery, consider the Kingsland Bay State Park Loop. This relatively flat 3.6-mile (5.8 km) trail offers lovely views along the shores of Lake Champlain.

Yes, there is a paved road that leads directly to the summit. This makes the spectacular panoramic views of the Lake Champlain Valley and the Adirondack Mountains accessible to visitors who are unable to hike or prefer to drive.

Mount Philo State Park is typically open from 10:00 a.m. to sunset during its operating season, which generally runs from late May through mid-October. There is a day-use entrance fee for adults and children. For the most current fee information and specific dates, it's best to check the official Vermont State Parks website.

Hiking is possible in the winter, but the park's facilities, including the summit road, are closed. Trails are not maintained, so you should be prepared for snow and ice. Proper winter hiking gear, such as microspikes or snowshoes, is highly recommended for safety.

The summit of Mount Philo offers one of the region's most celebrated vistas. You'll find spectacular panoramic views looking west over the Lake Champlain Valley, with the Adirondack Mountains of New York forming a dramatic backdrop. It's a particularly popular spot for watching the sunset.

Yes, the summit area is an excellent spot for a picnic, with tables available for visitors. The park also has a small campground with tent sites and lean-to shelters, as well as a historic 1930s lodge at the summit that can be rented for events.

The trails in this area are very highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 5.0 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths and the stunning summit views that are achievable with a relatively short climb.

While the park is beautiful from late spring through fall, autumn is a particularly special time to visit. The hardwood forests, rich with hickories and oaks, erupt in brilliant colors, making for an exceptionally scenic hike. It's also a key time for watching the annual raptor migration.

The immediate park has a primary summit trail and an alternate route, but the surrounding area offers more to explore. On komoot, you can find around 7 curated hiking routes, ranging from easy lakeside strolls to moderate climbs.