Published Nov 13, 2024

The Iconic Trail in Vermont Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime

A challenging route through CC Putnam State Forest will lead you to one of the Vermont's most stunning mountain overlooks.

Published Nov 13, 2024

Written by

Beth Copenhaver

Nature|Hiking

Published Oct 25, 2024

Hike Underhill State Park’s Cantilever Rock Trail in Vermont for an Unforgettable Adventure

Hike the Cantilever Rock Trail in Underhill State Park, VT. Experience stunning views and a unique rock formation on this 2.8-mile moderate hike.

Published Oct 25, 2024

Written by

Jasmine Vieau

Underhill State Park, located within Vermont's expansive Mt. Mansfield State Forest, offers a one-of-a-kind hiking experience. One of the park's best trails, the Cantilever Rock Trail, is perfect for those who want an adventure with a unique reward. This 2.8-mile out-and-back hike is rated moderate in difficulty, but it offers incredible views and an unforgettable natural wonder.

A scenic view of mountains and valleys, with colorful autumn foliage and a rocky foreground under a partly cloudy sky. — Timothy Olver/AllTrails

Start your journey on the CCC Road in the park. Follow this road until it intersects with the Sunset Ridge Trail, marked with blue blazes. Hike for a bit along the Sunset Ridge Trail, and you will come across a spur trail branching off to the left. This path will lead you to Cantilever Rock.

Trail sign at a forested area, indicating paths for Sunset Ridge Trail and CCC Road, with a wooden bridge in the background. — Roman Krobath/AllTrails

Along your way to Cantilever Rock, you'll be treated to a variety of scenic sights. The trail winds through lush woodland filled with different kinds of trees, like sugar maples, yellow birches, and American beeches. And keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. You might spot a pileated woodpecker, a red squirrel, or even a white-tailed deer.

A winding forest path covered in fallen leaves, surrounded by trees with vibrant autumn foliage. — Sara Fitzsimmons/AllTrails

As you ascend, the trees begin to thin, revealing glimpses of the dramatic cliffs and rock formations. These cliffs, sculpted by ancient glacial activity thousands of years ago, are made of a tough rock called quartzite. But watch your step; the trail can be rocky and uneven in places, so be prepared for some brief scrambling. The 1,100-foot elevation gain over the short distance makes this a moderately challenging hike.

A large rock formation towers over a mix of trees and shrubs under a clear blue sky. — Kyle Brown/AllTrails

Finally, you'll reach the awe-inspiring Cantilever Rock. This massive rock formation, wedged between two boulders, juts out horizontally over 30 feet into thin air.

A large, flat rock balances precariously on a steep cliff against a blue sky with scattered clouds. — Steven Foland/AllTrails

Imagine standing at the base of a 100-foot cliff, gazing up at this tall, four-sided pillar suspended 60 feet above. It's a sight that captures the incredible beauty and strength of nature.

A tall, jagged rock formation juts out against a blue sky, surrounded by trees and wispy clouds. — Steven Foland/AllTrails

Don't limit your adventure to just the Cantilever Rock Trail. Underhill State Park has numerous trails to explore, including access to Vermont's famed Long Trail. The challenging Sunset Ridge Trail continues to the summit of Mt. Mansfield, offering sweeping panoramic views. For a shorter hike, consider the Laura Cowles Trail, which leads to a scenic overlook. You can also extend your stay by camping within the park, with options for both tent and lean-to sites.

Underhill State Park is open seasonally, typically from late May to mid-October. Day-use fees apply, and reservations are recommended for camping. The park is located at 352 Mountain Road, Underhill, VT, 05490. For more information, including park hours, fees, and trail maps, visit the website of Vermont State Parks.

I'd love to hear about your favorite hike in Underhill State Park! Share your experiences and nominate your favorite Vermont trails. For more incredible hiking adventures across the Green Mountain State, download the AllTrails+ app and check out the 18 best hikes in Vermont.

Nature|Hiking

Published Oct 5, 2024

The 4.5-Mile Hiking Trail in Vermont Is a Fall Foliage Wonderland

Go leaf-peeping on this kid-friendly trail that leads to a waterfall and some of the best fall foliage in Vermont.

Published Oct 5, 2024

Written by

Beth Price-Williams

Autumn has long been my favorite time of the year, especially once we inch toward the peak of the fall foliage. Of all the places I’ve lived, I’ve never experienced anything quite as beautiful as the fall foliage in Vermont. We have so many ways to admire the colors, but one of the best is on a brisk hike on a crisp autumn day, and this trail promises magnificent scenery, including a waterfall.

A vibrant forest in autumn, showcasing trees with golden and orange leaves against a clear blue sky. — All Trails/ Bruce Carr

Although breathtaking at any time of the year, Lye Brook Falls Trail is one to follow at least once near or at the peak of the fall foliage in Manchester. Fall schedules are usually jam-packed, making this relatively short trek ideal. You’ll only need a little over two hours to follow the 4.5-mile moderate trail the whole family, including the littles and the (leashed) pups, will love.

While the trail can get crowded due to its popularity, you shouldn’t have trouble finding parking in the lot, which has around 20 spaces. Parking is also available along the road. The biggest challenges, depending on how you look at it, will come once you hit the trail. Be prepared for an uphill climb heading to Lye Brook Falls, which makes for an easy hike back to the trailhead, and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes to help deal with the rocky terrain and water crossings. The kiddos – and maybe even you – will likely enjoy climbing over downed tree limbs on this forest hike.

A serene waterfall cascades over rocks, surrounded by autumn foliage and fallen logs in a tranquil forest setting. — Waterfall cascading down the rockface at Lye Brook Falls in Manchester, VT, USA

If you’re not in a hurry, take your time and soak up the scenery – chipmunks scurrying along the path; fallen leaves stuck to the ground; and mushrooms popping up. The trail's highlight is Lye Brook Falls. One of the tallest waterfalls in Vermont, Lye Brook Falls tumbles down 125 feet and is breathtaking when surrounded by the fall colors.

A word of caution: The rocks near the waterfall are incredibly slippery, so avoid climbing. If it hasn’t rained recently, you may find the waterfall is little more than a trickle, so keep that in mind before setting off.

Where is your favorite place to view the fall foliage in Vermont? Have you followed Lye Brook Falls Trail in autumn? Let us know in the comments! Not sure what to take with you when you set off? Check out OIYS’ list of hiking packing essentials. After a refreshing fall hike, you’ve probably worked up a mighty appetite. Head over to Ye Olde Tavern in Manchester, the oldest restaurant in Vermont, for a delicious bite.

All Stories

Nature

Hiking