Vermont’s Stratton Mountain area transforms each autumn into a canvas of blazing reds, fiery oranges, and golden yellows. These scenic trails invite hikers of all levels to witness fall foliage up close while engaging with Vermont’s rugged landscape. Whether you’re aiming for a quick stroll or a full-day venture, the hikes around Stratton Mountain deliver crisp forest air, welcoming terrain, and sweeping vistas that put fall’s brilliance on full display.

Start with the Stratton Mountain Summit Trail, a 3.5-mile round trip that climbs roughly 1,500 feet. The path moves steadily through dense hardwood forests that seem alive—leaves whisper overhead and branches arch like natural gateways daring you onward. The summit rewards effort with panoramic views stretching from the Green Mountains to distant valleys punched with color. This trail is rocky and uneven in spots—good footwear and steady pacing are key.

For a gentler option, the Equinox Skyline Trail offers a 2.7-mile loop with just 700 feet of elevation gain. Its open ridgeline walks put you amidst wind-swept firs and open skies that showcase foliage in broad swaths rather than woodsy patches. Late morning to early afternoon provides the best light here to catch the vibrancy where the forest meets the sky.

If you prefer a longer adventure, the Stratton Pond Trail extends nearly 5 miles round trip with a moderate 800-foot climb. Along the way, fiery maples crowd the shoreline, their reflections offering another layer of visual intrigue. The terrain is soft earth underfoot, often damp, making waterproof shoes or quick-dry socks advisable.

Planning your excursion between late September and mid-October guarantees peak color, though microclimates cause some variability each year. Start early to avoid afternoon crowds and bring layers; the mountain air shifts rapidly from warm sun to cool shade. Hydration is critical—streams around this area swirl with brisk mountain water, but carrying your own supply ensures you won’t have to rely solely on filtering.

These trails are more than a walk in the woods—each step is a conversation with a landscape that’s sharply changing, fiercely itself, and offering a challenge to be met with respect and care. Pack a compact map, focus on steady footing, and let the changing forest lead your way.