Green Mountain National Forest extends far beyond Killington's slopes, inviting adventurers to explore trails where the forest, rivers, and peaks each demand your attention. This guide highlights hikes that pack sweeping views and varied terrain, perfect for those ready to stretch their legs on paths less traveled.

Start with the Lye Brook Falls Trail, a dynamic 5.4-mile loop featuring a steady 1,200-foot climb. The forest here feels alive: moss draped over boulders, branches that reach out like fingers, and a waterfall that dares you closer with its persistent roar. The trail’s mix of rocky ascents and gentle wooded paths rewards hikers with a misty, cooling spray near the falls.

Another gem is the Bucklin Trail, a 6.6-mile out-and-back route offering a more technical challenge. Elevation gains hover around 2,000 feet, with rougher patches of granite slabs and occasional steeper pitches. The summit’s panorama stretches over southern Vermont’s ridges, where clouds drift like silent watchers, shifting light across the valleys below.

For a moderately paced hike, the Shrewsbury Peak Trail unfolds over 3.1 miles, climbing 1,000 feet. This route threads through thick pine stands and opens up near abandoned stone walls where history murmurs beneath the leaves. The summit’s outlook shows a frontal view of the Coolidge Range, where wild winds push the clouds along relentless courses.

Each hike demands respect for nature’s tempo. Carry enough water, choose footwear with solid traction for wet roots and rocky surfaces, and plan your timing to avoid midday heat or early twilight. Start early to catch the light filtering through the canopy and to appreciate the trails quietly before crowds emerge.

Safety hinges on preparation but so does joy. Map reading skills and a basic first-aid kit armor you against the unpredictable while amplifying your confidence. Keep an eye for signs of sudden weather shifts—mountain air often changes mood with little notice.

The Green Mountain forest isn’t just a backdrop; it is a partner. It tests your stamina with uphill grades and recharges you with its serene yet fierce character. These trails beyond Killington don’t just lead to views, they lead you into a conversation with the mountains themselves—sturdy, enduring, and fiercely themselves.