Vermont’s Green Mountains stretch like a tough spine through the state’s center, calling hikers to explore their rugged charm over multiple days. These trails challenge and reward visitors with thick forests that whisper age-old secrets and summit views that stretch beyond the horizon. If you’re looking to engage with terrain that’s fiercely itself—sometimes relentless, sometimes quietly inviting—these routes offer immersive journeys through Vermont’s wild heart.

The Long Trail is the crown jewel of Green Mountain backpacking, running about 273 miles along the ridge. For a multi-day trek, a popular section runs from Middlebury Gap to Killington Peak, covering approximately 35 miles. The path moves through dense hardwood forests, climbs steeply over rocky ascents, and opens into alpine meadows where wind dares you forward. The elevation gain here approaches 6,000 feet, so prepare for taxing climbs rewarded by panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Next, consider the sections around Camel’s Hump, one of Vermont’s most iconic peaks. The multi-day loop connecting the Burrows Trail, Long Trail, and Monroe Trail offers roughly 20 miles of moderately technical terrain. Expect mixed hardwood and evergreen forests, occasional rocky scrambles, and ridgelines where the sun filters through shifting clouds. This route balances challenge with accessibility, rewarding hikers with sweeping vistas of the Winooski River Valley.

For adventurers seeking solitude and diverse ecosystems, the Bread Loaf Wilderness loop is a strong pick. Roughly 27 miles cover uneven terrain with gentle rises and sharp inclines, swaths of mossy conifers, and rippling streams that seem to challenge thirsty hikers to keep pace. Wildlife sightings here include moose and black bear, urging campers to store food carefully and respect the environment.

When planning your multi-day adventure, mind the season and weather. Spring and fall offer crisp air and vibrant foliage, but trails may be muddy and water crossings strong. Summer brings warmth and longer days but demands bug protection and careful hydration strategies. Winter routes require full technical gear and winter camping experience.

Footwear should offer solid ankle support for rocky, root-dense paths. Water purification is vital—streams run cold but carry natural debris and microbes that won’t welcome careless drinkers. Pack layered clothing to adjust swiftly as the mountain’s temperament shifts.

Each trail offers a chance to connect deeply with the Green Mountains’ raw personality, a blend of beauty and challenge that never truly relents but always rewards. Venture prepared, respect the forces at play, and the mountains will tell a story only you can take away.