Pico Mountain isn’t just Killington’s lively sibling—it’s a gateway to some of the Green Mountains’ finest day hikes. Just beyond the ski slopes, trails fan out through dense hardwood forests and along ridgelines that dare you onward with unexpected views. Whether you’re after a brisk morning trek or a full day’s adventure, these hikes balance scenic reward with practical challenge.

Start with the Deer Leap Trail, a 3.5-mile loop climbing steadily through spruce and fir, gaining around 1,100 feet. The path’s firm dirt and occasional roots invite focus, while small clearings reward your effort with bands of sun through the green canopy and distant mountain ridges pressing against a wide sky. This trail demands steady footwear and a good pace—hydrate well and start early to avoid afternoon clouds that can sweep in.

For those seeking a longer route, the Bucklin Trail offers a 5.3-mile trek with a 1,280-foot ascent. The terrain shifts from thick forest to exposed ridgelines where the wind takes on a voice of its own, pushing against your steps. Hikers find quieter pockets where bobcats leave tracks in the mud and the scent of pine needles is sharp and fresh. Planning is key here: sturdy shoes, layers for changing weather, and snacks to keep energy steady.

Another gem: the Gifford Woods Trail connects with paths leading to serene streams that challenge your balance with rocks slick from waterfall spray. The whisper of flowing water guides you as the forest leans closer, almost inspecting your progress. This moderate 4-mile hike requires agility and attention, but rewards with peaceful mossy banks and a chance to pause away from any crowd.

Timing the day is as important as the gear. Morning light filters through the leaves in ways that reveal hidden wildflowers or the quick dart of a chipmunk. Afternoon carries more risk of sudden weather shifts, so carry rain protection and watch the sky, especially in late summer and fall.

Pico Mountain’s neighbors offer more than exercise; each trail invites you into an active conversation with the wild, testing endurance without requiring expert skills. Pack your gear, mind your pace, and let the forests, rivulets, and rocky ridges engage you fully. These aren’t trailheads for conquest—they’re invitations to move alongside a landscape fiercely itself.