Vermont’s Green Mountains challenge and charm hikers with terrain that moves at its own pace—slow-burning climbs framed by ancient forests, crisp rivers that dare you to keep pace, and waterfalls that command attention before you even reach them. Whether you’re chasing panoramic views or the rush of cascading waters, these trails offer a direct line to the heart of New England’s rugged wilderness.

Start with the Moss Glen Falls Trail near Stowe. At just 1.5 miles round trip with a modest 300-foot elevation gain, the path is a mix of packed dirt and rocky stretches that keep you alert. The trail follows the Roaring Brook, which pushes water forward with a restless energy, culminating in a powerful waterfall framed by moss-covered stones. Best tackled in mid-spring or early summer, it combines wildflower blooms with cool mist that refreshes even the most seasoned hiker.

For a more demanding route, the Camel's Hump East Ridge Trail challenges you over 3.7 miles with 1,200 feet of steady ascent. This trail compels you to read the mountain’s shifts—steep slabs, crisp pine scents, and open ledges where the wind whispers and the landscape sprawls out like a living map. The summit views include a sweeping green sea of mountains and the distant shimmering of Lake Champlain, rewarding your effort with clarity and scale.

Looking for waterfalls paired with dense woods and serene streams? The Lye Brook Falls Trail near Manchester covers 2.9 miles out and back, climbing a total of 800 feet. The terrain is mostly gentle, with some rocky sections demanding cautious footing, especially after rain. Lye Brook itself weaves through the forest, occasionally growing into churning white water. At the waterfall, the stream leaps over a granite face, a sparkling display that is best enjoyed in the quieter hours before midday.

Each trail demands respect—you’ll want solid hiking shoes with good tread for slippery rocks and root-hitched paths. Carry water enough to offset the effort, especially when temperatures climb. Early starts not only mean cooler hikes but fewer crowds and better wildlife sightings: deer watching quietly, or the sharp-eyed gaze of a red-tailed hawk circling above.

Altogether, these Green Mountain treks offer the chance to move with the earth, sensing each step, breath, and view against a landscape fiercely itself. Vermont’s outdoors gives back what you give it: attention, preparation, and a readiness to be quietly awed.