Vermont’s Wild Circuit offers five distinct adventures that thread through the state’s diverse landscapes—from rugged peaks to open pastures. Each route challenges you to engage with Vermont’s fiercely authentic wilderness across all four seasons, providing an experience that’s as much about preparation and persistence as it is about discovery.

1. Mount Mansfield Traverse (Summer & Fall) Begin your trek at the foot of Vermont’s highest peak. The 7.5-mile route pushes you through steep ascents, rocky ledges, and forested ridges, rewarded by views that stretch across the Green Mountains. The mountain’s granite outcrops dare you forward, while breezes sweep past with quiet urgency. Elevation gain is around 2,800 feet, so sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water are essential.

2. Mad River Path Loop (Spring) A gentler 5-mile loop that hugs the tumbling Mad River, this trail shifts with the seasons. In spring, currents push with snowmelt strength, filling the air with fresh, earthy scents. Wet terrain means waterproof footwear is a must. The trail’s wide pastoral stretches offer moments to catch your breath and watch farmers coax calves from barns.

3. Camel’s Hump Backcountry (Winter) Approach Camel’s Hump in winter for a test of endurance on its steep, snowy slopes. The 6-mile round-trip climb demands snowshoes or crampons and layered clothing for the biting cold. The evergreens stand as silent guardians, their branches weighted by frost. The summit’s blowing winds remind you nature moves on its own terms here.

4. Catamount Trail Pastures (Summer & Fall) This section of the long trail crosses open pasturelands dotted with wildflowers and stone walls. The terrain is moderate—roughly 12 miles in total—mostly rolling hills offering a different pace from mountain climbs. The skies watch from above, streaked with cloud shadows moving slowly across fields where cattle graze. Hydration remains key as shade is sparse.

5. Lye Brook Falls Approach (Spring & Summer) A quick but rewarding 2.5-mile hike through dense Vermont forest leads to the roaring Lye Brook Falls. The falls command attention, as water cascades with strength, nearly brushing the nearby rocks. Trails can get slippery after rain, so traction footwear is advised. This trek suits families and casual hikers seeking a splash of adventure close to the roadside.

With these five routes, Vermont’s Wild Circuit invites you to respect its rhythms and respond practically. Each hike demands awareness—of weather shifts, footing, and the raw pulse of natural forces holding steady and unyielding. Pack smart, move deliberately, and prepare to meet a landscape fiercely itself.