Mount Mansfield

Mount Mansfield is the highest mountain in Vermont and flagship peak within the famous Vermont Green Mountains. The mountain is one of two spots in Vermont where true alpine tundra survives from the Ice Ages.

The east flank of the mountain is also home to Stowe Mountain Resort, one of the finest winter ski resorts in the country.

The hike begins at Underhill State Park off of Mountain Road where there is plenty of parking available in the parking area for a fee of $4/person.

Did you know?

When viewed from the east or west, Mount Mansfield has the appearance of a human profile, with distinct forehead, nose, lips, chin, and Adam's apple…hence the origin of its name.

Mount Mansfield Basics

Summit elevation: 4,393′ (1,339 m)
Vertical gain: 2,880′
Hiking mileage: 7.3 miles
Location: Mount Mansfield State Forest, Underhill, VT

Hiking Mount Mansfield

Six-Pack of Peaks Challengers should follow the 7.3 mile Mount Mansfield Loop Trail which begins in Underhill State Park.

Travel Time

Driving from Boston, MA: 3:38 (218 Miles)
Driving from Albany, NY: 3:29 (167 Miles)
Look-up turn-by-turn directions to the trailhead here on Google Maps

Where to Stay

Camping

Underhill State Park offers a number of campsites in close proximity to the Mount Mansfield trailhead.

Lodging

There are many lodging options within an hour drive of the park entrance. Hikers can opt to stay in Burlington right on the shores of picturesque Lake Champlain or head east to the quintessential New England town of Stowe with its stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

My personal favorite is Stone Hill Inn in Stowe, one of the top Bed and Breakfast destinations in the country. Staying in this area also allows hikers quick access to other trails on the backside of Mount Mansfield in historic Smuggler's Notch.

Dining

The Burlington and Stowe areas offer a variety of great dining options. For a romantic dinner in a more historic setting I highly recommend Hen of the Wood restaurant in Waterbury.

For those seeking a more casual dining experience, Idletyme Brewing Company in Stowe offers delicious food and great locally brewed beer.

It is also worth noting the Ben & Jerry's Factory is conveniently located in Waterbury for those hikers looking to experience some ice cream nirvana after their hike.