Hiking Vermont’s Trails During Mud Season: Where to Go and How to Tread Lightly
The Green Mountain Club offers a variety of hike recommendations tailored for mud season, from scenic vistas to accessible paths.
Mud season in Vermont, that mucky stretch from late March to early June, transforms trails with snowmelt and thawing soils. While it’s tempting to hit the hills, heavy foot traffic on muddy paths can harm trails and fragile forests. The good news? You can still explore Vermont’s beauty by sticking to low-impact, mud-season-friendly hikes. Thanks to the Green Mountain Club, we’ve got a lineup of approved routes to keep you adventuring through this fifth season without leaving a mark.
To protect trails, opt for low-elevation hikes (below 2,500 feet) with durable surfaces like paved paths or gravel roads. High peaks like Camel’s Hump and Mount Mansfield often stay icy or snowy into June, and their trails may be closed to prevent erosion and damage to rare alpine plants. Always check trail conditions and road access before heading out, as dirt roads can become impassable. If you encounter mud, hike through it rather than around to avoid widening trails, or better yet, turn back and try another route.
The Green Mountain Club offers a variety of hike recommendations tailored for mud season, from scenic vistas to accessible paths. Below is a table of options, all available on their website at www.greenmountainclub.org. Whether you’re craving a high-mileage trek or a family-friendly stroll, these hikes will keep you moving while respecting Vermont’s trails.
For more details, trail maps, and updates on closures, visit the Green Mountain Club’s website or contact their Visitor Center at (802) 244-7037 or gmc@greenmountainclub.org (mailto:gmc@greenmountainclub.org). By choosing these hikes, you’ll enjoy Vermont’s spring awakening while helping preserve its trails for summers to come.