Vermont transforms into a riot of color in the fall, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than on a hike with your dog.
Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and trails that welcome four-legged companions make every step a joy.
From gentle walks to more challenging paths, these trails offer stunning views, fresh mountain air, and plenty of opportunities for your pup to explore. Grab a leash and prepare for autumn adventures.
1. Sunset Ridge Trail (Mount Mansfield)
Imagine your pup prancing through a rainbow of fall leaves on Vermont’s highest peak! Sunset Ridge offers jaw-dropping panoramic views that’ll have both you and Fido howling with delight.
The trail features plenty of open areas above treeline where your dog can safely explore while you snap those perfect fall foliage photos. Remember to pack extra water and treats for your furry hiking companion.
2. Camel’s Hump via Monroe Trail
Tail-wagging adventure awaits on this classic Vermont trek! Your canine companion will love sniffing along this moderately challenging trail as maple and birch trees create a canopy of fiery colors overhead.
The distinctive double-humped summit offers 360-degree views of Vermont’s autumn landscape.
Leashes are recommended near the top where terrain gets rocky. The trail’s gradual ascent makes it manageable for most four-legged hikers.
3. Stowe Pinnacle Trail
Paws down one of the biggest bang-for-your-buck hikes in Vermont! Your furry friend will bound up this 2.8-mile round trip trail through a wonderland of sugar maples sporting their autumn best.
The summit rewards with breathtaking views of Stowe Valley painted in fall colors.
A natural rock outcropping at the top provides the perfect spot for a picnic with your pup. Water crossings along the way offer refreshment stops for thirsty dogs.
4. Sterling Pond Trail
Woof-worthy wilderness awaits on this popular trek to Vermont’s highest trout pond! The trail winds through a forest that transforms into a kaleidoscope of reds and golds come October.
Your pup will enjoy splashing at the pristine alpine pond that mirrors the surrounding fall colors.
Despite the relatively short 2.3-mile round trip, the trail offers a decent workout with several rocky sections. Early morning hikes often reward with misty, magical views across the pond.
5. Lye Brook Falls Trail
Water-loving pups rejoice! This southern Vermont gem leads to one of the state’s tallest and most spectacular waterfalls, framed by a symphony of autumn colors.
The 4.4-mile round trip follows an old logging railroad bed, making it relatively smooth for sensitive paws. Your four-legged explorer will appreciate the numerous stream crossings along the route.
Fall transforms the forest into a golden gallery that perfectly complements the 125-foot cascading waterfall at the trail’s end.
6. Quechee Gorge Trail
Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon” offers an accessible adventure that’s perfect for senior dogs or puppies still building their hiking muscles! The trail follows along Vermont’s deepest gorge, with the Ottauquechee River flowing 165 feet below.
Fall colors reflect dramatically in the water, creating a double dose of autumn splendor. The well-maintained path means no muddy paws to clean afterward!
Numerous viewpoints along the rim provide perfect photo opportunities with your furry model against a backdrop of fall foliage.
7. Mount Philo Summit Trail
Puppy paradise awaits on Vermont’s most family-friendly mountain! At just 968 feet tall, Mount Philo packs serious scenic punch without exhausting your four-legged friend.
The summit offers spectacular views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks beyond, all framed by Vermont’s famous fall colors.
A bonus for dog owners: the state park allows leashed pets year-round. The 1.9-mile loop can be completed in about an hour, making it perfect for a quick autumn adventure.
8. Owl’s Head Trail (Groton State Forest)
Not to be confused with its New Hampshire namesake, this hidden gem delivers maximum fall splendor with minimal effort!
Your pup will thank you for the gentle 1.5-mile round trip through a forest exploding with autumn colors.
The trail culminates at a granite outcropping with sweeping views of Kettle Pond and surrounding hills.
Groton State Forest is notably dog-friendly, with multiple connecting trails if you and your energetic companion want to extend your adventure.
The wide, smooth path makes this accessible for dogs of various ages and abilities.
9. Mount Abraham via Battell Trail
Rocky adventure seekers and their equally adventurous pups will love this challenging trek! Mount Abraham rewards your efforts with some of Vermont’s most spectacular above-treeline views.
The trail passes through enchanting forests that burst into a painter’s palette of colors each fall. At the 4,006-foot summit, your dog can claim the title of conquering Vermont’s fifth highest peak.
The upper portion requires some scrambling, so athletic dogs with hiking experience will enjoy this trail most.
10. Moss Glen Falls Trail (Stowe)
Short, sweet, and spectacularly scenic! This easy 0.3-mile trail is perfect for puppies, senior dogs, or when you just want a quick nature fix with maximum autumn beauty.
Your four-legged friend will enjoy the flat, accessible path leading to one of Vermont’s most photographed waterfalls.
The surrounding forest creates a natural frame of golden and crimson leaves around the cascading water.
Multiple shallow stream areas along the way provide perfect spots for dogs who love to splash and cool their paws.