Mount Mansfield Mountain

Website: https://www.vtfpr.org/ (Vermont Fish & Wildlife / local hiking info)

Mount Mansfield is the highest peak in the U.S. state of Vermont with a summit elevation of 4,393 feet and a distinctive summit ridge. It is a regional landmark for both hiking and winter sports.

Footpaths, including a section of the long-distance Long Trail, cross the summit ridge and provide day-hike opportunities; the ridge is noted for sensitive alpine vegetation and exposed rock. In winter the slopes are used by nearby ski facilities and backcountry skiers.

The mountain has been managed for recreation and conservation with state forest and park protections in place to balance visitor use and habitat preservation. Trailheads and visitor information are provided from nearby towns, including the resort community of Stowe.

Mount Mansfield is located in northern Vermont, a short drive from Stowe and other northern Vermont communities.

• Elevation and vegetation protection: At 4,393 feet the mountain is the highest point in Vermont and supports fragile alpine vegetation near the summit; stay on marked trails to protect sensitive tundra.
• Best viewing times: Fall foliage and long-distance outlooks are among the most popular reasons to hike the summit ridge, with clear days offering broad views across northern Vermont and into neighbouring states and provinces.

What to See#

• Summit ridge and Long Trail: The main summit ridge, often described as a profile-shaped ridge, includes named features used by hikers and is crossed by the Long Trail and local routes.
• Stowe ski area: Nearby downhill skiing and lift facilities at Stowe sit on the mountain’s slopes and provide winter recreation with access to alpine terrain.

The most common approaches are from Stowe and Smugglers’ Notch. From Stowe, follow VT Route 100 and local trailhead signs to parking areas; the Long Trail and several marked routes access the summit ridge within a 15-30 minute drive of downtown Stowe.

• Park at Stowe (about 6 miles/10 km from the Mansfield summit ridge) and use marked trailheads; the Long Trail crosses the summit ridge.
• Summit ridgeline exposure means wind and sudden storms; plan early starts and check local forecasts.
• Fall leaf-peeping brings crowds-arrive before sunrise for silence and the best light.