5 Nature & Parks in Underhill That You Shouldn't Miss

Reviewed By wildwolf00 - Vermont, United States

Hike to Mount Mansfield summit (chin) either via Sunset Ridge Trail (longer but less steep) or via Laura Cowles Trail (shortest trail to the summit but a steep strenuous parabolic straight-line climb-- not advised for beginners). Return via Sunset Ridge. Total time about 3.0-3.5 hrs. Round trip distance approx 4.8 miles. Summit (The Chin): Fantastic 360-degree views, on an exceptionally clear day you can see all the way north to Montreal, east to Mt. Washington (NH) and beyond (Maine), west to the NY Adirondacks. Be sure to pack warm layers, sometimes it can be super windy and cold at the top even in summer...but many days it is not too cold, even warm with light winds. Be sure to check the daily weather forecast posting at the Ranger Station in the parking lot. Summit is exposed rock above treeline. Beware of possible thunderstorms in summer. Dogs allowed on leash on trails. If summit obscured by clouds expect winds and low temps. Do not climb if thunderstorm clouds over or in vicinity of summit. Rare Alpine environment above treeline-- please stay off grasses and flowers, and step on rocks as much as possible. Also stay within marked boundaries (white string marking sensitive growth regeneration areas). Ascent: Laura Cowles to summit (chin): Rating: Strenuous. About 2 hours up, 2.0 miles. Especially wet after recent rain. Don't recommend descent via this trail due to steepness (knees) and slick. DESCENT via Sunset Ridge is recommended, slightly longer (about 2.8 miles) but less steep than Laura Cowles Trail. Cowles to summit to sunset loop approx 4.8 miles. Advise hiking poles to unload knees on way down. A few difficult spots to slide down on your rear. After leaving Underhill State Park campground, no toilet facilities or potable water. Pack in, pack out. Overall, it is not a beginner hike but is well worth the trip. Most families go up Sunset Ridge Trail and return the same way, about 5.6+ miles round-trip. Plan about 5 hrs total with 30-min lunch at top. Enjoy!