The best walks and hikes in Orange County
4.9
(14)
302
hikers
43
hikes
Hiking in Orange County, Vermont, features a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and river valleys. The region offers a mix of trails that traverse forested areas and provide views of the surrounding countryside. Elevation changes are generally moderate, with some routes leading to higher points like Gile Mountain.
Best hiking trails in Orange County
- The most popular hiking route is Lyme Hill — New Hampshire, an easy 1.7 miles (2.8 km) trail that takes about 53 minutes…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
1
hikers
3.03km
01:03
260m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
4.84km
01:19
60m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
1.91km
00:35
100m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
2.79km
00:53
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
4.42km
01:13
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.36km
00:23
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(9)
36
hikers
6.80km
02:15
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
35
hikers
2.16km
00:48
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
6
hikers
11.2km
02:52
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
8.21km
02:07
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Orange County
Hiking around Fairlee
Hiking in Union Village Dam Recreation Area
Hiking in Thetford Hill State Forest
Hiking in Thetford Hill State Park
Hiking around Williamstown
Hiking around Bradford
Road Cycling Routes in Orange County
Running Trails in Orange County
Cycling in Orange County
MTB Trails in Orange County
Tips from the Community
From the top of the five-story fire tower you get 360-degree views of Groton State Forest. Though Signal, Burnt, and Butterfield Mountains (visible to the south) are fractionally taller, this is the highest point in the area accessible by trail.
0
0
Lake Morey is a natural freshwater lake located just west of the Connecticut River in the town of Fairlee. This 545 acre lake is largely surrounded by forested hills and is an absolute pleasure to cycle past especially in the fall when the colours are rich and golden. The views out over the lake through its tree lined shore is simply sublime.
0
0
Surrounded by the mountains, forest, and fresh air, enjoy these beautiful New England views around Lake Morey on a ride in Grafton County.
0
0
Great view of one of the ponds in the Barre Town Forest. The forest is unique in that it is found in an old quarry. The ponds were created in the large holes created by the old quarry.
0
0
The Serenity Trail is a popular trail in the Barre Town Forest. It is a great trail that at times gives views of some of the ponds that are scattered throughout the forest.
0
0
With a height of a little more than 1,000 feet, Lyme Hill is a prominent natural feature in the Upper Valley region. Even though the summit is forested, you can catch a glimpse of the surrounding countryside between the trees (if the weather is clear).
0
0
The hike to reach Lyme Hill can be classified between easy and moderate. It's a short trail of .85 miles (one-way) that includes some, not very tough, inclines and is suited for families as well. The path leads through the forest, over wooden bridges and along little creeks.
0
0
Slade Brook Waterfall is a small cascade along the trail of the same name. The trail to reach the waterfalls starts at Connecticut River and leads all the way to Lyme Road, while the waterfalls are situated at the middle point.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Orange County, Vermont?
There are over 30 hiking routes in Orange County, Vermont, and the surrounding areas, ranging from easy walks to more moderate climbs. This includes 15 easy trails and 16 moderate trails, offering a variety of options for different skill levels.
What do hikers enjoy most about the trails in Orange County, Vermont?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Orange County, Vermont, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the serene brooks, forested hills, and the tranquil experience offered by routes like the Barre Town Forest loop via the Serenity Trail.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in Orange County, Vermont?
Yes, you can find a lovely waterfall trail in the area. The Slade Brook Waterfall Trail — Hanover, New Hampshire is an easy 0.8-mile path leading through forested areas to a waterfall, often completed in about 23 minutes.
Are there any loop hikes in Orange County, Vermont?
Yes, several trails in the region are designed as loops, providing a varied hiking experience. Examples include the Barre Town Forest loop via the Serenity Trail, the Spruce Mountain Fire Tower loop from East Montpelier, and the Kents Ledge loop from Royalton.
What are some easy hiking options for families in Orange County, Vermont?
For families looking for easier walks, Orange County offers several gentle routes. The Lyme Hill — New Hampshire trail is an easy 1.7-mile path with gentle ascents, and the Barre Town Forest loop via the Serenity Trail is another easy 2.7-mile option through tranquil woodlands.
Are there any trails that lead to scenic viewpoints or fire towers?
Yes, for those seeking panoramic views, the Spruce Mountain Fire Tower loop from East Montpelier offers a moderate challenge with rewarding vistas. Another option is the Cabin on Gile Mountain – Firetower on Gile Mountain loop from Gile Mountain, which provides access to a fire tower.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Orange County, Vermont?
Hiking in Orange County, Vermont, is characterized by forested hills, serene brooks, and views of the Vermont landscape. Trails often wind through dense woodlands, with some routes leading to higher points like Gile Mountain, offering a mix of gentle and moderate elevation changes.
Are there any longer, moderate hikes in the Orange County, Vermont area?
If you're looking for a longer, moderate hike, consider the Lake Morey – Lake Morey loop from Fairlee, which is approximately 7 miles long. Another option is the Bald Top loop from Fairlee, a moderate 5.6-mile route with significant elevation gain.
Can I find trails near lakes in Orange County, Vermont?
Yes, the region offers trails that feature beautiful lakes. The Lake Morey – Lake Morey loop from Fairlee is a notable moderate route that circles Lake Morey, providing scenic views of the water.
What is the longest moderate trail available in Orange County, Vermont?
Among the moderate trails, the Bald Top loop from Fairlee is one of the longer options, covering approximately 5.6 miles with a significant elevation gain, making it a good choice for a more extended outing.
Are there any trails with significant elevation gain for a good workout?
For a more challenging workout with notable elevation gain, the Bald Top loop from Fairlee features an ascent of over 1,290 feet. The Spruce Mountain Fire Tower loop from East Montpelier also offers a good climb with over 1,050 feet of elevation gain.
Most popular routes in Orange County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Hikes throughout Orange County below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
