Mt Ascutney

Well, this place is basically my backyard for now. So, I spend a lot of time here. The view of the mountain is always dynamic and awe inspiring. So if you stay around the area it is well worth the views. Also there are a few ways to explore it. You can drive to the top for 5 dollars and hike for about 40 mins to the summit. There is a tower you can climb that will give you incredible views. You can see for about 50 miles out on a clear day. If you don’t want to pay the 5 dollars you can hike in on some of the trails at the bottom of the mountain. It’s about 3 hours up and a few hours down. So bring necessary gear for the trip! Well worth it either way you decide to go. Have fun!

My first 14er. Harrowing trip up. My friend left the oxygen at home. His mummified body will mark the path for future hikers. I was the only survivor. Restrooms were clean. Overall, 5 stars.

There are four trails to the summit of Mt. Ascutney, each offers a significantly different hiking experience. The easiest is the Weathersfield trail--shorter and less steep, it features several long zig zags up Ascutney's northern slope which last much of the way to the summit(and even traverses downward at one point) --near the top of the trail, the path has a steeper incline and features a steep stretch of over boulders hiking. This hike takes about 2.5 hours to top in good weather. The steepest trail but not the longest, the Windsor trail (south side of Mt Ascutney and not far from the Brownsville trail) is the shortest at 2.7 miles and makes for a more tough climb most of the way--but still very hikable--water and a snack would be wise. The hike takes 3 to 3.25 hours. It is not exceptionally beautiful, but it is challenging for those who prefer that in a hike. There are several paths to views before reaching the most amazing rock formation along this trail--a stone grotto (walls on both sides, wide flat bottom) of sorts and a path snakes through it as an off shoot to the Weatherfield trail. The Brownsville trail, most beautiful of the three mentioned, winds it's way up the south east side of Ascutney past a granite quarry, over rock stairs, past walls of boulders covered in ferns and moss. The Brownsville trail is up close and personal for those who want to see nature up close. There are views to the east too; from the quarry and nearer the top before the summit, a path can be taken to a outcrop of massive boulders with deep fissures--the view is of the northeast mountains of Vermont and NH. The Brownsville trail and Weathersfield trail meet up near the summit at an old (now demolished) stone hut site. The rest of the walk is a cinch as it is a near flat path to the look out tower. The main road and trails associated with it is the longest way to the top. The road snakes up the mountain and it takes about 15 minutes or more to reach the viewing area (not the summit). This is a state run park, closed between mid October to mid May. The trails however are frequented daily, in all seasons by fans of the mountain, hiking enthusiasts. You are likely to pass someone if you hike at Ascutney, but it is rarely crowded. A 360 expansive view from the summit is obtained only from the observation tower. It is not necessarily open when the park is closed for the season.

We had never been to this area of Vermont and were so glad we went at Christmas. Vermont is a beautiful state and this area is absolutely gorgeous.

The Summit Trail was a very beautiful and easy hike, with a bit of climbing. The observation tower at the top was icing on the cake; we could see beautiful peaks in the distance and the valleys and farmland in between.

Nice easy summit to climb, had perfect weather and skies to see all around. $4 per person to enter. Ranger was at the top to give out info on the mountain.

East climb upto summit as the road takes you all the way. £5pp for road and was open 30 min before sunset. Only 0.7miles from the top of the road to the summit on. The fast route. Great easy stop over enroute to Burlington from Boston

well kept campsites, good area for biking, great view accessible by car or hiking trails at the peak

This one will be hard to relive... its been two weeks and we still are emotionally and physically recovering from this hike. We are still to this day on our hands and knees picking up the pieces to a broken relationship. Caused by yes you guessed it, Mt. Ascutney. We wake up, eager to start our day, After a hectic dinner (peep Sawtooth review) we were ready for a fresh start, and dom finally took off the mascot costume. "I'm starving, I haven't eaten since the DOUBLE burger last night." "Theres no time, we need to conquer him." We both look in the distance to Mt. Ascutney and we are on the same page. We need a WIN. We probably hop skip and hike our asses to the parking lot where we drive over. Not much there. We get out and are met with a ridiculously humid day after the weather app misinformed us about a 78 degree day. with a slight chance of RAINNNNNN (No Snapple Element) We start on our expedition up this treacherous path. Our first warning comes to us. A woman running for her life to her car, pratically levitating (No Dua Lipa) down the mountain as if a mysterious force (mint) was calling for her. We turn to each other and figure "Hey this might not be too bad." (look into camera) little did we know she was just estatic to be freed from the shackles of Mt. Ascutney. We shake off (No Taylor) the first step jitters and get on our merry way. As we continue up the mountain, I begin throwing distractions at Dom so he doesnt notice the silence. "How was your week?" (I didn't care one bit, just focusing on my breathing pattern) Slowly but surely the altitude catches up with us, guys we are at LEAST 1,000 feet above sea level. And we might as well jumped into that same sea with the amount of sweat we were producing. Embarassed we let yum yums pass... We stop, to admire the view and kill time. Little did we know this mountain was killing us. Frazzled, our thoughts begin getting the best of us. I have no other choice but to make up scenarios where I kill Dom. Looking at each other we know what had to be done, we cant conquer this mountain we must turn back. DID YOU REALLY THINK WE DID THAT. IF YOU DID, DONT READ THE REST OF THIS REVIEW YOU DONT KNOW THE FIRST THING ABOUT US. We say, hey if people need help, we help. We are people, and we need help. After taking a measily four steps down the mountain we remember who the FUCK we are. We are Ariaanddom. What would our yelp followers, friends, family, service workers, first responders (fuck it) and most importantly John Taboada think of us. We persevered up this mountain. For another .2 miles and then we realize this was crazy people shit. And went and got a mint. We tapped into sandwiches too, please take a look at our next review.

We pulled up to the ticket booth just off the main road at around 2:15 p.m. on a weekday. After paying our $5 per person, it took another 15 - 20 minutes to drive up the twisting road to the parking lot closest to the summit. There was only one other car parked there, though the lot looked like it could hold 35 - 40 cars. The hike from there was then a minimum of 0.6 miles (rocky and occasionally steep) to a lookout tower (25 feet tall, maybe). The summit was another 0.1 miles but probably wasn't even as high as the tower. We took the Slot trail up since it appeared to be more gradual (but was a bit longer). On the way back, we opted for the other option: the Slab trail (which was steeper but had steps cut into the dirt or fashioned from large stones, in spots). I would classify this hike as short but moderate. The tower views were pretty nice. It probably took us a bit over an hour to hike up and back.

Wow!!! What else can I say but wow! We came here because my so nice of a wife wanted to try to end my life sooner then need be. This hike since I'm not in hiking shape was a rough one. When you get there, you kinda look up and go ok this won't be bad. Oooof. I was wrong. The trail seriously went straight up for 3 miles. My legs were dying. I'm not dead like dead dead but I'm hurting and my legs are feeling it. Hopefully they won't be sore since I'm still pretty active. When you hike, you got to be careful because some spots the rocks have water and algae grown on them and you will eat the dirt if you step and are not careful. The foliage from the leaves were really pretty. I think I would of enjoyed my 3 mile straight up walk if I were in better shape. This one is definitely a hard one and should be treated as such. Go with a partner.

I camped at Mt. Ascutney State Park for Memorial Day weekend, and it was the best camping experience I've ever had. We stayed in one of the leanto sites, which was a smart choice because there was one night where it down-poured, but we stayed completely dry! The leanto was clean, and came with a broom. Our site also came with a picnic table, a bench, and a campfire with a grill on top (usual camp site amenities). I enjoyed the site because the park was quiet and clean, and was easily accessible from I-91. There are also flush toilets available, and showers that you can pay for (I paid 4 quarters for 10 minutes of hot shower water). There are also sinks and power outlets in the bathroom. I was impressed with the cleanliness the of bathroom facilities. Staff at the entrance station were friendly, and always waved to us when we were arriving or leaving the park. There is fire wood for purchase (I paid $12 for two bundles of wood) and bags of ice are available for purchase as well. We hiked the Weathersfield Trail of Mt. Ascutney - It's definitely a challenging trail for someone who does not regularly hike! Expect a pretty steep incline, and rocky surfaces. There are small waterfalls along the way. The hike it worth it! My favorite spot for incredible views was the hang glider launch area. The summit isn't anything impressive, but there is a lookout station with 360 degree views. If you're looking to do things in the local area, go to the Harpoon Brewery (about 8 miles away) or the Sugarbush Farm for free cheese and maple syrup tastings (about 20 miles away).

Worth the 4$ pp to drive through such incredible natural beauty up to the summit. Fantastic one hour of my time spent. You can bring lunch and make a day of it but we were traveling and I am so glad we took the time.

Great place to camp, walk up to the top of Ascutney, and follow the trails... It's sad but one of the drawbacks is your in the woods but sit on top of Highway 91, A very busy highway as well....

Cool drive up to the summit of the mountain at the bargain price of $4 pp. The drive is 3.7 miles with 2,300' elevation gain. Save your scenic vista pull outs for the drive down. Your brakes will appreciate the rest! The road takes you to the saddle between South Peak and West Peak and the summit. It's about a 3/4 mile hike to the summit. Ascutney is known for being a premier hang gliding site, with 2 launch locations. If you happen to be there during prime gliding weather, be prepared to sit back, put your feet up and enjoy the spectacle. It is really an extraordinary site. The parking lot has a beautiful view west. For sunset. Just be aware that you will then need to drive down the road in the dark.

Mt Ascutney is a lonely and majestic mountain. It stands alone tall and proud. It is not part of a mountain range like most other mountains in VT. Ascutney State Park is a fantastic park that offers trails, and camping, and a access road that goes 3/4 way to the top. Open May-Oct. the park is a great spot to take advantage of some fantastic views on top. One the top, of the mountain is Brownsville Rock, a big open ledge which is popular with hang gliders who love to jump off here. One a year, in June there is a Ascutney Day where everyone climbs up to the top and enjoys a free picnic lunch. Also climbers, be aware that there is several more good trails that go up the mountain. Brownsville Trail. Located on Rt 44 A and Rt 44 intersection. Windsor Trail. On Rt 44 a bit South of Brownsville trail, across from the Yates Sheep Farm. Cascade Fall Trail. Located in Weathersfield. My personal favorite.

Pretty decent campground. It is close to the freeway so it's not as serene as many other VT state parks, but the convenient location makes it a good stop for I-91 travelers. Its a heavily wooded park so there's plenty of privacy. Some sites are a hike to the bathrooms. If you are there during daylight the trip up to the mountain overlooks is definitely worth it. Harpoon brewery is 8 mi away, great for tasting and a meal. Along the way you'll go through the town of Windsor which is very cute. Also consider the charming little town of Bellows Falls nearby for exploring/sightseeing. The fish ladder museum offers an interesting diversion (pun intended). The Miss Bellows Falls Diner offers old time dining car atmosphere and greasy spoon goodness.

Only had time for a relatively short hike, but this worked out quite well for that purpose. Was in the area for the weekend and was looking to get the blood pumping on an overcast day and had the heart set on a hike. We checked in at the ranger station at the main entrance off Route 44A. The young man working at the station was able to provide some options regarding the hikes that might be suitable for the amount of time we had available. After discussing it with him, we opted to drive up to the pavilion and hike a portion of the Futures Trail. While this was considered a toll road, we did pay a few extra bucks to use the road. The road has been recently repaved and is quite smooth and twists and turns up the mountain. Once we got on the trail, we had it to ourselves for the duration of the trip. We hiked up for about an hour, ending with a walk down a short trail radiating off the Futures Trail called Steam Donkey. Not having read the particulars on the map at that point, we were quite curious about what the Steam Donkey would be. Turns out it was a contraption used in the logging industry, though when you get there you will realize that it has not been used in a long, long time. An hour long ascent took about 45 minutes to descend. The hike was relatively steep in many parts and we left thinking that it was a worthwhile excursion. We both wished we had more time so that we could make it to the summit. Another day.... On our return to Ascutney ski area, you pass parking lots where the Windsor and Brownsville trails leave from. These lots were far more packed, as there is no entrance fee charged at those lots (that's my guess at least). Both those trails are shorter than the Futures Trail, so could be a good option if you are looking to summit from the start of the trail. If I return to the area, I'd like to visit again in order to explore this beautiful park even more.

I came here to hike the Weathersfield Trail. It's a little confusing to find (you have to drive away from the main entrance to a side parking lot about 3-4 miles away), but the rangers at the "check in" area were very helpful. The trail was very well maintained, well marked, and quite scenic. There is hang gliding of off the top of the mountain, and it's a gorgeous view from the platform. The summit is a bit disappointing, it's a cleared out area with a tower on it. The views are obstructed. If you're hiking up, I highly recommend going to the summit just because you would hike to the summit, but having lunch/break/rest at West Peak, which is where the hang gliding platform is. We really enjoyed the hike, and it's one I would do again. You can also drive up to within .5 miles from the summit/West Peak.

I've camped in Mt. Ascutney State Park for two years running now on Columbus Day weekend. It's the last weekend the park is open for camping for the season and it's the weekend the nearby Harpoon Brewery throws their annual Oktoberfest. Guess why I'm there? Really this is a very beautiful and fairly large campground. I love the online reservation system and the prices are definitely reasonable. There are nice hiking trails a short distance from the campsites and if you like you can go straight to the mountaintop. (Don't judge me if I'd rather drink beers around a campfire and chill with my dog.) There are pay showers, and ice and wood for sale at the ranger station. The staff is about 50/50 nice to gruff ratio, but other people are friendly by and large and last year we befriended a nice Quebecois couple who were there celebrating Thanksgiving (in October, oh those Canadians, so zany!). The point is - I can't wait to return, but it's more about the delicious Harpoon brews I plan to drink and less about the merely passable ground I will be sleeping on.

Back for a second trip at the same time of year. No bathroom issues like last year and the park ranger, Mark, was really helpful and friendly. Our two campsites for our group were perfectly clean and aside from the sounds of nearby I91, quite peaceful. Um, how did we miss traveling to the top of Mt Ascutney to enjoy the beautiful views? We drove up the approximately 4 mile road - because let's face it, we're not that adventurous with 2 small kids to hike/bike up. One word - GORGEOUS! Being a perfectly sunny and beautiful day I am sure helped. But I imagine the views are still pretty awesome no matter the weather. We're pretty certain we'll be back in this part of VT at this time again next year. Same weekend as the Harpoon BBQ competition/festival ;) We'll definitely pick Ascutney.

Awesome ride up! Great views ... we went during the fall so the colors made it even more amazing. Couple of scenic stops as you drive, make sure you take time to stop in and enjoy all! Ride down was a bit steep and scary but definitely fun!

Great park. My boyfriend and I hit the top of Mt. Ascutney last Saturday morning, driving the steep 4-mile road to the summit parking lot then hiking to the edges with gorgeous views. The trails were beautiful, and they led to different areas, including one that looks like a hang gliding jump-off point (I have no idea who would actually jump off that edge, if that's even what it's for, but to each their own), and to the fire tower, where we could climb up some stairs and see vast amounts of Vermont land from the top. We went on different trails and hiked a sort of loop to get to both points, running into the crossroads between other trails at every turn. The trails were a little confusing - none of the trees were marked, but there were signs here and there, and we could have pulled up a map on my phone if we needed to. Either way, we eventually found our way back to our car, and we passed some more scenic views and walked through beautiful paths lined by rock formations and orange ferns on the way. Even if we got sidetracked, it was a lovely hike. Note: If you do drive up to the summit, you might notice the smell of burning rubber on the way up. That's probably the cars on the way down with their brakes. It's a steep road, and once we got to the bottom and parked, our brakes were smoking up a storm. We jumped out of the car and freaked out, but a friendly park ranger came out and said it was just our brakes getting too hot and it happens all the time, especially to minivans, and the minivan drivers always stop and freak out. We took a little Corolla up, and despite the smoky brakes, we made it to all our Vermont destinations and back to Connecticut just fine. Bonus: Harpoon Brewery is just 10 minutes away.

Hiked the Windsor Trail, it was beautiful and challenging! Approx. 5-6 miles round trip, steep grade, falling water, well maintained trail with some great views from a few different spots near the top as well as a viewing tower. The summit is not as pristine as the rest of the hike due to two enormous cell phone/tech towers but these were not noticeable at all from the trail. Best part of the hike? Hitting the Harpoon Brewery beer garden on the way home!

This park is amazing. The ranger and his partner are the most hospitable, warm people I've met at a state park. The sites and bathrooms are very clean and perfectly equipped. Everyone on staff was so welcoming and considerate to everyone staying there. Good vibes, great people, fantastic mountain to hike.

Camped here a couple weeks ago for 2 nights. Well kept campground and facilities, and some great hiking almost right out of the tent. Hikes can be as long or as short as you want, depending on how far up you drive initially. Love this place!