Mount Ascutney: 2 Routes to Vermont's Most Famous "Volcano"
- Stephen Warner
- Dec 22, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 3
A volcano in Vermont? Really? While geologists still debate exactly how Mount Ascutney formed, one thing’s for sure—it makes for a fantastic hike. With several different routes leading to its summit, this standout mountain is well worth a visit.
Trail Info
Trailhead Name | Weathersfield / Windsor Trail |
Distance | Weathersfield: 5.3 miles / 8.5 km (out and back) Windsor: 5.7 miles / 9.2 km (out and back) |
Estimated time | 3-5 hours |
Elevation gain | Weathersfield: 2,100 feet / 760 m Windsor: 2,500 feet / 690 m |
Highest point | 3,101 ft / 945 m (Mount Ascutney) |
Permits / fees | None |
Parking | Dirt lot |
Toilets? | No |
Dog friendly? | Yes |
Know before you go
These trails are closed during mud season—usually April through May. It’s a bummer if that’s when you’re visiting, but honestly, it’s not great hiking anyway and walking on muddy trails can do real damage.
In winter, this area is also popular for cross-country skiing—especially the Windsor side, which connects to ski-specific trails.
Other routes like Brownsville, Futures, and Summit Trail exist, but I’m focusing on the Weathersfield and Windsor Trails here since I haven’t done the others (yet!).
Which route should I choose?
Both trails are fairly similar in difficulty and technical challenge, but here are a few key differences:
Windsor Trail has a more consistent grade. Weathersfield includes a few sharper climbs, including a steep staircase section that stands out.
Windsor Trail is easier to access. It’s closer to I-91 and located directly off Highway 44. In contrast, Weathersfield requires a drive up a dirt road.
River crossings are present on both trails, but Windsor’s are longer and trickier—especially in winter, when they turn into icy crossings.
Weathersfield has more landmarks, including the beautiful Cascade Falls and a number of lookouts that are basically right on the trail. Windsor has scenic detours too, but they require more off-trail distance.
Weathersfield Trail
Weathersfield Trail begins right from the parking lot on a clearly marked path. Look for white blazes and signage. Navigation is straightforward unless you’re hiking after a big snowstorm.
Not long into the hike, you’ll come across Little Cascade Falls. I haven’t seen it flowing in the summer yet, but frozen in winter? Stunning. I imagine it’s equally beautiful when it’s running.
You’ll soon follow markers to a small stream crossing....well, an ice crossing in my case. It’s short and manageable in most conditions.
Next up: what I consider the trickiest part of the trail. A steep, rocky climb followed by a staircase that can get icy. If you're hiking in winter or shoulder season, microspikes are non-negotiable.
Shortly after that, you’ll reach a junction where you can take a short detour (just 0.1 miles) to Cascade Falls. Totally worth it.
Even frozen over, Cascade Falls is a beautiful side quest. There’s also a nice overlook of the surrounding mountains here, making it a great excuse for a breather.
Back on the main trail, the ascent continues at a steady 20–30% grade. It’s a solid workout, but hiking through a snow-dusted forest made it feel almost therapeutic.
You’ll pass several great lookout spots along the way. Harry’s Lookout offers western views (possibly even the Green Mountains), while Gus’s Lookout gives you southern views. Other highlights include West Peak and the Hang Glider Launch area. Take the time to visit at least a few. They make this hike extra special.
As you near the summit, you’ll encounter junctions with other trails. Just keep following signs for the Observation Tower. That’s where the real views await.
Made it! That first structure is a communications tower, but the true summit is just beyond it at the observation tower. We’ll get to those views in a sec…
Windsor Trail
Windsor has a very different feel from the start. After parking (note: the lot is small), you’ll cross an open field before entering the forest.
Like Weathersfield, the trail is well-marked with signs and blazes throughout. No navigation issues here.
As you climb, you’ll probably hear water flowing to your left. That’s the stream you’ll eventually cross. It adds nice ambiance… and also a reminder of the icy challenge ahead.
I wanted to show this comparison photo, taken in nearly the same spot one year apart. One version is a winter wonderland, the other is dry ground. Just goes to show how variable conditions can be, even in the same month.
Here’s that river crossing I mentioned. You’ll cross this river twice on the way up and twice on the way down. Ropes help with balance, but again, ice is a real factor. Bring your spikes.
Once past the crossings, the trail winds steadily uphill through the woods. There are more junctions here than on Weathersfield because many of the alternate Ascutney trails converge on this side. Stick to signs for Windsor Trail and the Observation Tower and you’ll stay on track.
Mount Ascutney Summit
And here it is—the observation tower! Sure, it’s manmade, but when it gets you above the trees for full panoramic views, I’ll take it. Facing west here, you’ll spot Killington Ski Resort, aka the “Beast of the East," and one of Vermont's 4,000+ foot peaks.
One of my favorite features at the top: direction markers that identify the peaks and landscapes in each direction. Super helpful and a nice little bonus.
If the wind cooperates, you’ll get a calm, sweeping 360° view. Every direction offers something different.
What a beautiful day and a beautiful hike!
SS Reflections
Most of my time in this region was spent chasing New Hampshire’s 4,000-footers, but this hike really stuck with me. It’s convenient, offers a legit challenge, and gives you a taste of trail variety that’s hard to find in this part of Vermont. I just hope I get the chance to come back someday and explore the other three trails to this amazing summit.
Other Helpful Resources
Vermont State Parks page about the many hiking trails that can be found in Ascutney State Park
One local geologist's take on why Mount Ascutney is not a volcano