You can see Camel's Hump from Burlington, from Montpelier, from seemingly half of Vermont. That distinctive profile—a bump rising to a sharp summit—is as recognizable as any mountain in New England. The Abenaki people called it 'Tah-wah-be-dee-ee-wadso,' the mountain that sits like a seat. Samuel de Champlain marked it on his 1609 map as 'le lion couchant'—the lying lion.
Whatever you call it, Camel's Hump is one of Vermont's essential hikes. At 4,083 feet, it's the state's third-highest peak and one of only two Vermont mountains (along with Mansfield) with true alpine tundra. Unlike Mansfield, there's no road or gondola—you earn every foot of elevation gain on foot.
And that's part of its charm. Camel's Hump feels wild, even with its popularity. The approach through Camel's Hump State Park, the rocky summit scramble, the tiny alpine plants clinging to existence—it all adds up to a quintessential Vermont mountain experience.
Trail Options
Burley Trail (East Side)
- Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 4-5 hours
The shortest and most direct route, climbing steadily from the east. The trail crosses through mixed forest before steepening for the final push to the summit. Well-maintained and well-marked, with good footing most of the way.
Monroe Trail (West Side)
- Distance: 6.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,600 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 5-6 hours
Starting from the Couching Lion Farm in Huntington, Monroe Trail climbs through beautiful hardwood forest before meeting the Long Trail just below the alpine zone. Slightly longer but often less crowded than Burley.
Long Trail from Winooski Valley
- Distance: 8.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 6-8 hours
Approach from the north, following the Long Trail south from Route 2. This is the longest standard route but offers the most continuous trail experience, passing through varied terrain.
Loop Options
With a car shuttle, you can combine routes for a traverse. Monroe up, Burley down (or vice versa) makes for a varied day.
The Climb
In the Forest
All routes begin in the forest, climbing through Vermont's classic northern hardwoods—sugar maple, yellow birch, beech. As you gain elevation, spruce and fir take over, the trees shrinking until finally giving way to wind-blasted krummholz (stunted, twisted trees).
The transition from forest to alpine is gradual but unmistakable. Pay attention to the plants changing around you—it's a journey through ecological zones, from temperate forest to conditions that exist otherwise only in Arctic Canada.
The Alpine Zone
Above treeline, you enter one of Vermont's two true alpine areas. The plants here are tiny, tough, and ancient—some communities are thousands of years old. They survive in a harsh environment of brutal winters, short growing seasons, and constant wind.
Stay on the rocks. Even careful footsteps can destroy years of plant growth. The trails are marked with rock cairns; follow them precisely.
The Summit
Camel's Hump's summit is a small rocky area that feels bigger than its size because of the 360-degree views. On clear days you can see:
- Mount Mansfield to the north
- Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks to the west
- The Worcester Range to the east
- The Green Mountain spine stretching south
Practical Information
Parking
- Burley Trail: Park at the small lot at the end of Camel's Hump Road, Huntington. Limited capacity—arrive early on weekends.
- Monroe Trail: Park at the Couching Lion Farm lot. Donation requested.
Dogs
Allowed on leash, but the alpine zone presents challenges. Dogs can damage fragile vegetation, and the rocky scrambling can be difficult for some dogs. Use good judgment.
Facilities
Primitive composting privy at the summit. No water sources—bring everything you need.
Conditions
The upper mountain is significantly colder and windier than the base. Bring layers year-round. The summit can be clouded in even when valleys are clear—check forecasts but be prepared for weather changes.
When to Go
Best Seasons
- June-October: Prime hiking season. Alpine flowers peak in mid-June.
- Late September: Fall colors are spectacular, especially from the summit.
- May: Snow may linger; trails can be muddy and closed for 'mud season.'
Mud Season Closure
Vermont's Green Mountains have a voluntary mud season closure, typically mid-April through Memorial Day. High-elevation trails are particularly vulnerable when saturated; please respect closures to protect trail surfaces.
Winter
Camel's Hump is a popular winter objective, but don't underestimate it. Full winter gear is essential—crampons, ice axe, insulating layers. The alpine zone in winter is arctic-like, with extreme cold and wind. Only experienced winter hikers should attempt it.
Tips for Success
- Start early. Parking fills up fast, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.
- Bring layers. It's almost always colder and windier on top than you expect.
- Carry plenty of water. There's no reliable water source above the lower trails.
- Plan for the alpine zone. The terrain above treeline is rocky and exposed—good footwear matters.
- Respect the tundra. Stay on marked trails and rock surfaces. The alpine plants are irreplaceable.
Quick Reference: Camel's Hump
| Route | Distance | Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burley Trail | 5.4 mi | 2,200' | Strenuous |
| Monroe Trail | 6.6 mi | 2,600' | Strenuous |
| Long Trail (N) | 8.4 mi | 2,800' | Strenuous |
Camel's Hump is Vermont hiking at its finest—a challenging climb through beautiful forest to a rocky summit with views in every direction. Unlike Mansfield, there's no shortcut; you earn every foot of this one. And when you're standing on the summit, looking out over the Green Mountain State with wind in your face and alpine tundra at your feet, you'll understand why this mountain has been drawing hikers for generations.
