Ask Vermont hikers about their favorite local summit and Mount Hunger comes up more than any other. This 3,539-foot peak in the Worcester Range combines challenging terrain with a spectacular exposed granite summit and views that take in virtually every major peak in the northern Green Mountains.
The trail is steep and rocky—you'll earn your views—but the payoff is extraordinary. On a clear day, you can see from Killington in the south to Jay Peak near the Canadian border, with Mansfield, Camel's Hump, and the Whites of New Hampshire filling the panorama.
Trail Options
Waterbury Trail (Most Popular)
- Distance: 4.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,290 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The standard route climbs steadily from the east, gaining nearly 600 feet per mile. The trail passes through hardwood forest before entering spruce-fir zone and finally emerging onto the open granite summit dome. Expect 3-4 hours for the round trip.
Middlesex Trail
- Distance: 4.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
A slightly longer approach from the west, offering a different perspective and often fewer crowds. The trails meet near the summit, allowing for a loop if you arrange a car shuttle.
The Summit Experience
Mount Hunger's summit is a dome of exposed granite—a perfect natural observation platform with room for many hikers and panoramic views in every direction:
- West: Camel's Hump and the main Green Mountain ridge
- Northwest: Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak
- North: Jay Peak and the Canadian border peaks
- East: Worcester Range peaks and the White Mountains beyond
- South: The Green Mountains rolling toward Killington
On clear days, visibility extends over 100 miles. Bring a peak identification guide or app—you'll spend time naming mountains.
Trail Conditions
Mount Hunger's trails have earned a reputation for difficulty:
- Steepness: The average grade is steep; expect to work
- Rocks and roots: The trail is rough underfoot, requiring attention
- Wet sections: Mud and running water are common, especially in spring
- Exposed summit: No shelter from weather once you emerge above treeline
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots (not trail runners)
- Trekking poles (very helpful on descent)
- Extra layers (summit exposure)
- Plenty of water (no reliable sources)
When to Hike
- Late May through October: Best conditions
- Fall foliage: Spectacular from the summit—arrive early
- Summer weekends: Very popular; expect company
- Winter: Challenging but beautiful; full winter gear required
Crowd Avoidance
Mount Hunger is one of Vermont's most popular hikes. For solitude:
- Start before 7 AM
- Hike on weekdays
- Consider the Middlesex Trail (less trafficked)
- Visit in shoulder seasons (May, late October)
Practical Information
Trailhead Access
Waterbury Trail: From Waterbury Center, follow signs to the trailhead on Sweet Farm Road. Parking is limited—arrive early on weekends.
Middlesex Trail: Access from Chase Road in Middlesex. Smaller trailhead with less parking pressure.
Nearby Options
If Mount Hunger's parking lot is full or you want variety:
- Stowe Pinnacle: Shorter hike with similar views
- White Rocks: A Worcester Range option with interesting geology
- Worcester Mountain: The Range's highest peak, less crowded
Quick Reference
| Route | Distance | Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterbury Trail | 4.0 mi | 2,290 ft | Strenuous |
| Middlesex Trail | 4.6 mi | 2,400 ft | Strenuous |
Mount Hunger delivers the quintessential Vermont hiking experience—a challenging climb rewarded with one of the finest summit views in the state. That bare granite dome, surrounded by 360 degrees of Green Mountain scenery, is worth every step of the steep trail. This is why people hike in Vermont.
