Pico Peak lives in Killington's shadow—literally. This 3,957-foot summit sits just north of Vermont's second-highest peak, and most hikers pass through on their way to or from the more famous neighbor. Their loss: Pico offers a more interesting trail, better summit views, and a fraction of the crowds.
Accessed via the Long Trail, Pico delivers a quintessential Vermont hiking experience: steep forest trails, rocky outcrops with views, and the satisfaction of standing atop one of the Green Mountains' significant summits.
Trail Options
Long Trail from Sherburne Pass (Route 4)
- Distance: 5.8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,950 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The standard route follows the Long Trail northbound from Route 4 near Killington. The trail climbs steadily through hardwood forest, passing the Inn at Long Trail, before steepening significantly for the final push to Pico Camp and the summit. A spur trail leads from Pico Camp to the actual peak.
Via Killington Gondola (Summer)
- Distance: 4.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
When Killington's K-1 Gondola operates in summer, you can ride up and hike the Long Trail north to Pico. This eliminates significant elevation gain but requires gondola fare and operating hours. Check with the resort for current schedules.
Pico + Killington Loop
- Distance: 10+ miles
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
Ambitious hikers can bag both peaks in a single day, traversing the Long Trail between them. It's a long day but efficient for peak-baggers.
The Summit
Pico's summit is partially developed due to the ski area, with the top of a chairlift nearby. But move away from the infrastructure and you'll find open ledges with excellent views:
- South: Killington Peak dominates the view
- West: Rutland and the Taconics beyond
- North: The main Green Mountain ridge stretching toward Mansfield
- East: The White Mountains on clear days
The views toward Killington are particularly impressive—you get a perspective on Vermont's second-highest peak that most hikers miss.
Pico Camp
Just below the summit, Pico Camp is a Long Trail shelter offering overnight stays:
- Enclosed cabin with bunks
- Caretaker in residence (summer)
- Fee for overnight stays
- Water source nearby
It's a great option for breaking up a Long Trail section hike or for enjoying sunset and sunrise from Pico's summit without headlamp hiking.
When to Hike
- Late May through October: Best conditions
- Summer: Gondola option available (check resort schedule)
- Fall foliage: Outstanding views of color from the summit
- Winter: Ski area operates; hiking not practical
- Mud season: Long Trail can be extremely muddy; many sections close
Crowd Avoidance
Pico sees far less traffic than Killington. On days when Killington's trails are packed, you might share Pico's summit with only a handful of others.
Practical Information
Trailhead Access
The primary trailhead is at Sherburne Pass on Route 4, about 10 miles east of Rutland. Parking is available at the Inn at Long Trail.
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Plenty of water
- Layers for the exposed summit
- Trekking poles for the steep sections
Nearby Options
If you're in the Killington area:
- Killington Peak: The big neighbor to the south
- Deer Leap: A shorter hike with cliff-top views
- Thundering Falls: An easy waterfall walk
Quick Reference
| Route | Distance | Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| From Route 4 | 5.8 mi | 1,950 ft | Strenuous |
| Via Gondola | 4.0 mi | 1,200 ft | Moderate |
Pico Peak offers everything you want from a Vermont summit hike—challenging trails, excellent views, and genuine mountain character—without the crowds that flock to more famous peaks. Consider it the insider's choice for hiking in the Killington area.
