The best walks and hikes in Waterbury Center State Park
4.7
(29)
476
hikers
15
hikes
Hikes in Waterbury Center State Park are centered around the 850-acre Waterbury Reservoir and the surrounding forested landscape of Mount Mansfield State Forest. The area is characterized by its extensive shoreline, rolling hills, and access to more challenging mountain ascents. The trail network includes accessible shoreline paths as well as more demanding routes leading to nearby summits with views of the water.
Best hiking trails in Waterbury Center State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Mount Hunger Summit loop from Waterbury Trail Parking, a 3.8 mile (6.1 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 55 minutes to complete. This route involves a significant climb to the summit.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Mount Hunger and White Rock Mountain via the Waterbury Trail loop — Stowe, Vermont, a difficult 6.2 mile (9.9 km) path. The trail features steep sections and ascents to 2 separate peaks.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Stevenson Brook to Hedgehog Trail loop in Little River State Park — Mount Mansfield State Forest, a 6.4 mile (10.3 km) trail leading through dense forest, often completed in about 3 hours.
- Hiking in Waterbury Center State Park is defined by hikes with lake views, forested paths, and access to mountain summits. The network provides options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to more difficult ascents.
- The routes in Waterbury Center State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 25 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Waterbury Center State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
10.5km
03:05
310m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.96km
01:10
180m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
2
hikers
10.3km
03:01
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
9.92km
04:18
910m
910m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
74
hikers
6.10km
02:54
650m
650m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Waterbury Reservoir offers many recreational opportunities from fishing, canoeing, kayaking, motor-boating, and swimming to hiking and camping. In the warmer months (late spring to early fall), the reservoir is kept at about 850 acres and at a max depth of ~100 feet. In the winter, the surface area is reduced to between 415 - 610 acres to prepare for spring snowmelt and rains. This scenic beach is a great place to relax and dip your feet in the water after a hike in the Little River State Park.
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Not to be confused with White Rocks in southern Vermont, White Rock Mountain in the Worcester Range stands a little shorter than its neighbor, Mount Hunger, at 3,194 feet tall. Although the actual summit is great and a nice place to rest, one of the best parts of White Rock Mountain is just before the top when you step out of the dense woods, and onto a large, open, flat rock slab surrounded by short, stunted trees. From this "table" you can see great views of Mount Hunger to the north.
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This steep section of trail takes you up/down from the summit of Mount Hunger. Following the blue blazes, you must traverse steep sections of slabby granite rock and through short stunted pine trees. This is a fun, but sometimes wet and icy portion of the Middlesex Trail, so use caution and, as always, check conditions before heading up.
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Mount Hunger is located within the Worcester Range and stands at 3,539 feet. Right before hitting the exposed granite summit, you need to do a little, fun scrambling to the top. From the top you can see Mt. Mansfield, the Camels Hump, a large portion of the Green Mountain Range, and on a clear day the Presidentials in the neighboring state of New Hampshire. The exposed summit is a great place to rest, sip some water, and enjoy the fantastic views!
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Did this route 12.27.2020 Spikes are required equipment, but ascending late in the day may mean the snow over is already scraped off and you’ll need to spike the rock face. Excellent backyard challenge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Waterbury Center State Park?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Waterbury Center State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the park?
Absolutely. The Peninsula Nature Trail is an excellent choice for families. It's an easy, half-mile loop that takes about 30 minutes and features interpretive signs about the area's history and nature, making it both fun and educational for children.
What are the parking options for the hiking trails?
There is a designated parking area within Waterbury Center State Park. It's worth noting that this is a popular spot, especially on weekends and during the summer, so the parking lot can fill up quickly. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
Can I go for a swim in the reservoir after a hike?
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at the Waterbury Reservoir. The park has a designated swimming beach, which is a great way to cool off after exploring the trails.
Are there any challenging hikes available for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the area offers difficult ascents. A great option is the Mount Hunger and White Rock Mountain via the Waterbury Trail loop. This demanding 6.2-mile (9.9 km) route involves steep sections and climbs to two different peaks, rewarding you with expansive views.
What is the best time of year to hike in Waterbury Center State Park?
The park is most popular from late spring through fall. Summer offers warm weather perfect for combining a hike with swimming in the reservoir. Autumn is spectacular, as the forests around the water display vibrant fall colors. Trails can be icy in winter and muddy in early spring, so be sure to check conditions before you go.
Are the trails accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, the park features a universally accessible trail that follows the shoreline. This path is wide, has a packed stone dust surface, and maintains a gentle slope, making it well-suited for both wheelchairs and strollers. It also provides beautiful views across the reservoir.
Which hikes offer the best views of the Waterbury Reservoir?
For a moderate hike with rewarding scenery, the Chases Mountain loop provides excellent vantage points over the surrounding landscape, including the reservoir. For easier, more direct water views, the shoreline trail offers continuous, beautiful vistas right along the water's edge.
What do other hikers enjoy most about this area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the combination of accessible, well-maintained trails and the stunning scenery of the Waterbury Reservoir. The ability to pair a forest hike with water activities like swimming and kayaking is a frequently mentioned highlight.
Are there places to have a picnic or barbecue?
Yes, the park is well-equipped for picnics. You'll find numerous picnic sites, many with tables and grills available for use. It's a perfect spot for a post-hike meal with a view of the reservoir.
What other activities are available besides hiking?
Waterbury Center State Park is a hub for recreation. The reservoir is the main attraction for water sports, including swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Boat rentals are available within the park. It's also a great place for wildlife viewing, with chances to see loons, herons, and even bald eagles.
How do the trails here compare to nearby Little River State Park?
Both parks are part of the greater Mount Mansfield State Forest and are centered on the Waterbury Reservoir, but they offer slightly different experiences. Waterbury Center State Park is known for its accessible shoreline trails and day-use facilities. Little River is larger and offers more extensive, forested trail networks, including routes like the Stevenson Brook to Hedgehog Trail loop, which are great for longer, more secluded woodland hikes.
Most popular routes in Waterbury Center State Park
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