10 Fun Things To Do Near Huntington, Vermont (Chittenden County)
If you’re dreaming about a quiet corner of Vermont with big mountains, country roads, and that “everyone-knows-your-name” feeling,
Huntington, Vermont should be on your radar. Tucked in Chittenden County, just southeast of Burlington, this small town sits right up against the spine of the Green Mountains.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend, a foliage road trip, or you’re a local looking for new ideas, here are
10 things to do in and around Huntington, VT that show off the best of this cozy part of the state.
1. Hike the Trails at Camels Hump State Park
If there’s one thing you can’t miss near Huntington, it’s
Camels Hump. This classic Vermont peak is one of the most recognizable mountains in the state and sits right on Huntington’s doorstep.
You’ll find several trailheads off Camel’s Hump Road and nearby backroads. Popular options include:
- Burrows Trail – A shorter but steeper route, around 5 miles round-trip, that gets you up quickly.
- Forest City / Long Trail loop – A longer loop that gives you more time in the woods and a taste of the famous Long Trail.
On a clear day, you can see all the way to Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and across the Green Mountains. It’s windy at the top, so bring a layer, even in summer.
If you’re not up for a summit hike, you can still enjoy easier walks at lower elevations and soak in the forest and mountain views.
Keyword tip: If you love
Vermont hiking near Burlington, Camels Hump near Huntington is one of the best choices.
2. Explore the Birds (and Views) at the Birds of Vermont Museum
Just a short drive from Huntington, over in nearby Huntington Center, you’ll find the
Birds of Vermont Museum – a small, peaceful spot that surprises a lot of visitors.
Inside, you’ll see hand-carved wooden birds, detailed dioramas, and displays that highlight the many species that live in Vermont. Outside, there are quiet nature trails and bird feeders where you can watch real birds up close.
It’s a great stop if you’re:
- Traveling with kids
- Looking for a rainy-day activity near Huntington
- Curious about local wildlife and ecology
Take your time on the trails. You might spot chickadees, woodpeckers, warblers, and more. It feels more like wandering around a friend’s property than visiting a big, formal museum, and that’s part of the charm.
3. Drive the Scenic Huntington Road & Vermont Backroads
Sometimes the best thing to do in rural Vermont is simple: go for a drive.
The main road through town, often just called
Huntington Road, winds along the river and farmland, with frequent peeks at mountain ridges. In late September and early October, the foliage along these backroads is spectacular – orange, gold, and deep red leaves everywhere you look.
Here’s an easy loop idea:
- Start in Huntington
- Follow Huntington Road toward Richmond
- Loop back via Hinesburg or another backroad
Stop at small pull-offs, walk a bit along the river, and snap photos of covered bridges and barns. This is the kind of drive where you roll down your windows, slow way down, and just enjoy being in Vermont.
4. Picnic and Play at Huntington Gorge and the River Areas
The
Huntington River runs right through town, and there are a few spots where you can park, walk down, and enjoy the water. In the summer, locals come to wade, cool off, and relax on the rocks.
Important note: Some parts of the
Huntington Gorge can be dangerous due to strong currents and slippery rocks. Always read signs, stay back from fast-moving water, and don’t assume it’s safe just because someone else is in the water.
That said, there are calmer sections where you can:
- Spread out a picnic blanket
- Skip stones across the water
- Walk along the banks and listen to the river
If you’re looking for a low-key afternoon near Huntington, this is a relaxing option.
5. Visit Nearby Richmond for Coffee, Covered Bridges, and Small-Town Charm
When you want a little more bustle but still crave that small-town feel, head down the road to
Richmond, Vermont, just northwest of Huntington.
A few ideas:
- Walk across the famous Richmond covered bridge (The Checkered House Bridge is also nearby).
- Grab a coffee or snack at a local café and people-watch.
- Stroll the village streets and check out the historic buildings.
Richmond is a great “base camp” if you’re visiting Huntington and want easy access to groceries, restaurants, and gas, without driving all the way into Burlington.
6. Enjoy Local Farms, Stands, and Seasonal Produce
One of the underrated things to do near Huntington, VT is to simply follow your nose (and your GPS) to nearby
farms and farm stands.
In season, you might find:
- Fresh berries, apples, and sweet corn
- Maple syrup, jams, and baked goods
- Local cheeses and farm-raised meats
Some small farms around Huntington, Richmond, or Hinesburg offer “self-serve” stands where you leave cash in a box or use a mobile payment app. Others have scheduled hours.
If you’ve only ever shopped in big grocery stores, this is a fun, very Vermont way to get your food. Plus, you’re supporting local families who keep the landscape open and beautiful.
7. Head to Burlington for a Day Trip on Lake Champlain
Huntington feels delightfully remote, but you’re still only about 30–40 minutes from
Burlington, Vermont, the state’s largest city. That makes it easy to mix quiet mountain time with a day on
Lake Champlain.
Ideas for a Burlington day trip:
- Walk or bike along the Burlington Bike Path with lake and mountain views.
- Enjoy a sunset from the Waterfront Park.
- Grab dinner on Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only shopping and dining area.
After a busy day in Burlington, the drive back to Huntington feels like you’re returning to your peaceful home base in the mountains.
8. Ski, Ride, or Snowshoe in the Green Mountains
If you’re visiting Huntington in winter, you’re in a sweet spot for snow sports. You’re close to several popular ski areas in Chittenden County and neighboring regions.
Within an easy drive, you can:
- Ski or ride at Bolton Valley – a family-friendly mountain with night skiing and a fun, low-key vibe.
- Head a bit farther to Stowe or Mad River Glen for classic Vermont ski experiences.
- Snowshoe on local trails near Huntington or along the lower slopes of Camels Hump (always check conditions).
Even if you’re not a hardcore skier, simply driving through the snow-covered hills, stopping for hot chocolate, and watching the snow fall can make a winter trip to Huntington feel magical.
9. Chase Fall Foliage on Country Roads and Mountain Trails
If there’s one season when Huntington, Vermont truly shines, it’s
fall
Take a slow drive up and down Camel’s Hump Road.
Walk short sections of hiking trails instead of doing big climbs.
Stop at farm stands for fresh cider, doughnuts, and maple goodies.
Think about planning your visit between late September and mid-October for peak foliage, though timing can vary year to year. Even if you miss “peak,” Vermont in shoulder season is still beautiful.
10. Relax and Unplug in Small-Town Vermont
One of the best things to do in Huntington isn’t really an “activity” at all: it’s the chance to slow down.
In this quiet pocket of Chittenden County, you can:
- Sit on a porch and listen to the river and birds.
- Look up at the night sky and see more stars than you may be used to.
- Stroll along quiet roads without a schedule or agenda.
If you’re coming from a busy city, that slower pace can feel strange at first. But give it a day or two, and you might find it’s exactly what you needed.
Planning Your Trip to Huntington, VT
A few quick tips if you’re planning to explore Huntington and Chittenden County:
- Car is helpful: Public transportation is limited, so having a car makes it easier to reach trailheads, farms, and neighboring towns.
- Check road conditions: In winter and mud season (early spring), some backroads can be rough or icy.
- Pack layers: Mountain weather can change quickly, even in summer.
- Respect private property: Many pretty fields and barns are on private land; admire from the road unless signs say otherwise.
What Will You Do First Near Huntington, Vermont?
From hiking up Camels Hump and wandering along the Huntington River to day-tripping into Burlington and exploring nearby Richmond, there are plenty of things to do near Huntington, VT for nature lovers, families, and casual travelers.
Have you visited Huntington or Chittenden County before?
- Which hike or backroad was your favorite?
- Do you have a go-to coffee shop or farm stand in the area?
I’d love to hear your stories and tips.
Share this post with friends who are planning a Vermont getaway, and drop a comment below with your favorite Huntington memory or any questions about visiting this beautiful corner of the Green Mountains.
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