United States Vermont Rochester

Mount Horrid

A rugged peak in Rochester, VT offering a precipitous cliff known as the Great Cliff, popular for hiking, bird watching, and scenic views.

Tips from the community

Don't be turned off by the name — Mount Horrid is anything but. My sneaky secret spot on the Long Trail (2.1 mile out-and-back with about 1000ft gain), Horrid is a steep but quick scramble up with *incredible* views at the top. Most folks don't touch foot on Horrid unless they're passing through via the Long Trail, so you're usually guaranteed to have the summit to yourself. The top part of the trail is closed late Fall - early Spring due to ice and mud, so save this one for a warm sunny day.

leah 3 years ago

The Long Trail to Mount Horrid offers stunning views of the Vermont landscape with very little effort. This easy 2.1 mile out-and-back trail is located in the Joseph Battell Wilderness near Rochester. Come prepared for some mildly rocky terrain and a 1,033 feet ascent before reaching the Great Cliff Viewpoint. The trail is open all year, but I recommend a visit between April and October due to slippery and muddy conditions during winter.

leah 1 year ago

Mount Horrid Guides

  • Vermont's Best Mountains for a Day Hike

    leah (Leah Fishman)
    If you're itching to get out of the city and explore Vermont's scenic beauty, then you're in luck. Vermont is home to some of the best mountains for a day hike, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a newbie, this list of the best Vermont mountains for a day hike has got you covered. Happy hiking!
  • best hikes in vermont

    leah (Leah Fishman)
    If you're into crisp fall foliage, whirling waterfalls, sweeping views, foothill farms, summit swims, and petting *all* the trail dogs, Vermont hiking is for you. If you're not into those things, I mean, who even are you? The best part about Vermont hiking is that it's accessible: every climb is doable in a day (besides the Long Trail, we'll get to that later), with promises of beer flights and yummy local bites when you safely make your way back down. I've spent the last 10 years testing Vermont's trails so that you don't have to & here are some of my faves: