Deer Leap Overlook, Killington Vermont

With some free time in Vermont before a wedding, I really wanted to find a hike with beautiful views of Vermont.  After talking to some Killington locals, we decided on the Deer Leap Overlook. 

Deer Leap Overlook is a hike to a rock face offering 180 degree views of Pico Peak, ski trails and the Vermont countryside. This trail is actually a small offshoot of the famous Appalachian Trail.  This is a great short hike if you are in the Killington area.  While Killington ski resort offered a variety of hikes, many were longer than our schedule or required a $25 gondola ride one way to meet time constraints.  The innkeeper at Trailside suggested Deer Leap Overlook as a great 1.5 to 2-hour option with gorgeous views.  I highly recommend this hike if you find yourself leaf-peeping in Vermont fall. 

Distance:  About 2.5 miles out and back

Elevation:  520'

Time:  1.5-2 hours

Trailhead: The trail starts on the east side of the Inn at Long Trail on the north side of Route 4. There is limited parking on the north side but ample parking on the south side of Route 4, however, be very careful crossing the highway at that point.

Skill:  Easy to moderate, large boulders and rocks on the trail that make the terrain more challenging.

Dog-friendly:  Yes!

Kid-friendly:  Yes, as long as they don't mind the boulder terrain.

Keep an eye out for the hiker sign! The trailhead is right by the Irish Pub 

The trail is well marked all the way to the overlook

Deer Leap is an offshoot of the Appalachian Trail 

Trail to the overlook

Vista point, 180 degrees of Vermont from Deer Leap Overlook

This was the perfect way to spend a gorgeous Vermont morning.  A lovely short hike that works up a quick sweat, offering gorgeous views of Vermont down below.  Ski trails, tiny towns, and leaves that were starting to change.  So much charm in this little state. 

 Friday we are talking about Killington and beautiful Pittsfield Vermont.  See you Friday!