The hike over Glastenbury Mountain covers a remote and hauntingly beautiful wilderness. The entire
backpacking hike of 22.6 miles provides long walks, a choice of camping sites, and plenty of climbing
(over 3000 feet in several ascents).  There are some day-hike options as well, and less  experienced hikers
can enjoy this area too.  The long-distance view from one of the shelters is spectacular. Hiking
hereabouts is as good as it gets on the AT in Vermont.
From the guidebook "Exploring the Appalachian Trail: Hikes in Southern New England"
Bennington , VT - Hiking - 22.6 miles    

Between Bennington and Rutland, just east of Manchester Center. An overnight backpack to a
wilderness pond, or a half-day hike to a plummeting falls. Special attractions: Wildlife, wetlands,
Bourn Pond, and Lye Brook Falls.
From the guidebook "Hiking Vermont" Bennington , VT - Hiking - 14.6 miles

South-central Vermont, about 20 miles SE of Manchester. A classic day hike to fire tower views
and waterfront walks on a wild pond's shore; lean-tos and tent platforms offer overnight options
From the guidebook "Hiking Vermont" Manchester , VT - Hiking - 11 miles   

Near Woodford Hollow, 4 miles east of Bennington. A half day hike to a tree-clad summit known as Bald
Mountain.
Special attractions: Good views of the Green Mountains and the neighboring Taconic Range.
From the guidebook "Hiking Vermont" Bennington , VT - Hiking - 4 miles    

About midway between Rutland and Manchester Depot. An easy family backpack to campsites on Little
Rock Pond, or a looping, scenic day hike that adds the Green Mountain summit. Special attractions:
Camping at waterfront sites.
From the guidebook "Hiking Vermont" Rutland , VT - Hiking - 6.8 miles    

Midway between Rutland and Manchester Depot. A two- or three-day backpack circuit through the heart
of the Big Branch Wilderness; a full day for stronger hikers. Special attractions: Griffith Lake, views from
Baker Peak, and campsites in a vanished town.
From the guidebook "Hiking Vermont" Rutland , VT - Hiking - 13.4 miles   

Southwestern Vermont, immediately west of the village of Manchester. A vigorous climb to the highest summit in the Taconic Range. Special
attractions: Wildflowers, four-state views, and a marble benchoverlooking the Vermont Valley.
From the guidebook "Hiking Vermont" Manchester , VT - Hiking - 6.8 miles    

This hike leaves the highway about 6 miles east of bustling Manchester. Amidst the plethora of designer outlets in the village, there are numerous
services and distractions for hikers, not the least of which is a US Forest Service information center where Green Mountain National Forest maps and
advice can be obtained. Hikers with an interest in botany may enjoy a pre-hike stroll on the Boswell Botany Trail at the Southern Vermont Art
Center in Manchester Center (802-362-1405). More than thirty types of ferns and eighty types of wildflowers grace the pathways here. The plants
commonly seen on the trail are here too, labeled for your edification - trillium, clintonia, trout lily, hepatica, lady's-slipper, and the many ferns. A
250-year-old sugar maple makes a stately centerpiece in the art center's sculpture garden.
From the guidebook "Exploring the Appalachian Trail: Hikes in Southern New England" Manchester , VT - Hiking - 17.3 miles   
Reservations