Camels Hump

Nestled in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains, Camel’s Hump stands as one of the state's most iconic and revered peaks. Towering at 4,083 feet, this distinctive mountain is not only a prime destination for avid hikers but also a symbol of the rugged beauty that defines Vermont’s natural landscape. This review delves into what makes Camel’s Hump a standout hiking experience and provides a comprehensive overview of what you can expect when venturing to this remarkable summit.

Scenic Beauty and Unique Features

Camel’s Hump is renowned for its distinctive shape, which, from a distance, resembles the hump of a camel—hence the name. The mountain’s summit is a broad, treeless dome that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail leading to this summit provides an ever-changing scenery, from dense, verdant forests to exposed ridges, each offering its own unique beauty.

One of the highlights of Camel’s Hump is the spectacular 360-degree views from the summit. On a clear day, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Green Mountains, the Adirondacks, and even the White Mountains in New Hampshire. The sight of the sprawling forests and rolling hills below is nothing short of mesmerizing, making the summit an ideal spot for both photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The Hiking Experience

Camel’s Hump is accessible via several trails, but the most popular routes are the Long Trail and the Burrows Trail. The Long Trail, which is part of a historic path running the length of Vermont, offers a challenging but rewarding climb. The trailhead is located at the end of Camel’s Hump Road, and the trek to the summit is roughly 4.8 miles one way, with an elevation gain of about 2,400 feet.

The hike is considered strenuous and is best suited for those with some experience in hiking. The ascent is steep and involves a fair amount of scrambling over rocky sections. However, the effort is well worth it for the stunning summit views and the satisfaction of reaching such a prominent peak. The Burrows Trail is slightly shorter and less strenuous but still provides a rewarding climb and impressive views.

Trail Conditions and Preparation

Hiking Camel’s Hump requires proper preparation. The weather in the Green Mountains can be unpredictable, and conditions at the summit can be vastly different from those at the base. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before setting out and to bring layers of clothing to accommodate changing conditions. Good hiking boots are essential due to the rocky and sometimes muddy trail segments.

Additionally, while the trail is well-marked, it is always beneficial to carry a map and compass or a GPS device. Cell service can be spotty in the mountainous terrain, so having a reliable way to navigate is important.

Conservation and Leave No Trace

As with all natural areas, preserving the beauty of Camel’s Hump is crucial. Hikers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife. By adhering to these guidelines, visitors help ensure that Camel’s Hump remains a pristine and enjoyable destination for future generations.

Final Thoughts

Camel’s Hump offers an unforgettable hiking experience, combining challenging terrain with some of the most breathtaking views in Vermont. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone looking to take on a rewarding adventure, this peak delivers on all fronts. Its unique profile, stunning vistas, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Green Mountains.

In summary, Camel’s Hump stands out as a testament to Vermont’s natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities. It’s a peak that promises both physical challenge and spectacular rewards, ensuring a memorable experience for all who make the ascent.

The view from the top is breathtaking

My favourite walk in the ACT. Best combined with John’s Peak. Start is quite steep and a bit of scrambling towards the end. Best views are just before the summit. If there is a slight chance of rain in Canberra, it will be raining on Camels hump.

The first part is steep, but it tappers off quite nicely until the last 300m or so. I personally love a good scramble, so the very last part was a lot of fun, and the views near the very end were amazing. It's only a 4 star because it's mostly a fire trail which can be a bit bland.

The final stretch up was long, hot , dry and very steep. We did this hike during summer and you could really feel your legs burn with that incline.

I only rated it a three star as I like to finish off a hike with a great view and I can't say this trail had a good one. If you're looking for a good workout, say a 3-4 hour endurance hike, this is one that's easily accessible for Canberrans. Although, there are a lot more prettier hikes in the region.

Great walk, not too hard, comes with good views over Canberra at the end.

Fantastic walk, took 4hrs return with a 30min stop at the top. The last bit of the walk is quite steep but great 360 views at the top

An excellent peak with a lovely walk up with a couple of steep sections and a bit of scrambling at the end. Particularly memorable when in snow.