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4,235 ft · Green Mountains, Vermont

Killington Peak

Killington Peak is a 4,235 ft peak in the Green Mountains, Vermont. The standard route is the Via Bucklin Trail: 7 mi, 2,460 ft of gain, Class 2.

Killington Peak in the Green Mountains, Vermont

Killington Peak at a glance

  • Elevation4,235 ft1,290 m
  • RouteVia Bucklin TrailClass 2
  • Distance7 mi2,460 ft gain
  • Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
  • SeasonJun – Oct
  • RangeGreen MountainsVermont

Climbing the Via Bucklin Trail

From near Rutland, Vermont, the Bucklin Trail off Wheelerville Road climbs steadily to the Long Trail, then a short, steep rocky scramble reaches the summit beside the ski area. Killington is Vermont's second-highest peak, with wide views from the open top and a seasonal gondola and lodge nearby. The final pitch is rocky and slick when wet. Start early and carry water and a wind layer for the round trip. The Long Trail and Appalachian Trail share this ridge, so expect long-distance hikers alongside day trippers.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (15–25 L)
  • Water
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Whistle
  • Offline Maps
  • Compass
  • Headlamp
  • Hiking Boots
  • Trekking Poles
  • Base Layer
  • Midlayer
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Buff
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen

What to watch for

  • Slippery terrain
  • Insects

Killington Peak on Yak

Climbers have shared 6 climbs of Killington Peak on Yak. Read their trip reports and recent conditions in the app

Quests with Killington Peak

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Killington Peak?

Killington Peak is 4,235 feet (1,290 m) tall. It is in the Green Mountains, Vermont.

How does Killington Peak rank among the New England 4,000ers?

At 4,235 feet, Killington Peak is the 36th highest of the 67 New England 4,000ers. The highest is Mount Washington.

How hard is it to hike Killington Peak?

The Via Bucklin Trail is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 7 miles with 2,460 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Killington Peak?

Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Via Bucklin Trail, covering 7 miles with 2,460 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Killington Peak?

Usually, if you are fit. The Via Bucklin Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.

When is the best time to hike Killington Peak?

The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

What is the trailhead elevation for Killington Peak?

The Via Bucklin Trail starts at about 1,790 feet, roughly 2,445 feet below the summit.

Climb Killington Peak with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list