Mountains and water
Rutland County spans the Green Mountains and the valley lakes, giving it a wide outdoor range — from alpine ridge hikes near Killington to warm swimming lakes in the west.
Hiking the Green Mountains
The Long Trail and the Appalachian Trail run together across the county near Killington, with accessible day hikes like Deer Leap (above Sherburne Pass) and Bald Mountain offering big views for moderate effort. Killington Peak itself can be climbed or reached by gondola.
Lakes & swimming
West of Rutland, Lake Bomoseen and Lake St. Catherine — Vermont’s largest lakes entirely within the state — offer state-park beaches, boating and quiet coves, while smaller ponds dot the hills.
Bike & rail trail
Killington’s summer bike park draws downhill riders, while the flat D&H Rail Trail in the Slate Valley suits families and gravel cyclists — a county that skis hard in winter and spreads out on the water and trails all summer.
Good to know
Does the Long Trail cross Rutland County?+
Yes — the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail run together near Killington, with day hikes like Deer Leap and Bald Mountain.
Where are the best swimming lakes?+
Lake Bomoseen and Lake St. Catherine, both with state-park beaches west of Rutland.
Can I mountain bike here?+
Yes — Killington’s lift-served bike park in summer, plus the flat D&H Rail Trail in the Slate Valley.