Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
Originally called “Tah-wak-be-dee-ee-wadso,” or Saddle Mountain, by the Waubanaukee Indians, Camels Hump is a distinct mountain with a rocky summit and a classic Vermont hike. I first hiked Camel’s Hump in college during a January where our goal was to hike all the Vermont 4000 footers in January – we ended up doing 3 total including Camels Hump. It’s been a few year’s since then and this time I did the trail in the fall with the first colors just starting to come up.
Below you can see how to hike Camels Hump via the Burrows Trail (note that there are several route options to get to the summit).
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Quick Look at Hiking Camels Hump
Distance: 4.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,263 feet
Difficulty: Hard
This trail starts and ends at the Burrow Trail parking lot. You can also turn this into a loop with just a little more distance.
Most of the trail is through the forest with only the last 0.3 miles to the summit exposed with views.
Things to Know About Hiking Camels Hump on the Burrows Trail
Parking
There is a parking lot that has about 20 spots. Once this is full there is no immediate overflow. It is possible to park back down the road but this will increase your overall hike and will add some more elevation gain. Arrive early to get a spot.
Dogs
Dogs are welcome on the trail on a leash
Making it a Loop
If I was hiking this again, I would make it into a loop. We were planning a loop, but missed the trail so simply retraced our steps.
Map of Burrows Trail Camels Hump
Details of Hiking Camels Hump
The trail is generally steady although it does get steeper as you get closer to the summit. The actual trail is typical with plenty of rocks and roots but there is no scrambling until a small steep section right before the summit.
Since most of the trail is in the woods, there are no real views until you reach the summit. About 0.3 miles from the summit, the trail meets the Long Trail and you will turn right towards the summit in a large clearing. This last part is the best part of the hikes with views that eventually open up to 360 degree views.
From the summit you can look south and see the Long Trail towards Mad River. To the east you can see the White Mountains of NH in the distance and to the west the Adirondacks of New York.
From the summit, you can retrace yourself or hike south to make this into a loop.
