Easy and breezy… If the next word you’re thinking is “beautiful,” then we’ve got you covered. These great summer hikes in VT are guaranteed to please. Time to lace up those hiking boots, folks. Let’s get out in the fresh air for some rewarding treks that will stretch those muscles!

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

1. Mt. Tom, Woodstock Alltrails/Max Koz The Faulkner trail takes you through the woods with something new at every turn. It's well marked and has lovely views of the town of Woodstock from the summit.

2. Mt. Ascutney, Windsor Alltrails/Bri Lawrence Mt. Ascutney has loads to see and do, and one of our favorite hikes here is the Weathersfield trail. You'll find waterfalls and a viewing tower, not to mention that you'll be hiking on a non-active volcano for an added cool factor.

3. Quechee Gorge, Quechee Flickr/Gerald Azenaro This 165-foot drop is known as Vermont's Little Grand Canyon, and the look down is quite breathtaking. But the hike to the bottom is quite easy and it will give you a whole new vantage point of the gorge from the bottom looking up.

4. Robert Frost Interpretive Trail, Ripton Alltrails/Jason Oh This easy, one-mile hike has poems written by Vermont's most beloved poet, Robert Frost, along the way.

5. Killington Peak, Killington Alltrails/Jamie Gay Make your way to some fantastic views from the top as you hike on many of the ski trails on Killington Mountain. If you normally ski down in the winter, climbing up in the summer is a completely new adventure.

6. Shaw Mountain Natural Area, West Haven Alltrails/Crazybout Vermont This 2.1-mile loop is a calm and relaxing trek. It's perfect for bird watching and getting in touch with nature.

7. Mt. Elmore, Elmore Flickr/Charles Wohlers Most people head to these hills for the wonderful fire tower views. But don't miss the balancing rock along the way. It's certainly something you don't see every day!

8. Mt. Olga, Wilmington Alltrails/Marie Rehm-Brandt This 1.6-mile loop hike has a big view payoff. Put aside your fear of heights and climb to the top of the fire tower for a spectacular view.

9. Mt. Philo, Charlotte Alltrails/Brian Krulish This family-friendly hike has a lovely picnic area at the top with spectacular views. Pack a lunch and set aside plenty of time to enjoy it!