Underhill is within Vermont's 34,000-acre Mt. Mansfield State Forest. On the headwaters of the Brown's River, at about 2,000 feet elevation, the park lies on the west slope of 4,300 feet Mt. Mansfield, the state's highest peak. Just over the summit ridge is the Stowe ski area, one of North America's original ski resorts. The elevation and corresponding exposure to harsh climatic conditions have resulted in some relatively unusual vegetation types along the mountain's summit ridge. The low, stunted-plants found in the alpine tundra near the summit, very rare in New England, are more typical of types found on broad expanses of Arctic tundra a thousand miles farther north. These plants are fragile (if you hike to the summit, please stay on rock and trail). There are four trails to the summit ridge of Mt. Mansfield. Park at the ranger station and walk up the road. The trails begin branching off shortly above the group camp area. The Sunset Ridge trail, 3 miles to the summit, is the most popular. Vermont's Long Trail traverses the summit ridge and, with several trails from the other side of the mountain, many loops are possible. Trail maps are available at the ranger station.

• Hike The Sunset Risge trail, 3 miles to the summit.