USA — Burlington
Hike the Long Trail, America's oldest footpath, a 705km rugged traverse of Vermont's Green Mountains. This demanding route winds through dense hardwood forests and over windswept alpine summits, offering 20-30 days of soul-stirring wilderness. Expect significant elevation gain across varied terrain, from moss-covered boulders to rocky ridges, culminating in breathtaking panoramas.
Distance: 705.0 km
Elevation Gain: 21000 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 20-30 days
The Long Trail is the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States, a rugged and soul-stirring 705.0 km journey that traverses the entire length of Vermont. From the Massachusetts border to the Canadian frontier, this "footpath in the wilderness" follows the main ridge of the Green Mountains, offering a quintessential New England experience defined by dense hardwood forests, moss-covered boulders, and windswept alpine summits. With a staggering 21,000 metres of elevation gain, the trail is a formidable test of endurance, famously known for its "Green Mountain Tunnel"—stretches of deep, emerald canopy that open suddenly onto breathtaking vistas of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks to the west, and the White Mountains to the east. This is not merely a hike; it is a pilgrimage through the history of American conservation, a path carved by hand and maintained with devotion for over a century.
The Long Trail (LT) is the progenitor of the American thru-hiking tradition, serving as the direct inspiration for the Appalachian Trail. However, the LT maintains a distinct character that sets it apart from its more famous younger sibling. While the southern 160 kilometres coincide with the Appalachian Trail, the remaining 545 kilometres heading north toward Canada offer a more secluded, rugged, and technically demanding experience. The terrain is characterised by steep, rocky ascents and descents that often eschew switchbacks in favour of direct, vertical lines—a style of trail building that reflects the hardy spirit of its Vermont creators.
Geologically, the Green Mountains are among the oldest in the world, their jagged peaks worn down by eons of glacial activity and erosion into the rounded, verdant ridges seen today. The trail passes through several distinct life zones, from the northern hardwood forests of maple, birch, and beech at lower elevations to the sub-alpine balsam fir and red spruce forests higher up. On the highest summits, such as Mount Mansfield and Camel's Hump, hikers encounter rare alpine tundra—fragile remnants of the last ice age that exist nowhere else in the state. This ecological diversity ensures that every day on the trail presents a new landscape, from the boggy lowlands of the Lye Brook Wilderness to the exposed, rocky "Monroe Skyline."
The experience of hiking the Long Trail is often defined by the elements. Vermont's weather is famously unpredictable; a clear morning can transform into a torrential downpour by midday, turning the trail into what locals affectionately (or frustratedly) call "the long puddle." This moisture is what gives the Green Mountains their name and their vibrant, mossy aesthetic, but it also demands a high level of physical and mental resilience from the hiker. Navigating the "Green Mountain Tunnel" requires a meditative focus, where the reward is not always a grand vista, but the quiet beauty of a fern-filled glade or the haunting call of a hermit thrush at twilight. For those who complete the journey, the Long Trail offers a profound sense of accomplishment and a deep connection to the wild heart of New England.
The Long Trail was born from the vision of James P. Taylor, an educator who, in 1909, sat on the slopes of Stratton Mountain and imagined a continuous footpath connecting Vermont's highest peaks. At the time, the concept of a long-distance hiking trail was revolutionary. In 1910, Taylor and a group of like-minded enthusiasts formed the Green Mountain Club (GMC) with the express purpose of making the Vermont mountains accessible to those who "love the outdoors." The first sections of the trail were blazed shortly thereafter, and by 1930, the path reached the Canadian border, becoming the first long-distance trail of its kind in the United States.
The cultural legacy of the trail is inextricably linked to the GMC, which remains the trail's primary steward. For over 110 years, the club has relied on a dedicated network of volunteers and professional trail crews to maintain the path, build shelters, and protect the surrounding corridor. This "volunteer spirit" is palpable along the route, from the hand-carved signs to the meticulously maintained stone water bars. The trail also holds a special place in the history of the Appalachian Trail (AT); it was while working on the Long Trail that Benton MacKaye conceived the idea for a trail spanning the entire Appalachian range, using the LT as his blueprint.
Beyond its recreational history, the land the trail traverses is the ancestral home of the Abenaki people, who have lived in the N'dakinna (homeland) for thousands of years. Many of the mountain names and geographical features carry indigenous significance, and the trail serves as a reminder of the enduring relationship between the people and the land. Today, the Long Trail is more than just a recreational asset; it is a symbol of Vermont's commitment to conservation and a living museum of the American hiking movement.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
Timing is everything when planning a Long Trail thru-hike. The window for a successful journey is relatively narrow, dictated by the harsh Vermont winters and the equally challenging "Mud Season."
Summer (Late June to August): This is the most popular time for thru-hiking. The days are long, the forest is at its most lush, and the weather is generally warm. However, hikers must contend with "black fly season" in June and early July, where biting insects can be relentless. Humidity is also a factor, and afternoon thunderstorms are common. This is the best time for those who enjoy the social aspect of the trail, as shelters are often full of fellow hikers.
Autumn (September to mid-October): Many experienced hikers consider this the "golden window." The biting insects have vanished, the air is crisp and dry, and the humidity drops significantly. Most importantly, the "fall foliage" transforms the Green Mountains into a spectacular tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. The visual reward is unparalleled, though hikers must be prepared for freezing temperatures at night and shorter daylight hours. By mid-October, the risk of early snow on the high peaks increases.
The "Mud Season" Warning (April to mid-June): The Green Mountain Club and the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation officially request that hikers stay off high-elevation trails during this period. As the snow melts, the thin alpine soils become saturated and extremely fragile. Hiking during this time causes significant erosion and destroys the trail's infrastructure. Many sections of the trail are officially closed until the ground dries out, typically around Father's Day (mid-June).
Winter (November to March): The Long Trail becomes a serious mountaineering and backcountry skiing proposition in winter. Deep snow, sub-zero temperatures, and extreme wind chill on the ridges make it unsuitable for standard thru-hiking. Only those with advanced winter survival skills and specialised equipment should attempt sections of the trail during these months.
Day 1–5: The Southern Wilderness (Massachusetts Border to Stratton Mountain)
Day 6–10: The AT Overlap and the Big Peaks (Stratton to Sherburne Pass)
Day 11–15: The Gap Country (Sherburne Pass to Appalachian Gap)
Day 16–20: The High Peaks and the Monroe Skyline (Appalachian Gap to Johnson)
Day 21–25: The Wild North (Johnson to Canadian Border)
Important Notes:
Preparation for the Long Trail requires a focus on physical conditioning and logistical coordination. Unlike many Western US trails, the LT is characterised by "relentless" terrain—short, steep climbs and descents that test the knees and cardiovascular system. Training should include hiking with a weighted pack on uneven terrain. Logistically, Burlington serves as the primary hub for international and domestic travellers. From Burlington International Airport (BTV), hikers can take shuttles or buses to the southern terminus near Williamstown, Massachusetts, or the northern terminus near North Troy.
The Green Mountain Club's "End-to-Ender's Guide" is the essential planning resource, providing detailed information on resupply points, post offices, and hiker-friendly hostels. It is also highly recommended to join the GMC; membership supports trail maintenance and provides discounts on guidebooks and maps. Coordination of resupply is critical, as some sections in the north have limited access to towns.
The Long Trail features an extensive network of over 70 managed sites, including three-sided lean-tos (shelters), enclosed lodges, and designated tent sites. These are spaced roughly 8 to 15 kilometres apart, allowing for flexible daily distances.
Hut and Shelter Facilities:
What is NOT Provided:
Booking Requirements: No advance bookings are required for shelters or campsites; they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. During peak summer months, shelters can be crowded, so always carry a lightweight tent or tarp as a backup. Camping is generally permitted on state forest land, provided it is 60 metres from the trail and water sources, but using designated sites is strongly encouraged to protect the environment.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Long Trail is its accessibility. There is no formal permit system or lottery required to hike the trail, regardless of whether you are doing a day hike or a full thru-hike. This lack of bureaucracy reflects the Green Mountain Club's mission to keep the mountains open to all.
Registration and Fees:
Parking and Access: Most trailheads are located on state or federal land and do not require parking permits. However, some popular access points (like Smugglers' Notch) can have limited parking, and hikers should ensure they are parked legally to avoid towing. There are no fees to enter the Green Mountain National Forest.
Precisely traced GPX for the The Long Trail, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
Vermont offers a wealth of experiences for those looking to extend their stay or for support crews following the trail:
Weather and Hypothermia: The most significant safety risk on the Long Trail is the weather. Even in mid-summer, temperatures on the summits can drop toward freezing, and high winds can lead to rapid heat loss. Hypothermia is a genuine threat if a hiker becomes wet and exposed. Always carry a waterproof layer and an insulating layer, even on warm days. If a storm approaches while you are on an exposed ridge (like Mount Mansfield or Camel's Hump), descend to lower elevation immediately.
Terrain Hazards: The LT is famously rocky and root-filled. Ankle sprains and falls are the most common injuries. In the northern sections, the trail involves "scrambling"—using hands and feet to navigate steep rock faces. These sections become extremely slippery when wet. Take your time, use trekking poles, and ensure your footwear has adequate traction.
Wildlife:
Water Safety: Never drink untreated water from streams or ponds. Agricultural runoff and wildlife can contaminate even the most pristine-looking sources with Giardia or Cryptosporidium. Use a reliable filter or purification method for every litre of water consumed.
Emergency Communication: Mobile phone signal is extremely spotty along the trail, especially in the deep valleys and northern sections. Do not rely on your phone for emergency calls. Carrying a satellite messenger (like a Garmin inReach or SPOT) is highly recommended for thru-hikers.
Mount Mansfield Chin: The highest point in Vermont (1,340 m). While the Long Trail passes over it, taking the time to explore the various side trails on the summit ridge allows you to see the unique alpine tundra and the dramatic "Lakeview" vistas. The "Cliff Trail" offers a more technical alternative for those seeking a challenge.
Camel's Hump: Perhaps the most recognisable peak in Vermont due to its distinctive hump-like profile. It is one of the few high peaks without any development (no ski lifts or roads), offering a pure wilderness experience. The 360-degree view from the summit is arguably the best on the entire trail.
Clarendon Gorge: A dramatic suspension bridge carries the trail over the Mill River. Below, the river has carved a deep, narrow gorge into the rock, creating a popular (though cold) swimming hole for hikers on hot summer days.
Little Rock Pond: A beautiful alpine pond in the southern section, surrounded by large boulders and hemlock trees. It is a perfect spot for a mid-day swim or an overnight stay at the nearby shelter. The reflections of the surrounding peaks in the still water are a photographer's dream.
Devil's Gulch: Located in the northern section near Belvidere Mountain, this is a dramatic, fern-filled chasm filled with massive mossy boulders. The trail weaves through the rocks in a landscape that feels prehistoric and hidden from the world.
The Long Trail passes through some of the most ecologically sensitive areas in New England. With thousands of hikers traversing the route each year, adhering to Leave No Trace (LNT) principles is essential to preserving the trail's wilderness character.
Key LNT Practices for the Long Trail:
