Hiking Collection by Jamie S.
The Long Trail — America's oldest long-distance path
6 days
8-33 h/day
414km
17,970m
17,740m
The southern start of the Long Trail begins just north of North Adams, MA, with a 3.8-mile approach via the Appalachian Trail to reach the official trail start by the Massachusetts-Vermont border. For overnight parking, you can leave your vehicle at the Greylock Community Center (free) or at the Williamstown Motel for a small ($2/day) daily fee. The northern end of the trail, by contrast, is far more remote. For those finishing here, you will need to arrange a two-car shuttle, hire a local ride, or rely on hitchhiking.
The trail is demanding throughout; what the Green Mountains lack in elevation, they make up for in somewhat relentless ups and downs and unpredictable weather, especially in the summer where thunderstorms can roll in unexpectedly. Vermont’s notorious spring mud, steep climbs, and rocky scrambles are constants—especially in the northern half, where elevation gains become more sustained and the terrain more rugged and often more exposed. Major summits like Glastenbury Mountain, Stratton Mountain, Killington Peak, Camel’s Hump, Mount Mansfield, and Jay Peak offer unforgettable views, while scenic, often-historic shelters in dense forests provide places to rest. The trail also passes near several quintessential Vermont towns —Bennington, Manchester Center, Killington, and Stowe—where you can find food, lodging, and resupply options between sections.
No permits are required to hike the Long Trail, and camping is free at designated first-come, first-served shelters and tent sites along the route. However, hikers should always follow Leave No Trace principles, especially in alpine zones and areas of high traffic. Black flies and mosquitoes are most intense from late spring to early summer, and Vermont’s mud season can make the trail nearly impassable in May. The best time to hike is from late June through early October, when conditions are drier, days are long, and the ridgelines come alive with wildflowers and far-reaching views. Fall brings stunning foliage but also colder nights and the potential for early snow in the north.
Whether you’re out for a weekend or working your way across all 272 miles, the Long Trail offers amazing adventure across Vermont’s high peaks, forested ridgelines, and alpine tundra.
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The Long Trail — Vermont
412km
17,850m
17,630m
Last updated: May 4, 2025
Do it yourself!
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Activities
28.1km
08:41
1,110m
880m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
61.0km
19:45
2,130m
1,980m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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77.1km
24:32
2,960m
2,940m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
89.8km
28:05
3,420m
3,270m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
62.7km
21:31
3,150m
3,410m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
95.6km
33:21
5,200m
5,260m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Collection Stats
Activities
6
Distance
414 km
Duration
135:56 h
Elevation
17,970 m
17,740 m
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