Are You Planning a Group Hike
on the Long Trail or Appalachian Trail in Vermont?
Whether you are organizing a trip for a school, camp, scout troop, or other organization, the Group Outreach Specialist is here to help you plan the best possible wilderness experience.
By Taking a few simple steps to plan out your group hike, you can ensure that your impact on the trail will be minimized, and that your group will have an enjoyable experience.
1. Contact GMC's Group Outreach Specialist
Contact Jenna Whitson by:
The Group Outreach Specialist is here to help you with all of your trip planning needs. You can do as much of your planning as you like before contacting her, but you should contact her before you finalize your plans!
2. Plan Your Itinerary
There are several resources to help you make your hiking plans. Please review all of them before making your plans.
- Up-to-date Long Trail guide books will give you information on getting to the trail, what to expect, and guidelines for using the Long Trail.
- The list of group sites on the Long Trail provides a comprehensive guide to which sites are designated for the use of organized group use. Choose from these sites when planning your trip.
- The Group Notification System will let you know if your preferred campsite is open to group use on any specific date.
- Permits are necessary for group use in State or Federal land. Make sure you contact the proper authorities well in advance in order to obtain your permits.
3. Minimize Impact On The Trail
To prevent damage to high-use areas, we ask that you observe the Leave No Trace principles, and keep your group size at or below 10 people.
- Leave No Trace practices ensure that later users of the Long Trail will be able to enjoy the same wilderness experience as you. Improper waste disposal and damage to the environment leave an unpleasant view for those who come after you.
- Large groups increase the damage from erosion to the trail. Keeping your group size small will prevent mud-pits on the trail, and will make for a more rustic and wild time in the woods of Vermont!
4. Enjoy Your Hike!
Don't forget to take pictures and let us know how you liked your stay on Vermont's Long Trail!
5. Don't Forget: You Can Volunteer to Help the Long Trail.
Whether you are planning your first trip or returning to Vermont, you can volunteer to work on sections of the Long Trail with your group. The Green Mountain Club's Field Staff have a wide array of projects, from clearing fallen trees to renovating shelters, so contact the Group Outreach Specialist if you are interested in more information. Any work you do on the Long Trail will have a positive impact on the experience of future generations of hikers, and will also provide you with a fun and exciting experience working on the Long Trail.
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