Warm Winter Brings Early and Varied Mud Season Conditions to Vermont Trails

Media Contact: Chloe Miller, [email protected], 802-241-8324

Hikers advised to seek dry, durable surfaces for hiking until trails dry out

Waterbury, Vermont — Despite a major snowstorm in late March and one in the forecast this week, mud season conditions are here in our mountains and trails. The Green Mountain Club cautions hikers that high-elevation trails on state land are now closed through May. Specific closures are listed on Trail Finder and include trails to Camel’s Hump, Mount Mansfield, and Jay Peak.

The start of mud season for the trails has historically been April 15, but it’s been trending earlier in recent years. This year, with such a mild winter, we saw mud season equivalent conditions in every month of meteorological winter. And with sustained above-freezing temperatures throughout March, a messy mud season is here to stay. Even 20” of snow on the mountains in mid-March fell upon muddy, thawed ground, so mud season conditions are quick to return.

Just like our dirt roads, dirt hiking trails are susceptible to damage during mud season. Hikers compact the soil, increasing erosion, and hiking around muddy sections widens the trail and tramples trailside vegetation. Hikers are advised to follow these guidelines when recreating in mud season conditions:

• Check trail open/closed status on TrailFinder, which is updated weekly. Trails in state parks and forests are officially closed during mud season (that includes Camel’s Hump, Mount Mansfield, Jay Peak, and other popular hiking areas).
• Seek out low elevation trails and durable surfaces during mud season. Dirt roads and rail trails statewide make for great long walks. See GMC’s collection of mud season appropriate hikes here.
• Stay flexible and adaptable. Be aware that mud season conditions can exist any month of the year. If you encounter significant mud on your way to a trailhead or summit, consider turning around and finding an alternative place to hike.
• If you do continue, hike directly through mud to protect the land around the trail. Wear waterproof boots, gaiters, and use hiking poles to improve stability.
• Try to check recent trail reports on forums like Hiking in Vermont (Facebook). Consider posting an honest trip report of your own to help other hikers and spread responsible stewardship.