Green Mountain Club

Maintaining & Protecting Vermont's Long Trail Since 1910

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The Long Trail

Long Trail Overview
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Vermont’s Long Trail System, with its 272-mile footpath, 166 miles of side trails, and approximately 70 backcountry campsites (many featuring shelters) offers endless hiking opportunities for the day hiker, weekend overnighter, and extended backpacker. The Long Trail follows the main ridge of the Green Mountains from the Massachusetts-Vermont state line to the Canadian border, crossing Vermont’s highest peaks.

Although the Long Trail is known as Vermont’s “footpath in the wilderness,” its character may more accurately be described as backcountry. On its way to Canada, this “footpath in the wilderness” climbs rugged peaks and passes pristine ponds, alpine sedge, hardwood forests, and swift streams. It is steep in places, muddy in others, and rugged in most. Novice and expert alike will enjoy the varied terrain of the trail as it passes through the heart of Vermont.

Built by the GreLong Trailen Mountain Club between 1910 and 1930, the Long Trail is the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States. The Long Trail follows the main ridge of the Green Mountains from the Massachusetts-Vermont line to the Canadian border as it crosses Vermont’s highest peaks. It was the inspiration for the Appalachian Trail, which coincides with the Long Trail for 100 miles in the southern third of the state.

As maintainer and protector of the Long Trail, the Green Mountain Club works in partnership with the Green Mountain National Forest, state of Vermont, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and private land owners to offer a world-class hiking trail.

Trail Marking

The Long Trail is marked by two-by-six-inch white blazes. Intersections usually have signs. Double blazes may mark important turns. In open areas or on rocky summits, blazes are often painted on rocks; cairns and scree walls may also define the trail. Property lines, snowmobile routes, and cross-country ski trails marked in various colors occasionally cross the route, but the well-worn footpath and standard white blazes distinguish the Long Trail from these. Nearly all side trails are blazed in blue. Hikers should always pay special attention at trail intersections as signs may be missing and blazes fade.

 Passing of a GMC Caretaker Pioneer: Daan Zwick

December 2, 2019

Daan Zwick was a Green Mountain Club caretaker in the 1930s, an active volunteer into the 1980s, and a generous supporter of the club. After a full and active life, he died on November 21st at his home in Rochester, New York. Daan was 97 years old. Daan’s deep commitment to the Long Trail … Read more

Hike VT Digital Maps Long Trail Day Calendar for the Green Mountain Club Sections GMC Rental Cabins

Mission

The Green Mountain Club is the founder and maintainer of the Long Trail - the oldest long distance hiking trail in America. Established in 1910 to build this trail stretching the length of Vermont, the club now also maintains the Appalachian Trail in Vermont and trails in the Northeast Kingdom in its mission to "make the Vermont mountains play a larger part in the life of the people." Read more...

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Connect

4711 Waterbury-Stowe Road
Waterbury Center, Vermont 05677
802.244.7037 | 802.244.5867 fax | Email GMC

Visitor Center Winter Hours:
Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm
Except Tuesday, 11am to 4pm


Copyright © 2019 Green Mountain Club · All Rights Reserved. · Site by Earthlogic.

Trail Sign Auction

One of these could be yours…

Authentic Long Trail signs are rare, one of a kind souvenirs. This is your chance to bid on one and bring a piece of the Long Trail and Green Mountain Club history into your home.

All auction proceeds will support the important work of the Green Mountain Club.

The auction ends on December 13th at 7:45 PM.

Visit the Auction Now