Join the Adventure

www.greenmountainclub.org

The Long Trail is a 272-mile hiking trail that runs the length of Vermont continuously from the Massachusetts border to the Canadian border. The Green Mountain Club built it more than 100 years ago and maintains it to this day, along with the Appalachian Trail in Vermont and the Kingdom Heritage Trails in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, totaling nearly 500 miles of hiking trails. GMC is the go-to source for hiking information in Vermont; with maps, guidebooks, and expert advice to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s an easy afternoon jaunt or an “End-to-End" thru-hike of the entire trail. Hiking season officially starts the Friday of Memorial Day Weekend; during “mud season” in April and May all hikers are encouraged to avoid high-elevation trails as they need time to dry out from the snowmelt.

VERMONT'S FIFTH SEASON

As the ground thaws and snow melts in late March, April, and May, the trails get waterlogged and muddy. Hiking on high-elevation trails during this time causes soil compaction, erosion, trail widening, and damage to the trail and the surrounding vegetation. Help do your part in protecting Vermont’s trails and fragile alpine plants and flowers by only hiking at low elevations or on durable surfaces.

PLAN AHEAD

Hiking season is right around the corner. Explore GMC’s guide to hiking the Long Trail – whether for one day or the entire 272 miles. Want to summit one of Vermont’s 4,000-footers, or find an accessible trail for the whole family? We’ve got you covered.

Hiker overlooking sunrise on top of mountain

STAY SAFE ON THE TRAILS

Trails and summits may be icy, snowy, or bitterly cold. Be sure to check trail conditions and outfit yourself with proper layers, footwear and fuel to undertake your hike safely.

SPRING IN VERMONT

It may be muddy, but spring wildflowers are breaking ground and signs of spring are all around. Tap into life emerging all around you by learning about Vermont’s local spring plants and wildlife.

Hiking

Whether walking in the woods or scrambling up a rock face, the Green Mountains are home to a wide variety of hiking options. Find your next peak and get ready for unforgettable adventure

State Parks

Vermont's State Parks are open year-round. From camping in cabins to enjoying a day on the lake swimming, paddling or boating, learn more about Vermont's 55 state parks.

Outdoor Recreation

Vermont's outdoors remains a top destination for all ages. From epic adventures to more serene ways of taking in the view, Vermont's outdoor recreation opportunities are endless.