Welcome to Vermont
The A.T. through the Green Mountain State of Vermont offers an inviting and inspiring journey for hikers of all abilities. The Trail ascends from 400 feet to more than 4,000 feet, offering challenges for both beginners and seasoned backpackers.
150.8
A.T. Miles in State
27
Shelters
400'–4,010'
Elevation Range
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Did You Know?
Vermont holds a special place in Appalachian Trail history as the birthplace of the Trail. Benton MacKaye, the visionary behind the A.T., looked south from the treetops of Stratton Mountain and dreamed of a similar trail connecting to the southern Appalachians. He was inspired by Vermont’s Long Trail, which was created in 1910 and connects the state’s peaks from Massachusetts to Canada.
The A.T. and Long Trail run together for 100 miles through the southern part of Vermont, including over Stratton Mountain. At Maine Junction just north of the town of Killington, the Long Trail continues north and the A.T. heads east towards New Hampshire.
And Vermont’s mountains aren’t called the Green Mountains for nothing! This section of the Trail is characterized by dense and verdant forests. The approximately 45 miles of A.T. at the east end of the state are lower elevation but offer great autumn foliage and a chance to get away from the crowds.
Need to Know
Vermont’s Mud Season
New Englander’s often say that there’s a fifth season each year, marked by trails and dirt roads forming deep, wet ruts. Mud season is formally recognized in Vermont, when many high elevation trails close during the spring to protect them from erosion until they thaw out and dry. While the A.T. in Vermont doesn’t officially close during this time, we strongly recommend hikers stay off the Trail through the state (and other high elevation sections in New England) from April until Memorial Day in May.
Learn More
Food Storage in the Green Mountain National Forest
The A.T. in Vermont runs through Green Mountain National Forest, which has a food storage order in place. Except while being consumed, all food and trash containing food materials must be kept in a provided bear box, a bear canister, or hung 12 ft from the ground and not less than 6 ft horizontally from any object. The ATC strongly recommends all A.T. hikers use a bear canister no matter where they are on the A.T.
Learn MoreVermont Clubs & Partners
Green Mountain Club
The mission of the Green Mountain Club is to make the Vermont mountains play a larger part in the life of the people by protecting and maintaining the Long Trail System and fostering, through education, the stewardship of Vermont’s hiking trails and mountains.
Learn MoreA.T. Communities in Vermont
There are 3 communities along the Appalachian Trail in Vermont that have been recognized by the A.T. Community™ program. These towns are assets for everyone visiting the A.T. and nearby public lands, providing restaurants, supplies, recreation, historic resources, and much more!
Day Hikes on the A.T. in Vermont
Take a look at these popular day hikes to explore in Vermont
Report an Incident
While the Appalachian Trail is a relatively safe place to visit, that does not mean that there are not potential dangers while you are hiking or camping. If you see something, say something — this will help us keep the A.T. as safe as possible for our visitors.
Incident Reporting