Difficulty: Moderate
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Harmon Hill via Long Trail South
From the large parking lot on Route 9, carefully cross the road to continue on the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail South. Climb steeply up a stone staircase, which has been restored by the Long Trail Patrol crew in recent years. After 0.6 mi., the ascent becomes more gradual before cresting Harmon Hill (1.8 mi.). This hill is maintained as early successional…
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Shrewsbury Peak Trail
Shrewsbury Peak is a wonderful day hike option that may have fewer crowds than nearby Killington and Pico Peak. From the Shrewsbury Trail parking lot on North Shrewsbury CCC Road, follow the Shrewsbury Peak Trail past Russell Hill Shelter and gradually then steeply climb to the summit of Shrewsbury Peak (3720’) for 1.8 mi. At…
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Pico Peak
From the Deer Leap/Pico Peak parking area on Route 4, take the Sherburne Pass Trail south gradually climbing for 2.7 miles to Pico Camp, a small four-sided shelter. Ski trails allow for nice views along the way. Note that the trail crosses a few ski trails and service roads, which can be confusing; follow the blue blazes. From Pico Camp, follow the Pico Link trail for 0.4…
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Deer Leap Trail
The Deer Leap Trail is a relatively short but rugged hike to the top of a rock outcrop with impressive views of the Coolidge Range and Sherburne Pass. The trail starts on the north side of Rt. 4, at the east end of the Inn at Long Trail parking lot. Note that it is suggested to park across Rt. 4 as there is more space available. Be very cautious crossing the road…
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Bamforth Ridge Shelter
From the parking area, hike south on the Long Trail. Cross a bridge over Gleason Brook (0.6 mi), then on to Duxbury Window, a beautiful lookout over the Winooski Valley with a bench (1.6 mi). Note that most of the hike is a gradual incline, but the trail is fairly steep for a short stretch just before the Window. Continue past the lookout…
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Duxbury Window Trail
A great option on a clear day! From the parking area on Duxbury Road, hike south on the Long Trail. Cross a bridge over Gleason Brook (0.6 mi), then on to a beautiful lookout over the Winooski Valley with a bench (1.6 mi). Note: Most of the hike is a gradual incline, but the trail is fairly steep for a short…
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Stark Mountain Trail
Start at the Mad River Glen Single Chair loading station. The Stark Mountain Trail follows a wide service road for 1.5 mi. winding up the ski area. At the intersection with Sunnyside Trail take a right to continue for 0.9 mi. (2.4 mi.). At the intersection with the Long Trail take a right onto Long Trail North for 0.1 mi until reaching the Stark’s Nest overlook at 3,644’ (2.5 mi). To return to Mad River Glen continue back on Long Trail going…
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Molly Stark’s Balcony
While short, the route to Molly Stark’s Balcony is a rugged walk on rolling terrain. From the Appalachian Gap parking lot, head north on the Long Trail for 0.4 mi past Mad River Lookout and reaching Baby Stark Mountain. Continue on the Long Trail North for 0.9 mi. over Molly Stark Mountain before a final short descent to the Balcony on the north slope of Molly Stark Mtn (1.3 mi). The Balcony features a…
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Section Hike: Southern Terminus to Route 9
This two or three-day, one-to-two-night itinerary is a great way to get some southern Long Trail miles. Choose either the Pine Cobble Approach Trail or the Appalachian Trail to reach the Southern Terminus. You’ll have around 4,000 feet of elevation gain over 17-18 miles, along with a steep descent down to Route 9. It can…
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Section Hike: Brandon Gap to Route 4
This four-day, three-night, intermediate itinerary can be followed either north or south in Central Vermont, and could be modified to a 2-night trip for a more experienced backpacker. This is a great route for those who are looking to test their backcountry set up for multiple nights without too much mileage or elevation gain. It’s…