Vermont is a state with an overwhelming amount of natural beauty. Is it any wonder that the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the nation runs from top to bottom through the Green Mountain State? The Long Trail is a 273-mile opportunity to immerse yourself in the spellbinding scenery that Vermont has to offer.
The idea for the Long Trail was conceived in 1909. Constructed by the Green Mountain Club beginning in 1910, the 273-mile path took 20 years to blaze and was finished in 1930.
The trail runs along the ridge of the Green Mountains crossing almost all of the major summits. Hike along Glastenbury Mountain, Stratton Mountain, Killington Peak, Mount Abraham, Mount Ellen, Camel's Hump, Mount Mansfield, and Jay Peak to be afforded views of a lifetime.
The trail is maintained by the Green Mountain Club and its many volunteers. During the spring mud season some sections of the footpath may close due to heavy erosion until those portions can be repaired.
The Long Trail coincides with the Appalachian Trail for roughly 100 miles in the southern part of Vermont. The trail system also includes an additional 175 miles of hikeable side trails.
For more than a century, hikers have been climbing to soak in the scenery that stretches on endlessly. The landscapes that stretch on for miles are completely captivating.
Starting at the Massachusetts state line and ending on the Canadian border, the path has seen many footsteps in its time. And as the years pass, improvements are made to make the journey even more accessible to all.
Have you ever hiked the oldest long-distance hiking trail? Share your photos and experiences in the comments section below! Not all of us are up for the entire 273-mile hike, but you can traverse just a portion of the footpath to enjoy the natural beauty. Check out these sweet and easy hikes along the Long Trail for a short and rewarding journey.
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