Long Trail

The Long Trail is Vermont’s long-distance ridge route through the Green Mountains, running from the Massachusetts–Vermont border to the Canada–US border. The route is about 273 miles (439 km) end to end, and the broader Long Trail System adds extensive side trails (about 175 miles / 282 km) for people who want shorter link-ups.

It’s the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States and was constructed between 1910 and 1930 by the Green Mountain Club (GMC). Along the way, it traverses major Green Mountain summits including Mount Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, and Jay Peak, with the southern portion sharing roughly 100 miles (160 km) with the Appalachian Trail.

The trail runs primarily along the main ridge, so it’s steep and rugged in many sections rather than a mellow grade throughout. It also crosses terrain that can be muddy—especially during the late-spring “mud season,” when some sections may close to protect the trail and nearby plants.

Navigation is straightforward on the main line: the trail is marked with white blazes on trees (with double-blazes for important turns), and in open or rocky areas the marking may appear on rocks; cairns and scree walls can also define the route. Winter can make the white blaze line harder to pick out under snow.

For overnight plans, the route is supported by backcountry overnight sites—roughly 70 campsites and shelters—so a multi-day hike can be paced by section rather than requiring a full end-to-end commitment.

From a planning standpoint, expect the Long Trail to be maintained by the Green Mountain Club with help from volunteers, and treat seasonal trail updates and any mud-season closures as part of your pre-trip workflow. If you’re hiking in wet conditions or late spring, it’s worth scouting the specific section and verifying current status before you commit to miles in that stretch.

More information: Wikipedia, Wikipedia, Five "Other" Long Hiking Trails