Hike the Best Sections of the Long Trail in Vermont This Summer
As the oldest long-distance trail in the US, the Long Trail in Vermont stretches the entire length of our lush and picturesque state. It was constructed by the Green Mountain Club from 1910 to 1930 and thus created a spectacular hiking opportunity for avid and beginner hikers to explore the untouched wilderness of the Mad River Valley and beyond. The Long Trail in Vermont is segmented into numerous sections for those who prefer day hikes versus camping out in the woods.
This best time for hiking in Vermont is generally from May through October, so right now is the opportune time to explore these fantastic hardwood forests, pristine ponds, hidden waterfalls, and backcountry trails. Mt Abraham is the most popular walk to a summit on the Long Trail in Vermont. It is an exciting hike to one of the most impressive summits in New England. The trail combines high mountain forest and rocky terrain, so it’s best to have some hiking experience under your belt before choosing this route.
Thankfully, for those who want to experience the Long Trail in Vermont but would also appreciate comfortable accommodations to finish their day, our bed and breakfast in Vermont is the ideal place to call your “base camp.” The West Hill House B&B is centrally located—it’s only a quick drive to some of the best trailheads along the Long Trail. Better yet, if you choose a nearby segment that doesn’t take you directly back to your starting location, we’ll gladly pick you up and get you back to your car. Check out our upcoming summer availability and reserve your room today!
Sections of the Long Trail in Vermont Near our B&B
Before you start your excursions on the Long Trail in Vermont, join us for a delicious and homemade breakfast each morning of your stay. It’s one less thing to worry about before getting out into the splendor of the wilderness in the Green Mountain State. We’ll get you fueled up with a wholesome meal, caffeinated on freshly brewed coffee, and you’ll have the extra time to pack up your gear and be fully prepared to take on the trail.
Here are five ways to best experience the Long Trail in Vermont as a guest at our bed and breakfast:
- As we mentioned above, the summit of Mount Abraham is a popular route and is one of the peaks in the Green Mountains that rise to more than 4,000 feet. This hike begins at Lincoln Gap Road (about a five-minute drive from the Inn) and continues north along the mountain’s southern ridge. Once you reach the summit, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain to the west, the White Mountains to the east, and the Green Mountains from Killington Peak to Belvidere Mountain to the south and north. From there, the journey to Lincoln Peak continues, where you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Sugarbush Ski Resort.
- The Sunset Ledge Trail is another great one accessed from Lincoln Gap Road. This time, you’ll head 1.3 miles south of Lincoln Gap Road. It’s a pretty easy trail but well worth it, especially when the wildflowers bloom. At the end of the trail, you’ll enjoy west-facing views looking at the Champlain Valley, all the way to the high blue peaks of the distant Adirondacks—as the name implies, sunsets here are out of this world.
- To the north of our bed and breakfast in Vermont, you’ll find Camel’s Hump State Park, where there are several enjoyable hikes, including a section of the Long Trail in Vermont. Camel’s Hump is Vermont’s 3rd highest peak and is a known landmark in the Green Mountains for its unique shape. There are two main ways to get to Camel’s Hump: the Monroe Trailhead and the Burrows Trail.
- We also love to suggest Molly Stark’s Balcony—a 2.6-mile round-trip hike that gains over 500′ of elevation to a spectacular lookout but quite a challenging hike on the Long Trail in Vermont. The trail is steep and passes a spur to the Mad River Glen Lookout before reaching the flat ridge of Molly Stark Mountain summit. From there, you can continue to Molly Stark’s Balcony for a stunning view of Camel’s Hump and the surrounding peaks, including the Worcester Mountains to the east.
- There are many day hikes to enjoy on the Vermont Long Trail, but only experienced hikers should attempt the entire 272-mile length which takes an average of 20-30 days. In addition to the main trail, there are 166 miles of side trails that offer endless hiking possibilities. As a guest at our bed and breakfast in Vermont, we have maps and first-hand experience with hiking the Long Trail in Vermont, so feel free to ask us for this insider knowledge before you set out.
Join us this Summer at our Bed and Breakfast in Vermont
While hiking through the gorgeous forests on the Long Trail in Vermont will be a memorable and magical element of your trip, it’s just as important to have a comfortable place to relax after all of your hard work! That’s where our cozy bed and breakfast in Vermont comes in. Not only will you have a private guest room with all the amenities needed to unwind, but you’ll also have fantastic hosts to ensure you are cared for and pampered.
One of the best ways to relax after a long day hiking in the woods is with our Luxurious Pampering package. We pull out all the stops with fresh flowers, chilled sparkling wine, snacks and Vermont chocolates, and signature robes for you to take home. This package also comes with a couple’s relaxation massage, best enjoyed after exploring the Long Trail in Vermont—just when your muscles really need it! As well as a dining certificate for a beautiful meal out on the town.
Instead of an impersonal hotel stay, the goal at our bed and breakfast in Vermont is to be a standout part of your trip. You’ll be in the ideal location to head out and discover our beautiful state and can rest knowing that our outstanding accommodations and welcoming hospitality await your return. You’ll quickly see why we welcome back return guests time and again. Reserve your room today!
