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Long Trail: Northern Terminus via Journeys End Trail

The best way to begin or end a thru-hike on Vermont's Long Trail.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
2.3 km
Ascent
7 m
Descent
223 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
405 m
High Point
628 m
Gradient
Long Trail: Northern Terminus via Journeys End Trail Map

Completed in 1930, Vermont's 273-mile Long Trail boasts the title of the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States. Built and maintained by the Green Mountain Club, the trail dissects Vermont north to south, connecting the Massachusetts State line to the Canadian border. The Journey's End Trail is the most common way to finish or begin a thru-hike, and a shelter lies between the trailhead and the northern terminus of the Long Trail.

Description

For roughly the first 100 miles, the Appalachian Trail coaligns with the Long Trail, following the main ridge of the Green Mountains. Due west of Killington, the AT departs east for Mount Katahdin, and the Long Trail continues to Canada. According to sectionhiker.com, the entire trail takes the average hiker less than three weeks and is best hiked in the summer to early fall. Temperatures can differ immensely between northern and southern Vermont, and another source suggests September as the best time for southbound hikers to make their journey.

The official northern terminus of the trail lies along the US/Canada border and is denoted by an engraved obelisk. The views from here are quite phenomenal, offering a spectacular finish (or start) to the 273-mile trail.

Sources: http://easternslopes.com/2010/05/08/first-steps-along-the-long-trail/ https://hikeandcycle.com/the-long-trail-5-things-to-know-when-planning-your-hike/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LongTrail https://sectionhiker.com/how-to-hike-vermonts-long-trail/

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between June and October

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Historical
  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Guidebooks in this area