272Miles
18–24Days
67,000 ftGain
ThruType
Permits
System
None — GMC registration recommendedNo permit required for the full trail. Register with the GMC to get trail updates, water reports, and shelter status. Shelter system operated by GMC — most shelters are lean-tos with bear boxes.Apply or read more
Cost
Free. GMC membership $50/year (supports trail maintenance).
Bear storage
Not required — bear boxes at shelters
Season
Best
June–October. Mud season (April–May) can be severe — many hikers skip spring.
JFMAMJJASOND
PeakShoulderClosed
On trail
Water
Abundant throughout. Vermont has excellent water sources — filter all.
Resupply
Burlington VT area, Stowe, Rutland, Manchester are key towns. Trail crosses several roads for easy resupply.
Notes
America's oldest long-distance trail (1910). The AT follows the LT for its first 100 miles in Vermont before diverging east. Shelters every 4–8 miles. Excellent beginner thru-hike for Eastern hikers.
Elevation
1,060 ftHigh 4,393 ft
Resupply towns
Burlington area
Stowe
Montpelier
Middlebury
Manchester
Williamstown MA
Recommended gear