How to Hike the Green Mountain Loop

The Green Mountain Loop is one of the most revered long-distance hiking trails in the northeastern United States, winding through the rugged, forested highlands of Vermont’s Green Mountains. Spanning approximately 272 miles, this loop offers hikers a transformative journey through alpine ridgelines, ancient hardwood forests, cascading waterfalls, and remote backcountry campsites. Unlike many popular thru-hikes such as the Appalachian Trail, the Green Mountain Loop remains relatively under-the-radar, preserving its sense of solitude and raw natural beauty. For those seeking a challenging, immersive, and deeply rewarding outdoor experience, mastering the art of hiking this loop is both an adventure and a rite of passage.

This guide is designed for hikers of intermediate to advanced skill levels who are prepared to navigate multi-day terrain with minimal infrastructure. Whether you’re planning a thru-hike over 2–3 weeks or tackling sections over multiple seasons, this comprehensive tutorial will equip you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to safely and successfully complete the Green Mountain Loop. We’ll walk you through every critical phase—from route planning and gear selection to navigation, Leave No Trace ethics, and real-world case studies from seasoned hikers.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Route and Geography

The Green Mountain Loop is not a single trail but a connected network of established footpaths, primarily following the Green Mountain National Forest’s Long Trail (LT) and the Appalachian Trail (AT) in southern Vermont, then looping back via lesser-known connector trails. The full loop begins and ends at the Massachusetts-Vermont border near the town of Williamstown, traversing south to north along the Long Trail, then crossing the Green Mountains via the Mettawee Valley Connector, the Catamount Trail, and finally returning via the Appalachian Trail’s Vermont segment.

Key landmarks include Mount Mansfield (Vermont’s highest peak), Camel’s Hump, the Breadloaf Wilderness, and the Mad River Valley. The terrain varies dramatically: steep, rocky ascents on the Long Trail, gentle forested valleys in the east, and exposed ridges with panoramic views. Elevation gains exceed 50,000 feet over the full loop, with multiple sections above 3,500 feet. Weather can shift rapidly—summer thunderstorms are common, and snow can linger into June at higher elevations.

2. Choose Your Start Point and Direction

Most hikers begin at the southern terminus near Williamstown, MA, and hike northbound. This direction allows you to gradually acclimate to elevation and terrain, with the most demanding sections (Mount Mansfield and Camel’s Hump) occurring in the middle of the trip when you’re strongest. Northbound also aligns with the prevailing weather patterns, reducing exposure to late-season storms.

Alternatively, southbound hikers start at the northern terminus near the Canadian border (near the Vermont-Quebec line) and descend into gentler terrain. This route is less common and requires more logistical planning due to fewer trailheads and limited access points. Southbound is recommended only for experienced hikers with strong navigation skills.

Consider starting at a midpoint (e.g., the Breadloaf trailhead) if you’re doing a section hike. This allows flexibility and reduces transportation complexity.

3. Plan Your Timeline

The average thru-hiker completes the Green Mountain Loop in 18–24 days, depending on fitness, weather, and rest days. A conservative pace is 12–15 miles per day. Plan for at least two full rest days to recover from elevation gain and inclement weather.

Best hiking season: Late June through mid-October. Early June risks snowpack and muddy trails; late October brings freezing temperatures and early snowfall. July and August offer the most stable conditions but also the highest insect activity and trail congestion. September is ideal: cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and vibrant fall foliage.

Use a trail calendar to map your daily mileage. Divide the loop into 5–7 segments based on water sources, campsites, and resupply points. Always allow a buffer day for delays due to weather or injury.

4. Secure Permits and Regulations

Unlike the Appalachian Trail, the Green Mountain Loop does not require a formal permit for thru-hiking. However, certain areas have restrictions:

• Backcountry camping is permitted anywhere in the Green Mountain National Forest, but must be at least 200 feet from water sources and trails.
• Campfires are prohibited above 4,000 feet and in designated wilderness areas (e.g., Breadloaf, Sterling Mountain). Use a camp stove.
• Group size is limited to 10 people in wilderness zones.
• Leave No Trace principles are enforced by rangers—violations can result in fines.

Check with the Green Mountain Club (GMC) for seasonal updates. Their trail conditions report is updated weekly during hiking season and is essential reading.

5. Prepare Your Gear List

Weight and functionality are paramount. A loaded pack should not exceed 25% of your body weight. Here’s a curated gear list:

• Backpack: 50–65L capacity with a hip belt and ventilated back panel (e.g., Osprey Atmos AG 65).
• Tent: Lightweight, 3-season, freestanding with a full-coverage rainfly (e.g., MSR Hubba Hubba NX).
• Sleeping System: Sleeping bag rated to 20°F, insulated sleeping pad (R-value ≥ 3.5).
• Stove: Canister stove (e.g., Jetboil Flash) with 2–3 fuel canisters.
• Water Treatment: Filter (Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree) + chemical tablets (iodine or chlorine dioxide) as backup.
• Navigation: Garmin inReach Mini 2 (satellite communicator), topographic maps (USGS 7.5’), compass, and offline GPS app (Gaia GPS).
• Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, insulated mid-layer, waterproof shell, quick-dry pants, hiking boots (break in before departure), wool socks (2–3 pairs), hat, gloves.
• Food: 1.5–2 pounds per day. Prioritize calorie-dense, lightweight foods: nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, dehydrated meals, jerky, peanut butter, oatmeal.
• First Aid: Blister care (moleskin, leukotape), pain relievers, antihistamines, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, personal medications.

Test all gear on a 2–3 night shakedown hike before departure. Nothing fails like untested equipment in the rain.

6. Map Your Resupply Points

There are no towns along the entire loop, so resupplying requires strategic planning. Key resupply towns include:

• Williamstown, MA (Start): Grocery store, outdoor shop.
• Manchester Center, VT: 50 miles in. Full grocery store, post office for mail drops.
• Stowe, VT: 100 miles in. Excellent food options, laundry, lodging.
• Woodstock, VT: 160 miles in. Pharmacies, bakeries, bike shops for parcel pickup.
• Burlington, VT: 220 miles in. Largest city on the route. Full services, airport access.

Use USPS mail drops to send pre-packed food boxes to post offices 1–2 weeks ahead. Label clearly with your full name and “Hiker” designation. Confirm with each post office that they accept hiker mail.

For spontaneous resupply, carry a cash buffer ($150–$200) for emergencies. ATMs are scarce outside towns.

7. Master Water Sourcing and Treatment

Water is abundant but not always safe. Streams, springs, and lakes are plentiful, but agricultural runoff, wildlife, and human activity can contaminate sources.

Best practices:

• Always filter or treat water—even clear, fast-moving streams.
• Look for springs above trails; they’re less likely to be contaminated.
• Carry 2–3 liters capacity. Refill at least twice daily.
• Use a gravity filter at camp for efficiency.
• Boiling is unnecessary if using a certified filter (NSF P231 or P248).

Mark water sources on your map. Some seasonal streams dry up in late August—verify conditions with the GMC before departure.

8. Navigate with Precision

Trail markers on the Green Mountain Loop are generally well-maintained, but sections—especially the Catamount Trail and Mettawee Connector—have sparse signage. Relying on GPS alone is risky.

Navigation protocol:

• Carry physical USGS maps (1:24,000 scale) for every segment.
• Use Gaia GPS or AllTrails offline with the “Green Mountain Loop” custom route loaded.
• Set your GPS to record track logs every 10 seconds.
• Check your position every 15–20 minutes against terrain features (ridgelines, streams, peaks).
• Learn to read contour lines: steep sections show tightly packed lines; valleys show wide spacing.
• Carry a mirror or whistle for emergency signaling.

Always tell someone your itinerary and check-in daily via satellite messenger. If you miss a check-in, your contact should alert local rangers.

9. Camp Strategically

There are over 100 designated backcountry campsites along the loop, many maintained by the Green Mountain Club. These sites have fire rings, latrines, and tent pads. Reserve them only if you’re hiking during peak season (July–August) and want guaranteed space.

For dispersed camping:

• Choose flat, durable surfaces—avoid vegetation.
• Stay 200 feet from water, trails, and property lines.
• Hang food in a bear bag at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk of a tree. Use odor-proof bags (Opsak).
• Never camp in meadows or alpine zones—they’re fragile and protected.
• Use a tarp under your tent for moisture protection.

Always leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. Pack out all trash, including food scraps and toilet paper.

10. Manage Physical and Mental Demands

The Green Mountain Loop is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Fatigue, isolation, and weather can erode morale.

Physical preparation:

• Train for 3–4 months before departure: long weekend hikes with 30+ lb packs, elevation gain of 2,000+ feet per hike.
• Strengthen quads, glutes, and core with squats, lunges, and step-ups.
• Practice walking on uneven terrain with a loaded pack.

Mental strategies:

• Break the hike into daily goals: “Today I reach the next shelter.”
• Keep a journal—reflecting on progress builds resilience.
• Listen to audiobooks or podcasts (downloaded offline) for motivation.
• Connect with other hikers when possible. The trail community is strong and supportive.
• Accept that some days will be hard. Rest without guilt.

Best Practices

Adopt Leave No Trace Principles

The Green Mountain Loop’s beauty depends on responsible stewardship. Follow all seven Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, weather, and terrain. Carry a repair kit.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to trails. Avoid trampling vegetation.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash. Bury human waste 6–8 inches deep, 200 feet from water. Use wag bags in high-use areas.
4. Leave What You Find: Don’t pick flowers, carve trees, or collect rocks.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a stove. If fires are allowed, use existing rings and burn only small sticks.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed animals.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Yield to uphill hikers. Keep noise low. Respect solitude.

Hydrate and Fuel Consistently

Dehydration and energy depletion are silent killers on long hikes. Drink water every 20 minutes, even if you’re not thirsty. Eat every 1–2 hours—don’t wait until you’re hungry. A mix of carbs, fats, and protein keeps energy stable.

Carry electrolyte tablets (e.g., Nuun) to prevent cramps. Avoid sugary gels as primary fuel—they cause crashes.

Protect Against Insects and Ticks

Vermont has a high tick population, especially in low-lying, brushy areas. Lyme disease is a real risk.

• Wear permethrin-treated clothing (treat boots, socks, pants before departure).
• Use DEET or picaridin on exposed skin.
• Check for ticks daily—especially behind ears, under arms, and in groin area.
• Carry a tick removal tool (e.g., Tick Key).
• If you develop a bullseye rash or fever, seek medical help immediately.

Mosquitoes and black flies are most aggressive in June and July. Use head nets and keep tent zipped.

Prepare for Rapid Weather Changes

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Even in summer, temperatures can drop below 40°F at night. Rain can turn trails into mudslides.

• Always carry a rain jacket and pants—even if the forecast is clear.
• Use waterproof pack covers and dry bags for gear.
• Never hike exposed ridges during thunderstorms. Seek shelter in dense forest.
• Know the signs of hypothermia: shivering, slurred speech, confusion. Act immediately with warm layers and sugary fluids.

Respect Cultural and Historical Sites

Parts of the Green Mountain Loop pass through historic sites: old logging roads, Civilian Conservation Corps structures, and Native American burial grounds. Treat these areas with reverence. Do not touch artifacts or enter restricted zones.

Consult the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation’s online database before your trip to identify sensitive areas.

Tools and Resources

Essential Digital Tools

• Gaia GPS: Premium app with USGS topo maps, trail overlays, and offline functionality. Create a custom route using the Green Mountain Loop GPX file from the Green Mountain Club website.
• AllTrails: User-submitted trail reports and photos. Filter by “Green Mountain Loop” for recent conditions.
• Garmin inReach Mini 2: Satellite communicator with SOS, two-way messaging, and GPS tracking. Essential for remote areas without cell service.
• Weather Apps: Windy.com (for high-altitude wind patterns), NOAA Weather Radar (for storm tracking).
• Trail Wallet: Free app to track daily mileage, expenses, and food intake.

Printed Resources

• Green Mountain Club Trail Guide (2024 Edition): The definitive printed resource. Includes maps, elevation profiles, water sources, and campsite details.
• USGS Topographic Maps: Purchase paper copies of the following quadrangles: Mount Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, Breadloaf, and Stowe.
• “The Long Trail: A Guidebook” by Benjamin and Mary Jane Milford: Historical context and trail lore that enriches the experience.

Community and Support Networks

• Green Mountain Club (greenmountainclub.org): The trail’s steward. Offers volunteer opportunities, trail updates, and a hiker registry.
• Reddit: r/LongTrail: Active forum for real-time advice, gear swaps, and route questions.
• Facebook Groups: “Green Mountain Loop Hikers” and “Vermont Backpackers” have hundreds of active members.
• Trail Angels: Locals who leave water, snacks, or rides at trailheads. Respect their generosity—leave a note of thanks.

Training and Preparation Courses

• NOLS Wilderness First Aid (WFA): Highly recommended for multi-day hikers. Covers trauma, hypothermia, and allergic reactions.
• REI Co-op Classes: Free and low-cost courses on navigation, pack fitting, and backpacking basics.
• Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s “Thru-Hiking 101”: Even though it’s AT-focused, the principles apply directly to the Green Mountain Loop.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: Maya R., 32, Thru-Hiked in September 2023

Maya completed the loop in 20 days with a 40-pound pack. She started in Williamstown and followed the northbound route. Her biggest challenge was navigating the Catamount Trail after heavy rains turned the path into a muddy ribbon.

“I got lost for 90 minutes on a ridge near Glastenbury Mountain. My GPS died. I pulled out my paper map, found a stream, and followed it downhill to the next trail marker. That’s when I realized how vital analog skills are.”

Maya used mail drops to Manchester Center and Woodstock. She carried 12 energy bars, 3 packets of dehydrated meals, and a small jar of peanut butter every day. “I ate like I was training for a marathon—not just surviving.”

She ended her hike at the Canadian border with a sunrise view over Lake Memphremagog. “It wasn’t the summit I came for. It was the silence between the trees.”

Case Study 2: James and Elena, 45 and 47, Section Hiked Over Two Summers

This couple tackled the loop in four sections: 2022 (Williamstown to Manchester), 2023 (Stowe to Burlington). They chose this approach to balance family life with adventure.

“We didn’t want to quit our jobs for three weeks. So we hiked weekends and long holidays. We learned to love the rhythm of the trail—the way the light changes at dawn, the smell of wet pine after rain.”

They used a shared 65L pack and split gear: one carried the tent, the other the stove. They camped in shelters most nights and cooked meals with fellow hikers.

“We met a 72-year-old man hiking alone. He said, ‘I’ve done this loop five times. I come back because it reminds me I’m alive.’ That stuck with us.”

Case Study 3: Dev Patel, 28, Solo Hike with Medical Emergency

Dev developed severe plantar fasciitis on Day 8 near Killington. He couldn’t walk without pain. He activated his Garmin inReach SOS.

Rangers from the Green Mountain National Forest responded within 4 hours via ATV. He was evacuated to a clinic in Rutland and returned home to rest.

“I thought I was invincible. I ignored the pain for two days. I didn’t carry extra pain meds or a foam roller. That was my mistake.”

He returned in 2024 with a custom orthotic, a trekking pole, and a new mindset: “Listen to your body. The trail will still be there tomorrow.”

FAQs

Is the Green Mountain Loop suitable for beginners?

No. The loop is physically demanding with steep, rocky terrain, variable weather, and remote sections. Beginners should start with day hikes on the Long Trail (e.g., Camel’s Hump Day Hike) and build endurance before attempting the full loop.

Can I hike the Green Mountain Loop in winter?

Technically yes, but it is extremely dangerous and not recommended. Snow depths exceed 3 feet in many areas, avalanche risk is present on exposed ridges, and temperatures regularly drop below 0°F. Only experienced winter mountaineers with ice axes, crampons, and avalanche training should attempt it—and even then, only with a team and emergency plan.

Are there water sources every day?

Yes, but not always reliable. In dry years (like 2022), some springs run low by late August. Always carry extra water capacity and treat all sources.

Do I need to carry bear spray?

Bears are present but rarely aggressive. Food storage is more critical than bear spray. Use bear bags or canisters. Bear spray is unnecessary for this region—grizzlies do not live in Vermont.

How do I get to the trailhead if I’m flying in?

Nearest airports: Burlington International (BTV), Albany (ALB), or Bradley (BDL). Rent a car or use shuttle services like Vermont Trail Shuttle or Green Mountain Express. Hitchhiking is common but not guaranteed.

What’s the best time of year to avoid crowds?

Early June (before July 4th) and late September (after Labor Day) offer the best solitude. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but dogs must be leashed on the Long Trail and AT segments. They are not permitted in the Breadloaf Wilderness. Carry dog food, booties for rocky terrain, and a first aid kit for paws.

What should I do if I get injured?

Use your satellite communicator to send an SOS. Stay put. Do not attempt to hike out alone. Rangers and volunteer trail crews respond quickly. Carry a whistle and mirror for signaling.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Spotty at best. Expect coverage only near towns and major ridgelines. Do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies.

How much does it cost to hike the Green Mountain Loop?

Most hikers spend $800–$1,500 on gear, food, and transport. If you already own backpacking gear, food and resupply will cost $300–$500. Avoid lodging unless necessary—camping is free.

Conclusion

Hiking the Green Mountain Loop is more than a physical feat—it’s a journey into the heart of Vermont’s wild soul. It demands preparation, humility, and respect—for the land, for the weather, and for yourself. The trail does not reward speed or ego. It rewards patience, resilience, and presence.

Every step along this loop carries you deeper into silence, into the rhythm of wind through hemlock, into the quiet strength of mountains that have stood for millennia. You will carry mud on your boots, blisters on your feet, and memories in your heart. You will meet strangers who become friends, and you will find parts of yourself you didn’t know were lost.

There is no finish line that truly ends this journey. The Green Mountain Loop lives on—in the way you carry its lessons into your daily life, in the quiet moments when you pause to listen, and in the knowledge that some paths are meant to be walked, not conquered.

So lace up your boots. Pack your map. Trust your instincts. And step onto the trail.