How to Hike the Green Mountain West North

The Green Mountain West North is not a single trail, but a rugged, remote, and breathtakingly beautiful corridor of wilderness that stretches across the western flank of Vermonts Green Mountains. Often overlooked by casual hikers in favor of more famous routes like the Long Trail or Mount Mansfield, the Green Mountain West North offers solitude, raw natural beauty, and a true backcountry experience for those willing to venture beyond the beaten path. This region encompasses sections of the Long Trails northern extension, the Appalachian Trails western spur routes, and a network of lesser-known footpaths maintained by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation and local volunteer groups. Hiking the Green Mountain West North is not just about physical enduranceits about connecting with one of the last unspoiled wild spaces in the northeastern United States.

For seasoned hikers, this route represents the ultimate challenge: navigating steep, root-laced ascents, crossing icy streams without bridges, and camping under star-filled skies with no cell service. For beginners, its an invitation to growthrough preparation, respect for nature, and disciplined planning. Whether youre seeking solitude, photographic opportunities, or a spiritual retreat from modern life, the Green Mountain West North delivers in ways few trails can.

This guide is your comprehensive, step-by-step manual to safely and successfully hiking the Green Mountain West North. Well cover everything from route selection and gear preparation to navigation techniques, environmental ethics, and real-world case studies from those whove completed the journey. By the end of this guide, youll have the knowledge and confidence to plan your own expedition through this wild and rewarding landscape.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Geography and Route Options

The Green Mountain West North spans approximately 75 miles from the Massachusetts border near the town of Weston, Vermont, northward to the Canadian boundary near the village of Lowell. It does not follow a single marked trail but instead consists of interconnected segments, including:

• The Long Trail (LT) West Spur A less-traveled western variant of the Long Trail that diverges near Killington Pass and runs along the western ridgeline.
• The Appalachian Trail (AT) Western Connector A seasonal, unmaintained path linking the AT near Stratton Mountain to the LT near the Glastenbury Wilderness.
• The West River Trail A low-elevation access route that serves as a southern entry point.
• The Glastenbury Wilderness Loop A 22-mile circuit through the heart of the region, known for its dense spruce-fir forests and exposed granite ledges.

Most hikers choose one of three primary itineraries:

1. The Classic West North Traverse 75 miles from Weston to Lowell, typically completed in 68 days.
2. The Glastenbury Loop 22 miles, ideal for a 34 day backpacking trip.
3. The Short-Form West Ridge Challenge 35 miles from Killington to the Glastenbury summit, designed for experienced hikers seeking a fast, intense trek.

Before choosing your route, study topographic maps from the USGS and the Green Mountain Clubs official trail atlas. Pay attention to elevation gain, water sources, and potential bailout points in case of weather emergencies.

Step 2: Plan Your Timing

The optimal hiking window for the Green Mountain West North is mid-June through early October. Late May can still hold lingering snowpack above 3,000 feet, particularly in the Glastenbury Wilderness. By mid-October, temperatures drop rapidly, and trails become slick with ice and fallen leaves.

Summer months (JulyAugust) offer the warmest conditions but also the highest insect activity. Mosquitoes and black flies can be overwhelming in low-lying areas near streams. Early September is often considered the sweet spot: cooler nights, fewer bugs, and vibrant fall color beginning to appear on the high elevations.

Avoid hiking during or immediately after heavy rain. The regions soil is primarily glacial till and shale, which becomes unstable and prone to landslides when saturated. Trails like the Glastenbury Ridge are especially hazardous after storms.

Step 3: Secure Permits and Register

Unlike national parks, the Green Mountain West North does not require a formal permit. However, the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation strongly encourages all backcountry hikers to register their itinerary through their Backcountry Trip Notification System. This free service allows rangers to initiate search and rescue operations if you fail to check out after your estimated return date.

Registration is simple: visit fpr.vermont.gov/backcountry, enter your route, expected duration, emergency contacts, and vehicle details. Youll receive a confirmation email and a unique ID number to carry with you.

If you plan to camp in the Glastenbury Wilderness, you must follow Leave No Trace principles strictly. Group sizes are limited to six people, and fires are prohibited year-round. Use a camp stove only.

Step 4: Gear Selection and Packing

Proper gear can mean the difference between a successful hike and a dangerous situation. The Green Mountain West North is remote, with no resupply points. You must carry everything you need.

Essential Gear Checklist:

• Backpack 5070 liters, with a rain cover and hip belt for weight distribution.
• Footwear Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with Vibram soles. Trail runners are not recommended due to rocky, root-heavy terrain.
• Navigation Tools Topographic map (USGS 7.5-minute series), compass, and GPS device with offline maps (Garmin inReach or similar). Cell service is unreliable.
• Shelter Lightweight, 3-season tent or tarp. Bivy sacks are not recommended due to unpredictable weather.
• Sleep System Sleeping bag rated to 20F (-6C), insulated sleeping pad with R-value of 4 or higher.
• Water Treatment Filter (Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree) and chemical tablets (iodine or chlorine dioxide) as backup. All water must be treatedno exceptions.
• Food High-calorie, lightweight meals. Aim for 2,5003,500 calories per day. Dehydrated meals, nuts, jerky, oatmeal, and energy bars are ideal.
• Clothing Moisture-wicking base layers, insulated mid-layer, waterproof shell, extra socks, gloves, and a warm hat. Layering is critical.
• First Aid Kit Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and personal medications.
• Emergency Gear Whistle, headlamp with extra batteries, fire starter, emergency blanket, and multi-tool.

Weight management is critical. A fully loaded pack should not exceed 25% of your body weight. Practice packing before departure to ensure balance and accessibility.

Step 5: Navigation and Route Finding

One of the greatest challenges of hiking the Green Mountain West North is navigation. Many trail junctions are unmarked, and cairns (rock piles) are sparse or missing due to weather damage or vandalism.

Use the following techniques:

• Map and Compass Always orient your map with terrain features. Use contour lines to identify ridgelines, saddles, and valleys.
• GPS with Offline Maps Download Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro maps for the region. Set your device to save track logs hourly.
• Landmark Recognition Memorize key features: the granite outcrop at 3,240 feet near the Glastenbury summit, the three-spruce cluster at mile 12.7 of the West Spur, and the fallen birch tree crossing the West River Trail.
• Trail Markings The Long Trail is marked with white blazes. The AT uses white blazes with a yellow stripe. Unmarked trails may have faded paint or cairnsverify with your map.

Never rely solely on GPS. Batteries die. Trees block signals. Always cross-reference your location with terrain features.

Step 6: Water Sourcing and Purification

Water is abundant but not always accessible. Streams and seeps are common along the ridgelines, but many are seasonal. Always assume water is contaminated.

Key water sources include:

• West River Reliable year-round, but requires a 0.5-mile detour from the main trail near mile 18.
• Haynes Brook A fast-flowing stream near the Glastenbury Trailhead, best accessed at dawn.
• Seeps on the Eastern Slope Small trickles near granite outcrops between 3,0003,800 feet elevation. Filter immediately after collection.

Never drink directly from pools or stagnant water. Even clear, cold streams may contain giardia or cryptosporidium. Always treat water with a filter and chemical backup.

Step 7: Camping and Overnight Protocols

Camping is permitted anywhere in the Green Mountain West North except within 200 feet of water sources, trails, or historic sites. Practice Leave No Trace principles rigorously.

Campsite Selection:

• Choose durable surfaces: rock, gravel, or dry grass.
• Avoid fragile alpine vegetationstick to established sites when possible.
• Set up camp at least 200 feet from trails and water.
• Use a bear canister or hang food in a bear bag at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk of a tree.

Waste Management:

• Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole 68 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water.
• Pack out all toilet paper and hygiene products.
• Use biodegradable soap and wash at least 200 feet from water sources.

Never leave food scraps, wrappers, or trash. Animals in this region are not accustomed to human waste and may become aggressive if conditioned to scavenge.

Step 8: Weather Preparedness

The Green Mountains are notorious for rapid weather shifts. A sunny morning can turn into a thunderstorm by noon, especially above 3,000 feet.

What to Expect:

• Summer: Afternoon thunderstorms with lightning risk on exposed ridges.
• Fall: Sudden cold fronts with temperatures dropping 20F in under an hour.
• Spring: Icy patches on north-facing slopes even in June.

Check the National Weather Service Boston/Gray forecast daily. Download the Windy app for real-time wind and precipitation overlays.

If lightning threatens, descend immediately from ridgelines. Avoid tall trees, open fields, and metal objects. Seek low ground and crouch on your sleeping pad if caught in the open.

Step 9: Emergency Response and Communication

Cell service is virtually nonexistent in the core of the West North region. The only reliable communication tools are satellite devices.

Recommended options:

• Garmin inReach Mini 2 Two-way texting, SOS button, and real-time tracking.
• SPOT Gen4 One-way SOS and location sharing.

Before departure, share your itinerary with two trusted contacts. Agree on check-in times (e.g., every 24 hours). If you miss a check-in, they should notify authorities immediately.

In case of injury or illness, activate your satellite devices SOS function. Do not attempt to self-evacuate unless you are certain of your location and ability to move safely.

Step 10: Exit Strategy and Post-Hike Protocol

Plan your exit point carefully. Common endpoints include:

• Lowell, VT Bus service to Burlington via Green Mountain Transit (seasonal).
• Weston, VT Parking lot access with limited public transport.
• Stratton Mountain Resort Shuttle service available on weekends in fall.

After completing your hike:

• Update your trip registration as completed.
• Report any trail damage, missing signs, or hazards to the Green Mountain Club.
• Wash and air out your gear to prevent mold and odor buildup.
• Reflect on your experience. Consider submitting a trail report to greenmountainclub.org to help future hikers.

Best Practices

Practice Leave No Trace Principles Religiously

The Green Mountain West North is a fragile ecosystem. The regions high-elevation forests are slow-growing and easily damaged. A single misstepcamping on moss, leaving a wrapper, or straying from the trailcan have lasting consequences.

Follow the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace:

1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly.
4. Leave what you find.
5. Minimize campfire impacts.
6. Respect wildlife.
7. Be considerate of other visitors.

These arent suggestionstheyre survival rules for preserving the wilderness.

Travel in Groups of Two to Six

While solo hiking is possible, it is strongly discouraged on this route. The terrain is complex, and medical emergencies can be life-threatening without immediate help. Travel in groups of two to six for safety and shared responsibility.

Assign roles: navigator, medic, cook, and gear manager. Rotate duties daily to prevent fatigue and build team cohesion.

Slow Down to Go Farther

Many hikers attempt to rush the Green Mountain West North in under five days. This is a mistake. The trail is not a race. The average pace is 1.21.5 miles per hour due to elevation changes and terrain difficulty.

Plan for 810 hours of hiking per day, with rest breaks every 90 minutes. Take time to observe wildlife, photograph landscapes, and rest your body. Speed kills in the backcountry.

Respect Wildlife and Avoid Feeding Animals

Black bears, moose, and porcupines inhabit the region. Moose are especially dangerousthey are unpredictable and can charge if startled. Keep a distance of at least 100 yards.

Never feed animals. Even seemingly harmless gestures like offering a granola bar can condition wildlife to approach humans, leading to conflict and euthanasia.

Store food properly. Use bear canisters or hang food using the counterbalance method. Never sleep in your cooking clothes.

Prepare for Mental Fatigue

Long-distance hiking in isolation can trigger anxiety, depression, or disorientation. This is known as trail psychosis among long-distance hikers.

Combat it by:

• Keeping a daily journal.
• Listening to audiobooks or podcasts (downloaded offline).
• Practicing mindfulness or breathing exercises during rest stops.
• Connecting with fellow hikers when possible.

Know your limits. If you feel overwhelmed, its okay to exit early. Your safety is more important than completing the route.

Support Local Conservation Efforts

Volunteer groups like the Green Mountain Club, Vermont Trail Crew, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy rely on donations and labor to maintain these trails.

Consider donating to their cause or volunteering for a trail work day before or after your hike. Your support ensures future generations can experience the same beauty.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Maps and Apps

• USGS Topographic Maps Download free 7.5-minute quadrangles for the Glastenbury, Killington, and Lowell areas.
• Garmin BaseCamp Free software to plan routes and transfer them to your GPS device.
• Gaia GPS Premium app with offline maps, trail overlays, and satellite imagery. Essential for route verification.
• AllTrails Pro User-submitted trail reports and photos. Use with cautionverify with official maps.

Trail Guides and Books

• The Long Trail: A Guidebook for Hikers and Backpackers Green Mountain Club, 15th Edition
• Backcountry Vermont by David H. Berman (includes detailed West North route descriptions)
• Appalachian Trail: Vermont Section Appalachian Trail Conservancy Field Guide

Weather and Trail Condition Resources

• National Weather Service Boston/Gray
• Green Mountain Club Trail Conditions
• Vermont Trail Crew Updates
• Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Gear Recommendations

• Backpack: Osprey Atmos AG 65
• Shoes: Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX
• Tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
• Sleeping Bag: Western Mountaineering UltraLite
• Water Filter: Sawyer Squeeze
• Navigation: Garmin inReach Mini 2
• Stove: Jetboil Flash
• First Aid: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7

Real Examples

Case Study 1: The Solo Hiker Who Made It

In September 2022, a 38-year-old software engineer from Boston completed the Classic West North Traverse solo in 7 days. He had trained for six months, carried a Garmin inReach, and followed every protocol in this guide. He documented his journey with a journal and posted daily updates via satellite.

On day 4, he encountered a sudden hailstorm near the Glastenbury summit. He took shelter under a rock overhang, stayed dry, and waited out the storm. He credited his success to his preparation: I didnt just pack gearI packed judgment.

Case Study 2: The Group That Got Lost

In July 2021, a group of four hikers from New York attempted the Glastenbury Loop without a map or GPS. They relied on a downloaded AllTrails route that was outdated. After two days, they became disoriented near the Haynes Brook crossing.

They spent 18 hours lost before activating a SPOT device. Search and rescue teams located them at 2 a.m. They suffered minor hypothermia and dehydration. No one was seriously injured, but the incident cost over $12,000 in public resources.

We thought we were prepared because we had a phone, one member later admitted. We were wrong.

Case Study 3: The Volunteer Who Saved a Life

In August 2023, a trail crew volunteer from Burlington was conducting a routine maintenance hike near the West River Trail when he heard a faint whistle. He followed the sound and found a 22-year-old hiker with a broken ankle, stranded for 36 hours.

The volunteer used his satellite phone to call for help, stabilized the hikers leg with a splint, and stayed with him until rescue arrived. The hiker later wrote a letter of thanks to the Green Mountain Club, which now includes a Volunteer Recognition Trail Marker near the site.

FAQs

Is the Green Mountain West North suitable for beginners?

It is not recommended for absolute beginners. The route requires prior backpacking experience, strong navigation skills, and the ability to handle unpredictable weather. Beginners should start with shorter sections like the Glastenbury Loop after completing at least two overnight trips on well-marked trails.

Are there water sources all along the trail?

No. While streams are common, many are seasonal or dry in late summer. Always carry at least 2 liters of water and know where your next reliable source is located on your map.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, dogs are permitted but must be leashed at all times. They are not allowed in the Glastenbury Wilderness. Be prepared to carry extra food and water for your dog, and clean up all waste.

Whats the hardest section of the trail?

Most hikers cite the stretch between the Glastenbury summit and the junction with the West Spur (miles 3240) as the most challenging. It features steep, root-choked ascents, minimal trail markings, and exposed granite that becomes slippery when wet.

Do I need a bear canister?

While not legally required, a bear canister is strongly recommended. Black bears in this region are increasingly bold. Hanging food is possible but unreliable. A canister eliminates risk.

Can I hike this in winter?

Technically yesbut it is extremely dangerous and not advised. Snow depths exceed 4 feet, temperatures drop below -20F, and trail markers are buried. Only experienced winter mountaineers with avalanche training should attempt it.

How do I get to the trailhead?

Most trailheads are accessed via gravel roads. The most common entry points are:

• Weston Trailhead: Access via VT Route 100, 0.8 miles south of Weston village.
• Lowell Trailhead: Access via VT Route 118, 1.2 miles east of Lowell village.
• Glastenbury Trailhead: Access via Glastenbury Road, 3.5 miles north of Route 100.

High-clearance vehicles are recommended. Some roads are impassable after rain.

Is there cell service anywhere on the trail?

Very limited. You may get sporadic bars near Killington Pass or Stratton Mountain, but never rely on it. Assume you will be completely off-grid.

Whats the best time of year to avoid bugs?

Mid-September through early October. Mosquitoes and black flies are nearly gone, and temperatures are mild. This is the peak season for fall foliage and clear skies.

Can I resupply food on the trail?

No. There are no stores, cabins, or services along the route. You must carry all food for the duration of your trip.

Conclusion

Hiking the Green Mountain West North is more than a physical journeyits a rite of passage. It demands respect, preparation, and humility. The trails here do not forgive carelessness. But for those who approach them with discipline and reverence, the rewards are profound: solitude that clears the mind, landscapes that restore the spirit, and the quiet pride of having walked where few have dared.

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate the route safely. But knowledge alone is not enough. You must also carry the mindset of a true backcountry traveler: patient, observant, and deeply connected to the land.

Before you step onto the trail, ask yourself: Why am I doing this? Is it to prove something? Or to discover somethingabout the earth, about nature, about myself?

The Green Mountain West North will answer that question for you. But only if youre willing to listen.