Stretching 272 miles along Vermont’s spine, the Long Trail is a rugged invitation to travelers who appreciate terrain that tests the body and rewards the spirit. Its forested tracks press into a wilderness that is fiercely itself—unforgiving yet patient, shaped by winds that twist through ancient hardwoods and ridgelines that challenge with steep ascents and wide panoramic views.

Among the top scenic sections, the stretch between Killington Peak and Mount Abraham offers a dramatic mix of ridge hikes and hidden campsites tucked beneath dense spruce. This 14-mile segment moves you through shifting ecosystems, where the forest canopy loosens and leaves way for expansive sky, daring every step forward. Elevation changes here reach nearly 3,000 feet total, demanding steady footing on rocky paths—and strong legs.

Another standout route follows the stretch from Stratton Pond to Stratton Mountain. Just under 9 miles, it delivers a balance of quiet pond reflections and a final summit that gazes out over the Green Mountains’ undulating ridges. The campsite at Stratton Pond itself is a perfect overnight spot, shielded by old-growth hemlocks that seem to whisper with each breeze. Hydration is critical here—water is abundant but requires treatment, so filtering gear is a must.

For those eager to explore hidden gems, the section around the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area between Silver Lake and Goshen Pass hides small, well-maintained sites away from the main ridges. This 11-mile path offers gentler climbs with long stretches beside brooks that chatter and rush, pushing you onward. Expect mud and roots on these less-traveled tracks, so waterproof boots will serve you well.

Planning a Long Trail backpacking trip means more than mapping miles: timing is everything. The window from late June through early October brings stable weather, but afternoon rains and chilly nights call for layered clothing. Spring melts can linger on shaded slopes into May, while autumn rewards with crisp air and fiery leaves but shorter daylight.

Essential gear? Purpose-built footwear, water filtration, layered insulation, and a reliable shelter shaped to the seasonal beat of the mountains. The trail demands respect and mindfulness. It isn’t simply a path to cross—it’s a force, shaping each hiker with its grit and grace.

With careful preparation, the Long Trail’s wild sections deliver a deeply rewarding immersion into a landscape that pushes you to engage, endure, and emerge refreshed. Each ridge walk and hidden campsite is a narrative between adventurer and wilderness, alive with the push and pull of nature’s tight embrace.