Long Trail
3–4 weeks · 247.2 mi · strenuous · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the Long Trail is known for
The Long Trail follows the main ridge of Vermont's Green Mountains the length of the state and is the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States. It's known for rugged, rooty terrain and shares its southern third with the Appalachian Trail.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 367 ft to 4,324 ft over 247.2 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 62.8 mi · 25%
- Downhill 63.7 mi · 26%
- Flat 120.5 mi · 49%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the Long Trail?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Long Trail scores 99/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Best season & permits
Season: Late spring through fall (the higher ridge is muddy early season).
Permits: No permit; some shelters charge a caretaker fee.
Official trail & permit info
Always confirm current conditions, closures, and permit rules with the managing authority before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Long Trail take?
Most backpackers take 3–4 weeks to hike the Long Trail's 247.2 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Long Trail?
The Long Trail climbs roughly 62,149 ft total — about 251 ft per mile, topping out near 4,334 ft.
When is the best time to hike the Long Trail?
Late spring through fall (the higher ridge is muddy early season).
Do you need a permit for the Long Trail?
No permit; some shelters charge a caretaker fee.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.