Blackflies - The Long Trail - Vermont

imported
#1

How bad are the blackflies going to be in So. Vt during the last days of June/beginning of July? I am assuming that they are going to die out a little by then (hopefully.)

Avalon

#2

Black flies, deer flies, horse flies, DPG’s, skeeters…mmm, nope, not gone, sorry. Small can of Deep Woods Off. Not until it gets cooler at night during the middle of August do any of them die down. If its been a drier spring the bf’s won’t be too bad, not like the bogs in NH. A head net, some long pant and a light colored shirt would be good.

Bushwhack

#3

I have been doing a lot of hiking this spring and have found that the bugs in NH at least have not been too bad this year. The ticks have been worse then usual but only in the low lands. I did a 20 mile hike Friday in the Zealand Notch area and except for at Ethan Pond area the bugs were not even worth putting bug dope on for. That could change as quick as the weather around here though.

Big B

#4

I hiked the LT/AT from rt 9 to the forest service road (10 I think) just past big branch 6/6 - 6/10. When the weather was sunny and above 80, they very annoying, but deet helps for a few hours. Below that or when cloudy it was not a problem for me.

I assume it will be better early July.

Hope this helps.

Swampyankee

#5

Just came off division 2 of the LT, and the flies were very bad in places. Ben’s insect repellent did little to slow them down. Be afraid. Realistically, the best thing to do is keep moving; it’s worst when trying to do something like cook, where you’re out and unprotected. Good Luck.

Turtle

#6

I am visiting my parents in Vermont, and just hiked from Kelly Stand Road to the summit of Stratton and back. I was bit by one fly before putting on Deet, and none afterwards. Hugh and Jeane (caretakers on Stratton), say that the unseasonably cold weather has kept them away this year. Bring some Deet to keep the occasional blackfly and the no see’ums away, but I don’t think you need a head net.

Bankrobber