Long Trail in Sept

imported
#1

From most of the journals I’ve read about the LT it seems to be over grown in late fall.

Anyone know what the trail conditions are like in mid September as far as 'shwacking goes? I don’t feel like shredding my Patagucci or getting poison ivy all over.

Bushwhack

#2

What parts were you concerned with overgrowth, BW?

When I hiked it in '03, finishing up near the end of August, the leaves were just starting to turn; a few had dropped. I just don’t recall any sections that were overgrown, or that could overgrow within two weeks. Maybe the section a day or two from the Inn at Long Trail/Maine junction had that potential.

Are you thinking of starting from Canada and walking south with fall? What a great time. You’ll have the peaks to yourself on non-weekend days.

Jan LiteShoe

#3

I thru-hiked in 2003 and finished September 9. I also spend most summers hiking the portion from Middlebury Gap to River Road. The only likely section you might encounter as “overgrown” would be between Route 4 and Route 73 (Killington to Brandon Gap). Also, just south of Sunset Ledge (this lookoff is a mile south of Lincoln Gap), you’ll encounter raspberry bushes growing into the trail. September is fantastic - cool nights, clear days, and no bugs. Enjoy your hike.

Rough

#4

The LT was overgrown north of rt. 4 when I hiked last July - the section overlapping the AT is certainly given special treatment.

That said, the trail is maintained by volunteers and the maintenance can be spotty. The overgrowth will depend on how recently volunteers have been out to clear. If you wear gators, you should be all right no matter how rampant the ferns and nettles are.

tumblina

#5

That’s good news, kids. I remember north of The Inn at Long Trail in '01 and it seemed to be a wall of trees. Must have been the pain of hiking or something. Looks like the maintainers are at it well.

North to south so we end at the Inn. J.L., thanks.

BW

#6

In 04 the trail just south of and north of the Tolliston Camp was very overgrown. Over my head and hard to see the trail overgrown. Sue

Hammock Hanger