Long Trail to Mount Abraham

The most common starting point for this hike is from the Lincoln Gap trailhead. There's a parking area available there, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends during peak season. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on this trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem near the summit and for the safety of other hikers and wildlife. Please remember to pack out all waste.

Late spring through early fall (May to October) is generally the best time. The trail can be wet after rainfall, so consider conditions. Fall offers spectacular foliage, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially earlier snow at higher elevations. Winter hiking is possible but requires specialized gear and experience.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Long Trail to Mount Abraham within the Green Mountain National Forest. However, standard Leave No Trace principles apply, and hikers are encouraged to respect all regulations to preserve the natural environment.

The trail begins with a gradual ascent through hardwood forests, transitioning to subalpine and conifer forests as you gain elevation. The path is a mix of high mountain forest and rocky, rooted sections, which can be wet. The final stretch to the Mount Abraham summit becomes significantly steeper and rockier, often requiring some scrambling. The summit itself is an alpine zone with unique scrub vegetation.

The total roundtrip distance from Lincoln Gap is around 5.1 to 5.7 miles, with an estimated hiking time of about 4 hours. This duration can vary based on your fitness level, pace, and how much time you spend enjoying the views at the summit.

Beyond the stunning panoramic views from the Mount Abraham summit, you'll pass the Battell Shelter, a common overnight stop for Long Trail hikers, located about 0.8 to 1.1 miles below the summit. For those interested, parts of a historic Cessna plane crash from 1973 can still be found near the summit.

Yes, this route is part of the iconic Long Trail, the oldest long-distance trail in the United States. It also includes sections of the Battell Trail.

While the initial sections are a gradual climb, the last 0.3 to 1 mile before the summit is notably steep, rocky, and involves scrambling. This makes the overall hike moderate to strenuous and potentially challenging for beginners or very young children. Consider their experience and stamina before attempting the full summit.

Even for a day hike, it's wise to bring plenty of water, snacks, a map and compass or GPS device, rain gear, extra layers of clothing (weather can change quickly at elevation), a first-aid kit, and sturdy hiking boots. Trekking poles can be helpful for the steep and rocky sections.

Yes, adventurous hikers can extend their trip to include nearby Mount Ellen, making for a longer and more challenging 'peak bagging' excursion. This would involve continuing along the Long Trail past Mount Abraham.