Overview
Mount Mansfield is Vermont's highest peak at 4,393 feet, and the Long Trail route to its summit is one of the most consequential hikes in New England. The trail climbs from the forest floor through hardwood, then conifer, then krummholz into full above-treeline exposure on the summit ridge. The section of the ridge called the Chin is the true highpoint, a rocky scramble above the alpine zone with views that span from the Adirondacks to the White Mountains on clear days.
The Green Mountain National Forest provides the land base for the Long Trail corridor, though the summit itself sits within Mount Mansfield State Forest managed by Vermont. The two land management units are managed cooperatively and the transition is seamless from a hiking perspective. The trail is part of the Long Trail, maintained by the Green Mountain Club, and the treadway reflects decades of careful stewardship.
This is a strenuous hike. The 2,500 feet of elevation gain over 4.2 miles to the summit is sustained and demanding, and the exposed ridge walk near the top adds technical complexity in wet, icy, or windy conditions. Come prepared.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: Forest approach. The trail begins in northern hardwood forest and climbs steadily on a well-worn tread through birch and maple. The grade is consistent but not brutal in this lower section. The canopy closes overhead and trail markers on trees guide the route.
Miles 1.5 to 3.0: Conifer zone and steepening grade. As the trail gains elevation, northern hardwoods give way to spruce and fir. The grade steepens and the tread becomes rockier. Several stream crossings may be tricky in high-water spring conditions. Trekking poles are helpful here.
Miles 3.0 to 3.8: Krummholz and treeline. The trees shrink and the tread transitions to open rock with cairns marking the route. The views begin to open at around 3,500 feet, and by the time the trail reaches the base of the Chin, the full summit panorama comes into view. This section requires some scrambling on wet rock; caution is warranted.
Miles 3.8 to 4.2: Summit ridge (the Chin). The final push to 4,393 feet crosses exposed alpine terrain. Stay on cairned routes to protect fragile alpine vegetation. The Chin is a rocky knob at the northern end of the summit ridge. On clear days, the Champlain Valley spreads west, the Adirondacks rise on the far shore of Lake Champlain, and the White Mountains are visible to the northeast. The Long Trail continues north from here toward Canada.
Return: Retrace the route back to the trailhead. Descent takes roughly 70 percent of the ascent time for most hikers, but the rocky sections demand continued attention.
When to Visit
Summer (late June through August) is the most reliable season. Snow is typically gone from the summit by late June. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially in July and August. Start early and plan to be off the exposed ridge by early afternoon.
Fall (September through mid-October) brings spectacular foliage views from the summit and cooler, often clearer air than summer. October can bring the first snowfall on the summit. Check conditions carefully as the season progresses.
Winter and early spring: Above-treeline sections require full alpine gear including crampons and an ice axe in icy conditions. Unexpectedly severe weather can develop rapidly on the summit ridge. Only experienced winter hikers should attempt this route in cold months. Review the conditions guide before any off-season attempt.
Peregrine falcon nesting sometimes results in seasonal trail closures on sections of the summit ridge, typically spring through early summer. Check with the ranger district or the Green Mountain Club for current closure status.
What to Bring
Many hikers on this route carry:
- Trekking poles (particularly helpful on rocky descent sections)
- Rain gear (afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer; conditions change rapidly above treeline)
- Warm layers (temperature on the summit can be 15-20 degrees cooler than the trailhead)
- At least 2-3 liters of water (individual needs vary; no reliable water source on the upper mountain)
- High-calorie food for a 5-7 hour day
- Map and compass or downloaded offline maps (cell service is unreliable)
- Headlamp in case of unexpected delays
Consider bringing microspikes for late spring trips when ice lingers on the upper trail, and full crampons for any winter attempt.
Practical Details
The trail uses Long Trail blazes (white rectangles painted on trees and rocks). Blazes are consistent but can be hard to spot in fog. The summit ridge is marked with cairns above treeline.
Dogs are allowed but should be leashed near the summit area, particularly in areas with peregrine activity. Bring enough water for your dog; there is no reliable water source near the summit.
Food storage: Black bears are present throughout the Green Mountains. At backcountry sites, hang food at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk, or use a bear canister. See the bear canister requirements guide.
Parking: The Underhill State Park trailhead charges a state park day-use fee as of 2026. The toll road to the summit ridgeline (operated by the city of Stowe) provides an alternate access option but involves fees and road walking.
Getting There
From Burlington, take I-89 south to Exit 11 (Richmond), then Route 2 east to Route 117. Follow signs to Underhill Center and Underhill State Park. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes from Burlington.
From Stowe, the Toll Road provides a shorter approach to the summit ridge but involves a separate fee. The Toll Road approach is a different route than the Long Trail ascent from the west.
Download the USFS Green Mountain visitor map or the Green Mountain Club Long Trail map before your trip. Cell service is unreliable at the trailhead and on the mountain.