Mount Mansfield is the highest mountain in Vermont; being the highest in the state it is also the highpoint of Chittenden County. The mountain gets its name because when viewed from the east its summit ridge resembles the profile of a human face, and the names of its prominent features reflect this: Adams Apple (4,060'), Chin (4,393', highest point), Nose (4,062') and Forehead (3,940'). For about 2.3 miles (from the Adams Apple to the Forehead) the Long Trail is almost constantly above treeline, the only such long stretch of alpine zone in Vermont. Please stay on the trail to avoid harming the delicate vegetation! As the Long Trail Guide writes:

Mount Mansfield is the most frequently visited mountain in Vermont with nearly 40,000 visitors walking its upper reaches every year. This use has severely affected its fragile ecosystem.

Mount Mansfield is one of two places in Vermont where Artic Tundra can be found; the other place being Camels Hump. There are about 200 acres of Artic Tundra on Mount Mansfield; Camels Hump only holds a few acres.

Mount Mansfield in January from Underhill

The weather on Mount Mansfield can be very different from the lower surrounding areas. In winter, blowing snow and clouds are very common conditions on the summit. Above the tree line, complete whiteouts leading to disorientation may occur; be very cautious when ascending in these conditions. Visibility may be only 20 feet, so it is very easy to get lost while ascending or descending from the summit. Use less exposed routes in these conditions, for example use Laura Cowles trail instead of Sunset Ridge (Sunset Ridge is exposed for over 50% of the route).

Routes Overview

There are very many trails up the mountain, I will describe a few of the more popular routes.

The classic loop goes up by the Long Trail from Smuggler's Notch (on VT 108, east of the mountain), past Taft Lodge, to the col (Eagle Pass) between the Chin and the Nose. There is a section with steep ledges between the Chin and Eagle Pass, I prefer to go up it than down! Follow the ridge for about 2 miles to the Summit Station at the base of the Nose. Descend a short distance on the Toll Road, then take the Haselton Trail to the base of the mountain on VT 108, about a mile south of where you started. This loop is about 6.5 miles with 2,800 feet of elevation gain. Note that the entire ridge is very exposed to the elements.

In bad weather it is much preferable to avoid the loop and just go up and back on the Long Trail. The amount of exposure can be further reduced by going from Taft Lodge to the Chin by the very steep, but sheltered, Profanity Trail.

Another popular approach is from Underhill State Park to the west of the mountain. The scenic route is the Sunset Ridge Trail, which follows the Sunset Ridge above treeline for almost a mile. This is 3.3 miles (one way) with an elevation gain of 2,700 feet. You can return the way you came, or make a loop back to the same trailhead by following the Laura Coles Trail, saving about 0.6 miles.

Those who want to get to the summit the easy way can use the toll road or gondola to get up to the ridge. You may want to read about a trip report about doing it the easy way.

Getting There

To get to the LT and Haselton Trail trailheads follow VT 100 north to Stowe, then take VT 108. The Haselton Trail starts in the Gondola Base Lodge parking lot, the LT trailhead is 0.6 further north.

The Sunset Ridge Trail starts at Underhill State Park. From Underhill Center take the Pleasant Valley Road about a mile north, then take the Mountain Road to its end at the state park (parking fee). From the park follow the old CCC road for a mile to a sharp right turn, where the trail bears left off the road.

Along Mount Mansfields Summit Ridge

Red Tape

The State of Vermont closes trails on Mt. Mansfield from Mid-April to Memorial Day to protect the fragile vegetation, and also to protect the trails themselves from erosion. The Green Mountain Club discourages hiking on any trails at high elevation during that season.

There are no fees (unless you use the toll road or gondola) and no permit is required.

When To Climb

Rime Ice and Sunset Ridge

The normal hiking season in the Vermont extends roughly from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Winter conditions above treeline are harsh, but for those with the required knowledge and experience a winter ascent of Mount Mansfield can be a wonderful experience.

The upper 1.5 miles of the Mountain Road to Underhill State park is not plowed in winter. Also plowing on VT 108 stops about 0.3 miles south of the Long Trail.

Camping

Given the short distances most people climb Mount mansfield in a day. There is lodging at the Green Mountain Club's Taft Lodge. A reader has added: "The "lodge rate" is $6 per person. Bring your own stove and T.P. as fires are forbidden and the outhouse was bare. Also, water is available from an untested source - recommend bringing a filter."

Mountain Conditions

While planning a trip check the weather forecast.

In winter trip reports posted on the Views from the Top (VFTT) Vermont Trail Conditions forum should be consulted before a trip. If you find nothing you can post a query at any of the following (they share viewers, it is considered poor form to post to more than one):

AMC Bulletin Boards
NE Q&A Newsgroup of VFTT.

Maps

In addition to the map that comes with the Long Trail Guide you may want the North Vermont Hiking Trails map produced by Map Adventures.

External Links

4000 footer list for Maine and Vermont
Hiking the Vermont 4000 Footers
Notes on the routes, with distances and elevation gains.
Underhill State Park website
Official website for the Underhill State Park.

Images



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