This is a 2.3 mile hike that leads to an astounding view of Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New York. The hike itself is moderately difficult--and proper hydration is no joke. The 2 and a half hour forest walk is beautiful, but after awhile it gets a little repetitive. And, the trip down requires your tired body and wondering mind to maintain focus. But, whatever the beatific and strenuous hike itself lacks in pizazz, is overcome by the jaw dropping panoramic mountain-top vistas. If you go, you will be glad you did, but bring water and sunscreen, and have your favorite masseuse on call.
Great mountain to hike. Perfect in terms of duration, difficulty and view.Took the most popular Monroe Trail up. Broke off and took Alpine South bast the crash bomber and up the south side of the peak. This is a very different hike then straight up Monroe to Long Trail. Go up one, and down the other for both experiences. Wind is crazy at the top.. very exhilarating and breathtaking view. Almost 5 hours return trip with a couple of breaks along the way and at the top. Going down is just as difficult as up.
Path is well indicated and maintained. Must be in shape to hike up and down the rocky paths, however well worth it for the stunning views.
Plan on this being a full day, arrive early to avoid crowds and be sure to pack layers, the temps and weather change quickly! Well worth the time and effort to hike, the views at the top are stunning ... Bring a good camera and binoculars for the summit.
My daughter and I (ages 52 and23) did this challenging (for us newbies to hiking) loop day hike on a warm September weekday. We started at the Monroe trailhead, hiking up to Dean through Wind Gap, turning north on the Long Trail to the summit. We continued off the summit north to the clearing the picked up Monroe for the hike down. We did a short side trip on Alpine but decided not to go to the end, rather save it for another day. It was about three hours to the top with a couple breaks and photos, 50 minutes or so enjoying the summit and about two and a half hours down allowing for the side trip on Alpine and a slow descent for lots of photos. There were about 10 people, some of whom had leashed dogs, at the summit including a GMC staff person who was friendly and a wealth of information. We basically had the trails to ourselves most of the time, and they are very well marked. The most challenging section was the Long Trail approaching the summit as it was as expected, steep and long. The scramble above the treeline was fairly easy but we climbed on a dry day and didn't have to negotiate wet rock. The easiest way would be up and down Monroe. We loved the hike: the route we took was scenic and would be especially lovely during the height of the foliage season; there were few bugs; it was soooo quiet-we really could just enjoy the stillness; and for us it was a great workout. Definitely wear solid footwear and bring layers; we went from two shirts to a just a wicking t-shirt for the climb, then added a layer at the summit to keep from getting chilled in the sweaty Ts. Halfway down we again ditched the top layer to stay cool. Remember to sign in and out at the trailhead.
It took us a while to get to the trailhead because we couldn't find the road to get across the Winooski River from Waterbury. Very easy to miss but it's Winooski Street from Main Street. Can't miss it (though apparently we did!) because you have to cross a green metal bridge. Anyhow, it was a pretty moderately difficult hike. Very rocky and steep in some areas. I was impressed with all the folks we met along the way who brought kids with them! The summit is stunning. There was a guide at the top overseeing the summit, to ensure we leashed our dog and to not trampled the sensitive vegetation. Can get pretty cold on top with the wind. We sat and had lunch at the summit. Took us about 5 hours roundtrip.
We parked off the dirt road to head up the Monroe Trail. Around 3+ miles is the distance up - good trail, mostly under cover of woods. You will cut left on the Long Trail for the final ascent to the views of the surrounding Green Mountains. Instead of doing an about face and heading back down the Monroe Trail, continue on the Long Trail after your time at the summit... if you then make a left onto the Alpine Trail, you will find plane wreckage from a B-24 bomber that crashed on a training run in 1944 prepping their airmen for World War II - 9 died on impact. Fascinating history for a walk in the woods. The trail keeps you mentally engaged at all times - solid workout!
Great hike!! Took us 6 hours with a 6 year old and two twelve year olds- and well worth it. We went up Long Trail and down Burrows. Lots of fun. Well marked everywhere. Trails in great condition. We started early-ish (7:30am) in July. No bugs.NB watch out for road closures on the approach. Wasted time driving around these.
Great for fall, winter and summer hiking. Several routes to choose from. Wonderful views and beautiful rocky summit. Easy day hike. Start early to avoid crowded summit during peak hiking times.
One of our favorites. A bit busy on the weekends. Try it during the week, or in the winter for less human traffic.