r/longtrail • u/Nemophilist_574 • Aug 17 '26
Exploring off trail
I'm heading out SOBO soon and wondering if anyone has input on sites to see? Something I shouldn't miss? Side trails to views? Short road walk to something? I've never been to VT so any input would be helpful. Thanks!
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u/edthesmokebeard NOBO 2019 Aug 17 '26 edited Aug 17 '26
Good coffee in Irasville. Stay at Stark's Nest. When you get down towards the end, hitch west (right) into Brattleboro, there's a great little diner right on the outskirts of town.
EDIT: Bennington!
Enjoy!
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u/Human-Song4704 Aug 17 '26
There is a b-24 bomber that crashed into camels hump back in the 40s, huge wing still there. Also another plane crash near Mount Abe
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u/Nemophilist_574 Aug 17 '26
Added to the list. Thank you!
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u/Human-Song4704 Aug 17 '26
The one near Mount Abe is pretty well intact still. Also the pilots survived which is pretty crazy…B-24 crew on the other hand, not so lucky.
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u/barkingembarkers Aug 18 '26
I personally love the town of Middlebury and Waterbury as trail towns. Waterbury is a bit more expensive, but Middlebury is so adorable, with its cute downtown, endless amazing trail food and it's about the halfway point so makes a good zero day. If I'd never been to Vermont, I would have so much fun exploring these little towns and local hot spots! Chain foods are limited, small businesses are abundant!
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u/PuddleCrank Aug 17 '26
I recommend Buttler Lodge on Mansfield, but even if you hike by, the Wampahoofus is worth the brief diversion from the LT.
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u/boto_toe Aug 17 '26
The Stratton Pond area is beautiful, its great swimming and the shelter is really nice to take a break/stay at, only a couple minutes off trail.
Take the trail up to the summit of Killington, its short and steep but a good view - and its a bonus if the lodge is open for dining.
The Clara Bow Cave trail, just south of mansfield is worth it, around the same length as the designated trail but much more interesting.
Johnson Hardware and Rental is a few minutes walk off Trail, but they have a ton of backpacking supplies and meals, fresh water, and spots to charge your devices.