Plot Road to Roundtop Shelter

The trail begins near the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail and involves crossings over Route 15. Look for designated parking areas close to these points to access the trailhead.

The terrain is diverse, featuring hills, islands, and a bridge over the Lamoille River. You'll navigate areas with mossy boulders, follow a stream for a significant portion, and encounter climbs over Prospect Rock and Roundtop Mountain. Be prepared for a metal ladder and river crossings. Some sections can be muddy, especially during wet seasons.

Hikers are treated to picturesque views. Roundtop Shelter offers an "awesome western view." From Prospect Rock, you'll find beautiful, pastoral lookouts over the Lamoille River Valley. Ample views can also be seen through the trees, particularly when leaves are not fully grown. The trail itself features fascinating rocks covered in moss and ferns.

This section of the Long Trail involves significant elevation gain, with a 3-mile stretch to the shelter ascending approximately 1,300 feet. While some parts are an "easy downhill," other sections are described as strenuous, particularly parallel to a cliff face. It's characterized by steady gain, so hikers should have a moderate level of fitness.

Generally, dogs are permitted on the Long Trail, but they should be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Please practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all waste.

Based on available information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this section of the Long Trail to Roundtop Shelter.

For the best views through the trees and to avoid the muddiest conditions, consider hiking in early spring before the leaves fully emerge or in late fall after they've dropped. Summer offers lush greenery but can be muddier in sections. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice.

Key features include Roundtop Shelter itself, offering impressive western views and nearby water access. You'll also pass Prospect Rock with its expansive views of the Lamoille River Valley. Further along the Long Trail after the shelter, you can find Devil's Gulch, a small boulder canyon.

Yes, the route is a segment of the renowned Long Trail, which it follows for 100% of its length.

The sections of the trail that follow a stream are known to be abundant with various animals. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially in these riparian areas.

Yes, Roundtop Shelter provides nearby water access via a red hand pump, making it a convenient overnight stop for hikers.