Big Branch Shelter

Open — Open year-round, first-come first-served. No advance reservations or fees required.

About

Big Branch Shelter is a backcountry overnight shelter located on the Appalachian Trail and the coincident Long Trail in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, approximately 1 mile south of Forest Road 10 in Mount Tabor. The shelter sits at an elevation of around 1,460 feet and is positioned just yards from the Big Branch River, which features numerous swimming holes popular with hikers during warmer months. The shelter is relatively small, comfortably sleeping up to six people, and is situated in a scenic setting directly facing the river. Water is available from Big Branch but must be treated or filtered before use. A composting toilet is located on-site. The shelter operates year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations required and no fees for overnight stays. Access to the shelter requires hiking the Appalachian Trail, making it a popular stop for both section hikers and thru-hikers traveling through Vermont. The location can experience heavy use during weekends due to its proximity to road access. As a Green Mountain Club maintained facility, the shelter represents the traditional backcountry experience characteristic of Vermont's long-distance hiking trails.

Directions

Hike the Appalachian Trail south for 1 mile from Forest Road 10 in Mount Tabor.

Nearby Campgrounds