Clarendon Shelter

About

Clarendon Shelter sits along the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail corridor in Rutland County, Vermont at an elevation of approximately 1,190 feet. This is the third structure to bear the Clarendon name, with the original Clarendon Camp built in 1921, followed by Clarendon Lodge in 1952, and the current shelter constructed in 1971. The Green Mountain Club's Killington Section maintains this shelter as part of the extensive overnight accommodation system along the Long Trail. The shelter accommodates up to 10 hikers and features a nearby meadow suitable for tent camping when the shelter is full. Typical of Long Trail shelters, it has a privy and a nearby water source, though water quality cannot be guaranteed and should be treated before drinking. The site operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees and a maximum two-night consecutive stay. Access is via the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail from the VT Route 103 trailhead, located 2.4 miles east of the intersection with US 7 north of Clarendon. From the trailhead at Clarendon Gorge, hikers cross the Mill River suspension bridge and ascend a steep, rocky climb to reach the shelter.

Directions

From the intersection of US 7 and VT Route 103 north of Clarendon, drive east on VT 103 for 2.4 miles to the Appalachian/Long Trail parking lot on the left, just after crossing the railroad tracks. The shelter is reached via the AT/LT heading north from Clarendon Gorge.