Cooley Glen Shelter

About

Cooley Glen Shelter is a classic backcountry shelter situated on the Long Trail in Vermont's Breadloaf Wilderness, part of the Green Mountain National Forest. The shelter sits on the western flank of Mount Cleveland, approximately 3.4 miles from the Cooley Glen-Emily Proctor Trailhead. As a federally designated wilderness area, no motorized vehicles or mechanized equipment are permitted, making this a hike-in-only destination. The shelter underwent significant renovations in 2021, including foundation repairs, roof replacement, and fresh staining. It features a typical Adirondack-style three-sided design that can accommodate 6-10 hikers on a first-come, first-served basis. A composting privy serves the site. Water is available from nearby sources but must be filtered or treated before drinking. Cooley Glen Shelter serves as a waypoint on a popular 13-mile loop combining the Cooley Glen Trail, Long Trail, and Emily Proctor Trail, crossing over Mount Roosevelt and Mount Wilson with elevation changes up to 2,085 feet. Leave No Trace principles are required, including packing out all trash and minimizing campfire impacts.

Directions

From Middlebury, travel south on Route 7 to Route 125. Head east on Route 125 for 6.6 miles and turn left onto Forest Road 59. Travel 4.7 miles to Forest Road 54 and turn right. Continue 4.1 miles and turn right onto Forest Road 201, which dead-ends at the trailhead parking in 0.4 miles. From there, hike 3.4 miles on the Cooley Glen Trail to the shelter.