Goddard Shelter

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. The trail is not maintained for winter use. No fees required.

About

Goddard Shelter is a backcountry hiking shelter located on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and coincident Long Trail in the Glastenbury Wilderness of Green Mountain National Forest. Maintained by the Green Mountain Club, this is one of the newer shelters on the Long Trail system, featuring log construction with an open front design. The shelter sits just south of Glastenbury Mountain's summit at a moderate elevation where temperatures remain noticeably cooler than nearby towns. This hike-in shelter operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. Water is available from a nearby spring approximately 150 feet south on the Long Trail, though hikers must treat or filter it before use. A composting toilet is maintained on site. The shelter serves as a popular overnight stop for both Appalachian Trail thru-hikers and Long Trail section hikers, typically spaced between other shelters in the southern Vermont AT corridor. Access requires a strenuous 10-mile hike north from Route 9 in Bennington, making this a true backcountry experience. The trail is not maintained for winter use, though winter access is possible for experienced hikers prepared for challenging conditions. Bear activity has been reported in the area, and proper food storage practices are essential.

Directions

Hike the Appalachian Trail north from Route 9 in Bennington approximately 10 miles to the shelter.

Nearby Campgrounds