Kid Gore Shelter

About

Kid Gore Shelter is a three-sided log lean-to located along the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail in the Green Mountain National Forest near Glastenbury, Vermont. At 2,749 feet elevation, the shelter sits on a short loop trail approximately 5.2 miles south of the Arlington-West Wardsboro Road crossing and roughly 15 miles north of Route 9 in Bennington. The spacious 20x12-foot structure was built in 1971 by Connecticut Section volunteers and Camp Najerog alumni, named in honor of Harold M. "Kid" Gore, the beloved former owner of Camp Najerog who passed away in 1969. The shelter accommodates up to 15 hikers with double-deck bunks on each end and includes a large communal table seating 8-10 people. A composting privy is available near the shelter. Water can be obtained from a spring located about 10 yards north, though it is unreliable during dry seasons and must be filtered or treated before drinking. As part of the Long Trail system managed by the Green Mountain Club, the shelter operates first-come, first-served with no reservations and no fees. Hikers are requested to stay no more than two consecutive nights. The shelter faces east, providing spectacular sunrise views and illuminating moonlight. Fires are permitted on Green Mountain National Forest land following Leave No Trace principles, using only dead or downed wood. All trash must be packed out.

Directions

Hike the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail north from Route 9 in Bennington for approximately 15 miles. Alternatively, access via the Arlington-West Wardsboro Road, hiking south 5.2 miles on the AT/LT. The shelter is located on a short loop trail off the main trail.