Lost Pond Shelter

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations or advance fees required. Winter access dependent on trail and weather conditions.

About

Lost Pond Shelter is a primitive backcountry overnight shelter situated on both the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Long Trail within the Big Branch Wilderness of Green Mountain National Forest. Located in the Robert T. Stafford White Rocks National Recreation Area, this shelter serves as a stopping point for long-distance hikers and backpackers exploring Vermont's rugged mountain terrain. The shelter is accessible via a 3-mile hike south on the Appalachian Trail from Forest Road 10 in Mount Tabor. As a backcountry shelter maintained by the Green Mountain Club, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. The shelter features a composting toilet and access to water from nearby sources, though all water must be treated or filtered before use. Unlike some high-use fee sites along the Long Trail system, Lost Pond Shelter does not require a camping fee. This is a primitive wilderness setting suitable for experienced backpackers prepared for backcountry conditions. The shelter provides basic protection from the elements but lacks amenities like electricity, running water, or developed facilities. Winter access may be challenging due to snow conditions on the access trail.

Directions

Hike the Appalachian Trail south from Forest Road 10 in Mount Tabor for approximately 3 miles.

Nearby Campgrounds