Minerva Hinchey Shelter

About

Minerva Hinchey Shelter is a classic three-sided backcountry lean-to situated along the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail corridor in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. Originally built in 1969 by Louis "Sandy" Stare and Killington Section volunteers as Sunnyside Camp, it was renamed in 1979 to honor Minerva Hinchey, a 22-year member of the Killington Section who served as Business Director for Long Trail News and Recording Secretary for the Green Mountain Club from 1955 to 1977. The shelter sits approximately 200 feet off the main trail on a grassy wood road and can accommodate up to 8 hikers on wooden bunks. A privy is located nearby, and a reliable spring provides water, though all backcountry water sources should be treated before drinking. The site includes a permanent fireplace for cooking, and small wood fires are permitted on Green Mountain National Forest land following Leave No Trace principles. Access is hike-in only via the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail. From VT Route 140, the shelter is 3.6 miles north on the trail; from VT Route 103, it is 2.7 miles south. The shelter operates year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Stays are limited to two consecutive nights, and hikers should carry a tent as shelters fill quickly during peak season.

Directions

From VT Route 140, hike 3.6 miles north on the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail. Alternatively, from VT Route 103, hike 2.7 miles south on the same trail.