Spruce Peak Shelter

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations or fees required. Shelters fill quickly during peak hiking season, so backup shelter is essential.

About

Spruce Peak Shelter is a distinctive backcountry shelter situated on both the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Long Trail in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. This shelter replaced the former Bromley Camp and stands out as one of the few remaining Long Trail shelters equipped with a wood stove. Built like a cabin rather than the typical three-sided lean-to, it features a sliding door, four large sleeping bunks, and an interior table, accommodating up to 16 hikers. The shelter is located approximately 0.4 miles south of Spruce Peak at an elevation of about 2,180 feet. Accessed by hiking south on the Appalachian Trail from the Route 11/30 trailhead, the shelter serves as a popular overnight stop for long-distance hikers. A composting toilet is located nearby, and water is available from nearby sources but must be treated or filtered before use. Managed in partnership between the U.S. Forest Service and the Green Mountain Club, the shelter operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees or advance reservations. Hikers should be prepared with backup shelter options, especially during peak hiking season when the shelter is typically full. The site follows Leave No Trace principles, and visitors must pack out all trash.

Directions

Hike south on the Appalachian Trail from the Route 11/30 trailhead. From Route 7 in Manchester, take Route 11/30 east for approximately 5 miles to the trailhead parking area. The shelter is located approximately 0.4 miles south of Spruce Peak.

Nearby Campgrounds