NEWS

Quarterly of the Green Mountain Club SUMMER 2017

A CENTURY OF Green Mountain Club PUBLISHING LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 1 The mission of the Green Mountain Club is to make the Vermont mountains play a larger­ part in the life of the people­ by ­protecting and maintaining the Long Trail System and fostering, through education,­ the stewardship of Vermont’s hiking trails and mountains.

Quarterly of the Green Mountain Club

Michael DeBonis, Executive Director Jocelyn Hebert, Long Trail News Editor Richard Andrews, Volunteer Copy Editor Southwest side of Camel’s Hump summit Green Mountain Club 4711 Waterbury-Stowe Road Waterbury Center, Vermont 05677 Phone: (802) 244-7037 CONTENTS Fax: (802) 244-5867 Summer 2017, Volume 77, No. 2 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.greenmountainclub.org TheLong Trail News is published by The Green Mountain Club, Inc., a nonprofit organization founded FEATURES in 1910. In a 1971 Joint Resolution, the Vermont Legislature designated the Green Mountain Club the “founder, sponsor, defender and protector of the Long 5 / 1917–2017: A Century of Trail System...” Green Mountain Club Publishing Contributions of manuscripts, photos, illustrations, and news are welcome from members and nonmembers. By Jocelyn Hebert and Ben Rose The opinions expressed byLTN contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of GMC. GMC reserves the right to refuse advertising that is not in 10 / Is This a Hiking Club? keeping with the goals of the organization. By Vic Henningsen TheLong Trail News (USPS 318-840) is published quarterly by The Green Mountain Club, Inc., 4711 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury Center, VT 05677. 14 / End-To-Ender List Periodicals postage paid at Waterbury Center, VT and additional offices. Subscription is a benefit for GMC members. Approximately $5 of each member’s dues is 16 / VHCB AmeriCorps: used to publish the Long Trail News. A Look Back at GMC’s Recent Members POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Long Trail News, 4711 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury Center, VT 05677. Copyright©2017 The Green Mountain Club, Inc., DEPARTMENTS 4711 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury Center, VT 05677. Permission to reproduce in any form any of 3 / From the President 25 / Board Report the material in this publication without prior written approval of The Green Mountain Club, Inc. is granted 4 / Mountain Views 26 / Sections only to individuals for their own personal hiking ­convenience. 18 / Trail Mix 28/ Outdoor Programs 21 / Field Notes 29/ Events 22 / Stewardship 31 / Journey’s End 24 / Volunteers

Cover photo: Research from A Century of Green Mountain Club Publishing From the President

ost summers I load my backpack Shelter, located off trail from the LT/AT. extensive work I three or four times for short trips, Extensive loss of vegetation around shel- saw in the south. Musually involving a night or two ters due to widespread tenting and dispersed The efforts of on the Long Trail. Last summer I challenged foot traffic was the most visible impact of our volunteers myself to a ten-day hike on the Long Trail/ overcrowding. The shelters themselves were are perhaps Appalachian Trail from Massachusetts to generally in great shape, although a few struc- more evident Killington to complete my third section hike, tures are showing their age. Historic Cooper in the north, but and to discover, as I approach eligibility for Lodge has been damaged by use as a winter professional trail Medicare, whether I could hike 100 miles with hangout by skiers from nearby Killington crews have spent little a heavy pack and still have fun. Resort, and its future remains an enigma. On time there. Somehow GMC must find the re- The trip was also a chance to experience the other hand, the post-and-beam shelters sources to bring the condition of the northern some of the special management challenges built for GMC by Erik and Laurel Tobiason trail up to the level of the southern trail. where the LT is also the AT. I had heard of at Glastenbury, Stratton Pond, Bromley, and Throughout the hike I sought feedback overflowing shelters and privies, and wear and Little Rock Pond are gems of style and func- from AT thru-hikers who were by then tear on the tread and at shelter sites, with the tion that should serve backpackers well for completely adapted to trail life. I heard many recent dramatic increase in AT hikers. More many decades. compliments on the quality of the privies, disturbing, I had heard of a growing attitude Despite heavy traffic the treadway is in shelters, and trail. The vast majority of hikers of entitlement among some AT thru-hikers excellent condition. Volunteers keep it well engaged positively with me, and most seemed who saw themselves as deserving precedence brushed and cleared of blowdowns, but its to genuinely appreciate the trail as a gift from over other hikers. I wanted to make my own most striking feature is extensive puncheon the thousands of volunteers who built and assessment of these issues to better understand maintained it over the years. If they had an what GMC can do to address them. attitude of entitlement it wasn’t obvious. The hike was a blast. In a few days I settled The AT hikers were Interactions between northbound AT hik- into a comfortable rhythm. There were mo- really curious about the ers and southbound LT hikers were fascinat- ments when I thought about quitting, but I ing. The AT hikers were really curious about made it to Killington on schedule and little LT, and the LT hikers the LT, and the LT hikers effusively praised the worse for wear. I felt my age most on long the trail. I had heard of AT hikers reaching uphill stretches, where I spent a lot of time effusively praised the trail. Katahdin, and then looping back to hike the standing and counting ferns, but my daily aver- northern LT before returning to their real age of ten miles in eight hours was not too bad and stonework constructed by the Long Trail lives. I now understand why they do. for an old man. The highlight was visiting with Patrol and Volunteer Long Trail Patrol to My wish list for this summer includes the long-time GMC caretakers Hugh and Jeanne harden the tread against tens of thousands of forty-five miles of AT between Killington and Joudry, with other GMC friends on Stratton boots. The extent and quality of that work Norwich, and beginning another LT section Mountain. I encountered more GMC staff is a testament to the skill of our trail crews, hike by revisiting the Monroe Skyline, a sec- and friends along the way, and I felt immersed and the Green Mountain National Forest’s tion that I’ve loved since first hiking it in 1966. in the Long Trail hiking community. commitment to the trail in paying much of the I hope that each of you find time to hike your I can report that overcrowding is real. I cost of those crews. favorite trails to enjoy our beautiful Vermont usually shared a shelter with five or six other During a three-day trip on the LT north of summer. hikers, with about the same number nearby Belvidere Mountain, I couldn’t help noticing — John Page, President in tents. My only night alone was at Old Job a lack of tread hardening compared to the

Treadway along Styles Peak-Peru Peak ridgeline LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 3 Mountain Views

Tree Plantation on Camel’s Hump Berlin Mall End-to-Ender Planted for Monroe To everyone involved with the Walk the Long The Long Trail News is a valuable source of Trail at the Berlin Mall, GMC Officers information, and I have enjoyed each issue for I appreciate everything that your organiza- John Page, President my many years as a GMC member. While read- tion did to create and maintain this project. It Tom Candon, Vice President Stephen Klein, Treasurer ing the latest issue, I couldn’t help but notice provided me with an opportunity to meet new Lee Allen, Secretary what I think are errors in context with the people and provided a winter challenge and GMC Directors article “From Stump to Shelter.” goal to achieve. As a mall walker since 2012, I Lars Botzojorns, General To begin, perhaps a bit of background info enjoyed the lovely photos of the Long Trail— Michelle Connor, Burlington Hope Crifo, General would help. I am a recent retiree after thirty- just the right size to attract lots of attention Marge Fish, Manchester seven years with Vermont Department of Forest, and to also allow natural light to continue Russ Ford, Northern Frontier James Fritz, Connecticut Parks and Recreation (FPR). One of my top pri- to enter the mall. I also appreciate receiving Jean Haigh, Northeast Kingdom orities was management of Camel’s Hump State the guide to walking trails in Vermont. It will Allison Henry, Killington Peter Hope, Ottauquechee Park. I worked with GMC Director of Trail definitely come in handy when my children and Paul Houchens, General Programs Dave Hardy quite often. Just prior to grandchildren visit during summer. Anne Janeway, General Wayne Krevetski, General my retirement I was working on the long-range --Donna Legare (Strawbear) Sheri Larsen, General management plan for the Camel’s Hump Man- Ron Lucier, Sterling Doug McKain, Bread Loaf agement Unit. During that time I researched the Correction Ed O’Leary, General history of the place. John Oliva, Worcester In the spring edition we published an article in Ira Sollace, General I am very familiar with the softwood tree Section News titled: “Ottauquechee Section Martha Stitelman, Bennington plantation at the trailhead for the Monroe Dann Van Der Vliet, General Member Larry Litten: Changing the Word on Howard VanBenthuysen, General Trail, and helped thin it at least four times. the Trail,” that suggested that thru-hikers could Matt Wels, Brattleboro Much of the harvested material went for Mike Wetherell, Montpelier sleep at the community center in Hanover, New John Zaber, General GMC structure rehabilitation. For many years Hampshire. In fact, sleeping accommodations Vacant, Laraway I believed, as stated in the article, that the at the center are only available on an emergency GMC Staff Directory trees were planted by Professor Will Monroe. basis, such as when Tropical Storm Irene ravaged Main Telephone: (802) 244-7037 One of the private contractors I worked with Vermont and hiking became unsafe. Jason Buss, Business Manager is a relative of the Callahans. His cousin Jim E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8214 Callahan is a descendant of the Callahans from Long Trail News welcomes your comments. Ilana Copel, Field Supervisor whom Will Monroe acquired Couching Lion ­Letters received may be edited for length and Email: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8218 Farm. According to Jim, the tree plantation clarity. GMC reserves the right to decline to publish those considered ­inappropriate. Lenny Crisostomo, Database Manager was planted by the Callahans for Monroe. E-mail: [email protected] Letters may not be published. Phone: (802) 241-8325 One of the highlights of my career with Send to: Jocelyn Hebert, Lorne Currier, Group Outreach and Field Coordinator FPR was working with GMC on many trail [email protected] or Email: [email protected] projects. I wish GMC continued success on Phone: (802) 241-8327 Letters to the Editor, Michael DeBonis, Executive Director providing a valuable service to the recreating GMC, 4711 Waterbury-Stowe Road, E-mail: [email protected] public. Waterbury Center, VT 05677 Phone: (802) 241-8212 —Gary Sawyer Alicia DiCocco, Director of Development E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8322 Dave Hardy, Director of Trail Programs E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8320 Jocelyn Hebert, Long Trail News Editor E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8215 Mollie Flanigan, Land Stewardship Coordinator E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8217 Matt Krebs, Operations/Publications Coordinator E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8321 Kristin McLane, Membership and Communications Coordinator Email: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8324 Amy Potter, Visitor Center Manager E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8210 Robert Rives, Education and Volunteer Coordinator Email: [email protected] Phone: (802) 241-8329

Follow Us: Berlin Mall Window Display 1910 1911 1917-2017 A CENTURY OF Green Mountain Club Publishing he Green Mountain Club celebrates Their commentaries appeared in maga- The Vermonter 100 years of publishing with the zines and newspapers years before the club 1911 release of the 28th edition of the was well-enough established to produce its T “The specific work to be car- Long Trail Guide, first printed in 1917. own literature. The Vermonter, published by ried out is to make the mountains Today the club produces and distributes 18 Charles R. Cummings and sold for 10 cents accessible by means of trails books, maps, and posters that promote and a copy, covered topics statewide, and helped well marked, and kept in repair, guide exploration of the Green Mountains the club disseminate information early on. the building of camps or shel- and their trails. In its April 1910 edition, it announced the ter houses where they can be of service, the issuing of maps and As Executive Director Mike DeBonis said, club’s formation and objective: “to make the books of information of the work “GMC’s hiking history and publishing history Vermont Mountains play a larger part in the done on the mountains, the dis- are as inseparable as an all-you-can-eat buffet life of the people.” tribution of this literature at and a thru-hiker.” To appreciate why the club home and outside of the state, has such an extensive hiker library, a short The Vermonter the gathering of a large member- ship to make the appeal of the history lesson about how GMC came to be is 1910 club stronger, and lastly the in order. “We begin, with this issue, a inevitable exploitation of the On March 11, 1910, more than twenty series of articles, calculated State through its mountains.” to tell the world, or a tiny hiking enthusiasts—lawyers, a professor, jour- The word “exploitation” may suggest destruc- nalists, a judge, and other gentlemen leaders of part of it, about Vermont’s at- tractive mountains. It will tion to us, but at the time its connotation was the time—merged their passion for the “out- contain a wealth of revelation merely that publicizing Vermont’s mountains of-doors” as they gathered to officially form to many of us right at home... could only benefit a poor state. The club and the Green Mountain Club. They were led by You can do your part in helping state government were determined to sell the advertise Vermont by sending The school master and Long Trail visionary James wilderness experience and hiking in the Green P. Taylor, who came to be known in GMC lore Vermonter regularly to friends in other states.” Mountains to lure people near and far. as “the father of the Long Trail.” In his article, Paris describes the The May 1911,Vermonter , the “Green As hikers and trail workers, we can heartily responsibility of the club’s sections— Mountain Club Number,” displayed a agree that clearing a footpath over the forested established throughout the state, each mountain range on the cover with text Green Mountain Range that grew to today’s to assume the development of its near- dressed in vivid red. The first 22 pages, 272 miles was not only a great idea, but est mountain; early sections were named written by GMC Secretary Louis J. Paris, ambitious. To be successful, this small band after the prominent mountain in their M.D., communicate the club’s “purposes of outdoorsmen needed help. The writers region. Paris also commented on the club’s and projects.” Black and white photo- and storytellers among them sat at typewrit- forthcoming literature: “All guidebooks graphs of mountains throughout the state, ers—keys clacking, carriage return bells ding- and published matter shall be of uniform not just along today’s Long Trail, fill half ing—and composed captivating articles about size so that accumulated work of the vari- of the 22 pages. walking in the Vermont wilderness to promote ous sections can be bound into one volume the idea. which in time will make the official guide

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 5

1915 1917 1920 1922 book of the Green Mountains.” The first Guide Book of the Long Trail 1915—Massachusetts line to comprehensive guide book, however, 1917 Prospect Rock, would not be printed for another six years. 1916-1920—Reclaiming and relocat- “This, our first Guide Book and In the meantime, news outlets contin- ing the Long Trail from Camel’s Year Book is published in the Hump to Killington Peak, ued to broadcast hiking information and hope that our present 700 mem- 1917-1920—Killington Peak to trail updates. Paris hiked from Johnson to bers may come to know and use Prospect Rock. Camel’s Hump, later describing life on the our trails more frequently and trail for the Burlington Free Press. His story through their influence bring The season of 1920 will open others into the joy of the out- with the last link completed, was republished in 1915 by Hotel Vermont of-doors. One thousand Green and the Long Trail open from & Van Ness House of Burlington, where Mountain Club members are Massachusetts to Johnson, the club had met for its formation. The 16- desired by December 1917. They Vermont, and four-fifths of the page booklet, “Along This Skyline over The will be enrolled if you but do entire project finished.” your ‘bit.’” Long Trail,” had a simple line drawing of GMC’s second major publication hit the the mountain range from Smugglers’ Notch The club produced the second edition in press in December 1922. A 4-page news- to Camel’s Hump on the front cover; the 1920. The design changed dramatically letter titled: The Green Mountain News, back cover advertised the hotel, and ap- from the spare, elongated pamphlet-like it was designed to “constitute a record of pealed to guests “interested in walking and booklet to a traditional bound book with the activities of the Club down to date mountain climbing.” artwork adorning the cover. A crinkly of publication.” Early on, the newsletter fold-out map of the Long Trail from was essential to communication among Along This Skyline over Massachusetts to Johnson, penned by the sections. The first edition included THE LONG TRAIL then GMC President Charles P. Cooper, headlines such as: Appalachian Party on 1915 is fixed in the front. The club’s original the Trail; A New Section; Jay Peak Day; “Haze veiled the distance, and, logo made an appearance, followed by the Extension of the Long Trail to Canada; to the north, the view ended at preface with an attempt to gently shame Publicity; Patrol Day; Camel’s Hump and the dome of Belvidere Mountain. Vermonters for not recognizing the value Monroe Lodge; Work on the Trail; and The Long Trail will reach of the mountains: “This neglect lies with Belvidere Mountain this sea- Lake Pleiad Lodge. son as the Johnson Section is the people of the State who failed to make to cut the trail to Eden Pond, the mountains accessible or to give them The Green Mountain News where a trail cut by the boy publicity; up to ten years ago only half a 1922 scouts of Craftsbury leads to dozen of the principal peaks had trails to the summit of Belvidere.” “A new section of the G.M.C. their summits.” The club’s trail cutting suc- was organized in October at By 1917 there was enough finished trail, cesses were then listed. Montpelier. It will be known as and interest in hiking it, to justify the the Mt. Hunger section. This sec- club’s intention to produce an official The Long Trail Guide Book tion plans to build a trail from guidebook. The first edition, a stapled 1920 Montpelier over the Middlesex Range, White Rocks, Mt. Hunger 34-page booklet, served several purposes: “The progress in building The and Worcester Mountain to a hiking guide with trail descriptions and Long Trail is shown in the fol- Elmore mountain. It will also hand drawn maps, an informational “year lowing table: co-operate in the extension of the Long Trail to Canada.” book” listing officers and members, and a 1911—Mt. Mansfield to Camel’s medium to spread the word that many of Hump, A name change from The Green Mountain Vermont’s mountains were now accessible. 1912—Mt. Mansfield to Johnson, News to The Long Trail News in 1925 was This launched the Green Mountain 1913—Camel’s Hump to Killington explained in the December edition: Club’s 100-year publishing career. Peak,

6 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB

1925 1929 1938

The Long Trail News Guide used images for the first time in the will keep fairly well but makes tenth edition in1935. one thirsty. Ham will keep only 1925 moderately and causes thirst. “The name “Green Mountain Club- The Long Trail News Bacon will keep and is appetiz- house” having been officially ing, though some trampers rely on changed to “Long Trail Lodge”, it 1928 it for too many meals in succes- sion.” has seemed best to follow suit and “We cannot emphasize too strongly adopt a corresponding title for the importance of this contest. The impact and aftermath of World War this paper. The reason is the same The Secretary’s office has in both cases: the new name is II left little time and resources to hike or innumerable calls for trail maintain the Long Trail. GMC publica- more distinctive. “Green Mountain” information and pictures. Written is in common use in Vermont as a material can of course be provided tions were less frequent through the 1940s part of the title of institutions on comparatively short notice, and 1950s. And, the size of the Long Trail of various kinds.” but unless it is well illustrated News, although still produced quarterly, We are left to wonder why the club’s name its effectiveness is tremendously decreased to a four-by-six-inch booklet. did not also change to The Long Trail Club. diminished. We all know how people A hiking boom developed in the late nowadays glance thru periodicals Nearly a century later many people are and advertising material gener- 1960s, the result of better roads, more familiar with the Long Trail but unfamiliar ally, stopping only when a picture automobile ownership, lightweight hiking with the Green Mountain Club, so they attracts their eye...In other equipment using materials like nylon and do not realize that the club maintains and words, to attract the public, we aluminum alloys perfected during the protects the Long Trail. must show them pictures.” war, and the wave of baby boomers reach- As club spokespersons continued to Apparently attention spans suffered long ing college age and seeking every kind of inform the public about the peaks and the before online social media! On the upside, 95 independence. ever-changing trail, Long Trail News editors years later, members are still reading (or at least This caused the club’s leaders to look were frequently compelled to correct mis- “glancing thru”) today’s now 32-page, full color more closely at the noticeably overrun and information printed by other sources. They magazine. mistreated trail. Its poor condition motivated were not shy about calling out blunders like To help hikers plan, pack, and prepare them to develop and implement stricter this one titled, “A Colossal Error”: meals on the trail, Professor Walter C. O’Kane standards to ensure its care. They concentrated “The most remarkable printed authored a booklet titled Food and Cooking on shelter and trail maintenance, drainage and error that we have run across on The Long Trail in 1938. Gone are the days erosion control, expansion of the caretaker and lately is in the Literary when hikers carried butter and flour in their ranger-naturalist programs, and producing Digest for June 2...the writer says in part: ‘...there are 500 rucksacks or woven pack baskets, and stopped educational material about proper backcountry summits exceeding 4,400 feet. at farms along the route for fresh eggs and—if hiking and camping practices. Over this mighty axis follows lucky—an occasional home-cooked meal, an By the 1970s, hiking opportunities off the the foot-path of the wilder- earlier version of today’s trail magic. Long Trail were numerous. The club released ness, The Long Trail...’” its next mainstay publication in 1978: The As we know, Vermont has no summits Food and Cooking on The Long Trail Day Hiker’s Guide to Vermont. According to exceeding 4,400 feet, let alone 500. The 1938 the Long Trail News, this book was intended highest point in the state, measuring 4,395 Walter C. O’Kane for “non-hikers, aspiring beginners, those un- feet is—you guessed it—Mount Mansfield. “Canned meat in the form of so- able or disinclined to follow the lengthier and As printing techniques improved, Green called deviled ham or similar more rugged trails.” In an apparent attempt Mountain Club publications became more material, may be all right for to encourage hikers to get off the beaten path, vivid. The earliest photographs appeared in an occasional picnic sandwich, the newsletter continued: “Veteran hikers the 1929 Long Trail News after the club’s but is not prized by most tramp- looking for new places to explore should be ers as trail food. Dried beef first photo contest in 1928. TheLong Trail pleasantly surprised at the number, richness

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 7 1978 1993 2004 2005 2005 2007 and variety of Vermont’s ‘other’ trails.” The Appalachian Trail Conference publication, was is a valuable resource to help hikers navigate Day Hiker’s Guide is one of GMC’s best- introduced in 1990. The preface states: “The their way to Canada. selling books today. End-to-Ender’s Guide first appeared as an ap- The public’s appetite for hiking litera- pendix to the ATC’s 1989 Philosopher’s Guide ture remained robust heading into the 21st Day Hiker’s Guide to Vermont (now called TheThru-Hiker’s Handbook).” Century. Now that excellent trail information 1978, First Edition Not meant to replace the Long Trail Guide, had been published, GMC’s active volunteer Editor: George Pearlstein but to assist with logistics, the early guides publications committee turned its attention cover weather, overnight sites, drinking water, to ecology and trail history. From 2003 to Historical Highlights. “In recent years, however, the number of days needed to complete the trail, 2013 they produced first edition books on Club has recognized the ironic food drops, transportation, parking, wildlife, various topics: summit fire towers in the state; fact that the very popularity of and when to go. a snowshoe guide, place names on the trail; the Trail and steadily increas- Later editions, written and edited by a Long Trail nature guide; an account of a ing hiker traffic pose more of GMC staff and volunteers, expanded to in- 1931 hiking adventure; a children’s Long Trail a threat than the pressures of incompatible or undesirable clude features like charts with shelter-to-shelter activity coloring book; a walker’s guide; an land use.” distances and times, and simple street maps of illustrated coffee-table history book recapping towns along the trail. The format of the 19th and celebrating GMC’s first 100 years, and a With the rising popularity of the Long Trail edition, released in 2003, decreased in dimen- winter hiking guide. came increased ambition to hike its entire sion to mirror the size of the Long Trail Guide Today the committee and staff work hard length. The archives record Long Trail News and make it easier to pack. Updated every two to keep the club’s print publications fresh and Irving Appleby’s 1926 speed record attempt, years, the 21st edition was released in May. current while addressing changes in technol- the Three Musketeers’ thru-hike in 1927, and ogy and a growing demand for products like two Williams College students thru-hike in Long Trail End-to-Ender’s Guide digital books, maps, and trail apps. 1928. The number of end-to-end hikers has 1993, 4th Edition One of James P. Taylor’s goals when he steadily increased since the club began ac- organized the Green Mountain Club in 1910 knowledging the accomplishment with certifi- GODDARD SHELTER was to “awaken the people of Vermont to the cates in 1943. A 1945 newsletter published the “Lovely place, great views from neglected beauties of their mountains.” Since first complete list of finishers, congratulating dramatic shelter site and fire Taylor’s plea, much has been accomplished: all forty-three. The 100th end-to-ender, Mr. tower above, excellent piped spring. May be a bit exposed in the 272-mile Long Trail and 163 miles of side Harry A. Walton of Dalton, Massachusetts, storms, serious black flies early trails were built, membership grew from 22 was celebrated in the November 1960 edition, in season.” charter members to nearly 10,000, a proud which was also the club’s 50th anniversary. KID GORE SHELTER AND 1,000-strong volunteer force was assembled, In this summer 2017 edition we lift our CAUGHNAWAGNA SHELTER and there is vastly improved accessibility hats to 247 end-to-enders who, this year alone, “Not lovely, but ‘if you want to Vermont’s mountains, with trails to the applied for recognition. Our records tell us to see porcupines, stay at Kid summits of its principal peaks, all inspired that more than 5,000 people have hiked the Gore;’ also lots of mice.” by GMC’s mission and its prolific 100-year length of the Green Mountains since we began publishing history. We are unmistakably awake. tracking, although we know the overall num- Vermont’s Long Trail Map With admiration and gratitude we ber is much, much higher. Vermont’s Long Trail Map, a multi-panel acknowledge all the researchers, writers, As a response to the growing interest waterproof map, was first produced in 2004 editors, cartographers, photographers, artists, in end-to-end hiking, the popular Long by The Wilderness Map Company in coop- designers, printers, and—let’s not forget— , written by Trail End-to-Ender’s Guide eration with GMC. A perfect complement you, the readers, for 100 successful years! Russell Norton (aka “Mr. Natural”) for the to the Long Trail and end-to-ender’s guide —Jocelyn Hebert Green Mountain Club and inspired by an books, it rounds out the LT hiker suite, and Long Trail News Editor (#16)

8 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB 2008 2008 2009 2009 2009 2013 2003-2011 GMC’s Publishing Boom

he release of the twenty-fifth edition of theLong Trail be underestimated was recognition that the advent of computer Guide in 2003 marked the beginning of a remarkable burst mapping had lowered the barriers to market entry, enabling private Tof creativity and productivity for the Green Mountain cartographers to publish independent maps and guidebooks. That Club’s publications program. Steve Larose succeeded Steve threatened GMC’s survival as a viable publisher of products about Gladstone as volunteer chairman of the publications committee, the trail it maintains and protects. and in the next eight years the committee met frequently, churned We recognized that GMC had to compete for shelf space out half a dozen new book titles, launched GMC into the map against other publishers who did not bear the costs and responsibili- business, and consumed a staggering amount of pizza. ties of sustaining the trails shown on their maps. We talked with What set the stage for that publishing burst? some of those publishers, entered partnerships for some products, Consider that the Day Hikers Guide, first edition, had been and asserted GMC’s brand, reclaiming our role as the authoritative published in 1978, thanks largely to the tireless explorations of past publisher of information about our trails. President George Pearlstein and then President Joe Frank. When Today the expectation of instantaneous online access to free I started as executive director in 1998 the club was still selling the information (including cartography) poses a new challenge for a third edition, published in 1987, but copies were running low and new generation of GMC leaders. the next guide would require a major overhaul. The Long Trail has inspired artwork, poetry, humor, music, It took a major team effort, but we finally got theDay Hiker’s friendship, and romance over many generations. It has helped shape Guide, fourth edition, to press in 2002, just in time to start produc- some of Vermont’s most important political decisions about the tion of the Long Trail Guide. Yes, we also needed a new Long Trail future of our landscape. GMC can and should be an articulate Guide. The last one had been edited and produced by Long Trail publisher of the Long Trail’s story. We should always be a publisher, News Editor Sylvia Plumb, Director of Trail Programs Dave Hardy, because the Long Trail is a unique vessel of human self-realization and volunteers John Dunn and Don Hill in 1996. and adventure; club members have created a distinct culture, and Because of trail relocations and changes in shelters, the twenty- the words used to describe, nurture, and sustain that culture matter. fifth edition would need new descriptions, mileages, and maps. Because of the trail, there will be many more good books to be Steve Larose, Dave Hardy, and I collaborated on production; we written and shared. added elevation profiles by Steve Bushey of Map Adventures, and —Ben Rose beautiful watercolor paintings created on a recent end-to-end hike Ben Rose served as GMC by a brilliant young GMC board member named Dave Blumenthal. Executive Director from Dave’s artwork also graced the cover. 1998 to 2011. Since shortly With up-to-date editions of both flagship guidebooks finally after Tropical Storm Irene in on the shelf, the committee brainstormed ideas for new projects. 2011, he has worked at the Individual committee members stepped up to run with them. Space Vermont Division of Emer- does not permit a shout out to all the wonderful volunteers who gency Management, currently worked on those new GMC publications, but they were amazing! as Chief of Recovery and In thinking back on that time, I recall that a major impetus Mitigation. He continues to for new publications was our fervent desire to properly mark and volunteer with GMC on the celebrate the one-hundredth anniversary of the trail. Also not to Development Committee.

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 9 “Is this a hiking club?” The question hung in the late afternoon air as angry field staffers confronted stony-faced GMC members at the annual Intersectional gathering in Is This a August 1971. After a frustrating season dealing with massive overcrowding on the Long Trail, Camel’s Hump and Mansfield caretakers stormed the Intersection- al to alert the club to a growing crisis. Cornering President George Pearlstein, they convinced him Hiking Club? to convene an impromptu meeting of the Board of Directors to hear their concerns. A summer of pent-up anger poured out as staffers described lodges regularly filled to capacity and beyond (as many as sixty a night at Montclair Glen and Taft), hikers ignoring new bans on open fires and ridgeline camping, hikers continuing to toss garbage into dumps caretakers sought to remove, overflowing outhouses, and eroding trails—bearing witness to the fact that Vermont’s highest mountains were in danger of being “loved to death.” Sharpening their concern was a feeling that many GMC members were out of touch: at best oblivious to the growing crisis; at worst, indifferent. As the audience began to grumble that the unscheduled hearing was holding up the evening square dance, Gorham Lodge Caretaker Roger Wilder looked over the crowd and asked, “How many of you spent a night on the trail this year, or last year, or in the last five years?” Addressing the mounting silence, Wilder continued, “Is this a hiking club?” And then the square dance began. In many ways, this confrontation was typical of the time: an older generation challenged by impassioned youth seeking action, and action now. Action was badly needed. As the backpacking explosion of the late 1960s and early 1970s began to take a serious toll on the Long Trail, GMC lead- ers were far removed from their backpacking days, and rarely overnighted on the Trail. The field staff consisted of a small Long Trail Patrol focused on trail and shelter maintenance rather than environ- mental education and protection. The club placed a caretaker at Taft Lodge in 1969, but caretakers didn’t staff the other Mansfield lodges, Gorham and Montclair Glen on Camel’s Hump, and Stratton Pond until 1971. During that summer the extent of overuse and degradation became abundantly clear, as did the limits of the GMC’s response to a rapidly escalat- ing crisis which was focused on discouraging use of the trail and protecting club facilities rather than addressing the larger environmental issues at stake. The caretakers were frustrated by what seemed a short-sighted focus on maintenance when the Herb Ogden Sr. Signs times demanded a more comprehensive policy of

10 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB sustainable management. Their frustration came conversationally, one hiker or group at a time. the GMC’s mission to to a head in the highly-charged confrontation at Caretakers coordinated tactics and coverage at include sustainable trail the August Intersectional. That encounter almost sensitive areas with field staff from the U.S. Forest management. backfired. Service and the Vermont Department of Forests Equally important, Some GMC members were well aware of and Parks. the field staff of the the tsunami beginning to break over the Green This was just in time. Long Trail end-to-end 1970s produced a gen- Mountains. Former president Shirley Strong had completions rose almost 60 percent in the 1970s; eration of GMC leaders spent her term trying to alert the membership overnight stays at popular lodges increased by whose commitment was to the impending emergency. This was a daunt- almost 50 percent; daytime visitors to the Mans- born in the gritty reality George Pearlstein ing challenge, given the conservatism of an aging field ridge nearly doubled. Other areas saw similar of field encounters with membership and a decentralized organizational increases. Sales of the 1971 Long Trail Guide rose all kinds of trail users, in all sorts of circumstances. structure dominated by sections. Still, Strong was to more than 30,000, eclipsing those of all previous Former Executive Directors Larry Van Meter and editions combined. Perhaps most significantly, the Harry Peet; former President Preston Bristow; Pearlstein blessed Boyd’s GMC’s field staff expanded dramatically. From one current President John Page; Secretary Lee Allen, caretaker at Taft Lodge and a four-person Long and board member Howard VanBenthuysen are energetic leadership of Trail Patrol in 1969, seasonal staff grew to fourteen only a few of those who embody the influence of caretakers, two roving caretakers, two caretaker the 1970s on GMC’s leadership. caretakers who adopted supervisors, a field supervisor, and twenty-two Such experienced leadership matters today, members of the Long Trail Patrol in three crews. when the Club faces challenges reminiscent of the a low-key, educational In hindsight, it is easy to see how the field staff 1970s: most notably double digit increases in trail approach to changing and membership misunderstood and talked past use and reduced public funding for trail work. each other in 1971. After all, both were at least Happily, these problems aren’t new. The strategies hiker habits. partly right: the staff in trying to alert members for addressing them were established more than to a crisis; the membership’s and leadership’s forty years ago, when the GMC confirmed that it successful enough that, in an unprecedented move, annoyance with the staff ’s self-righteousness and was indeed a hiking club. GMC leadership retained her as a paid part time ignorance of efforts already underway. Without —Vic Henningsen consultant when her term ended in 1971. Indeed, Pearlstein and Boyd things could easily have spun Strong’s tireless advocacy influenced the expansion out of control. One of the caretakers at the Intersectional event of the caretaker program after 1969. But they didn’t. Unwilling to give up on the in 1971, Vic Henningsen spent five seasons on The zealous caretakers didn’t know this cause, some of the caretakers who participated in Mount Mansfield as both Butler Lodge Care- context. Their angry assault might have set back the Intersectional episode returned for succes- taker and Ranger-Naturalist for the Vermont their cause as well as undercut the progress Strong sive summers on the trail. They were joined by Department of Forests and Parks, and was one and a few allies had already made in bringing the newcomers who were equally committed. It’s of the first members of the field staff to be elected membership to a heightened consciousness of fair to say that by highlighting the urgency of the an at-large director. A teacher and historian the new reality on the Long Trail. The patience problem, the Intersectional incident accelerated living in Thetford Center, he is a regular com- of the GMC board, and the quiet diplomacy of the club’s efforts to address overuse, and broadened mentator on Vermont Public Radio. new President George Pearlstein who was willing to work with Caretaker Supervisor Ken Boyd to highlight the meat of the message rather than its dramatic delivery, avoided that. In November 1971, Boyd noted in the Long Trail News that caretakers had “delivered a report 1 George Pearlstein on recent developments” to Intersectional at- tendees, although witnesses might have termed “...in the late 1970s, I served as GMC President, and my acquaintance it more of a manifesto. In a carefully worded and with George was reinvigorated. Neither of us had lost interest in the thoughtful President’s Letter in the February 1972 Green Mountain Club; George had served as GMC President in the Long Trail News, Pearlstein urged members to early 1970s. I thought we ought to have a day hiker’s guide to com- understand that times were changing. plement the Long Trail Guide. George agreed to head up the project. Those changes became evident in ensuing From time to time, I asked George how the project was progressing, summers as the caretaker program grew, and and each time he laconically said that it was coming along. Little did I know until it was GMC began to develop a coordinated approach to completed and published in 1978 that George had singlehandedly done virtually all of address overuse. Recognizing that the club’s efforts the fieldwork and writing that went into that first edition. to discourage use (sarcastically characterized as George had a passionate love of the Green Mountains. Eventually he hiked the entire “Protect the Long Trail—Hike the Adirondacks”) Long Trail several times. As a craftsman in writing, he recognized the limitations of lan- had been ineffective, Pearlstein blessed Boyd’s guage in describing his enjoyment of the mountains. ‘Trying to list the highlights of hiking energetic leadership of caretakers who adopted a the Long Trail is like trying to bail out Lake Champlain with a teacup,’ George wrote.” low-key, educational approach to changing hiker —Joseph E. Frank, Fall 2010 Long Trail News habits. They made the case for best practices

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 11 “Step by step the work was carried forward. Much the greater part of the task Illustration from 1924 represented the labor of club members, who went out into the wilderness, 2 Long Trail Guide scouted the best route over mountain after mountain, cleared the path, marked it with white-painted blazes. For the most part it has been a labor of love.” —Green Mountain Club Twenty-first Anniversary at the Long Trail Lodge program, September 12, 1931

247 Hikers Complete Long Trail in 2016! The following people finished hiking Vermont’s 272-mile “footpath in the wilderness”

Dale Adams, Johnson, VT Jennifer Chenette, Portsmouth, NH Dale Hanson, South Burlington, VT Christian Albright, Syracuse, NY Bennett “Sumac” Childs, Hanson, MA Laurie “The Capital Girls” Hardage, Ottawa, ON Jeff Alexander, Shelburne, VT Zoe Cina-Sklar, Philadelphia, PA Lisa “Ursla” Hardy, Colchester, VT Sarah “Peaches” Allard, Riverdale, MD Jeff “Silverback” Clarke, Seattle, WA Shirley Harman, Pollock Pines, CA Christopher “Boston Classic” Allison, Portland, ME Robert “Johnny Bravo” Clausen, Lynnfield, MA Katie “Guzzler” Harmer, Rochester, NY Seth “Night Raine” Ambruso, Woodbury, CT Travis “Bear Bait” Clough, Portland, OR Benjamin Healy, Cornish, NH Ben Applebaum-Bauch, Tuftonboro, NH Guy “Some Guy” Collina, Oxford, NJ Tim “HalfWay There” Heath-Swanson, Stowe, VT Jason “Tesla” Arble, Holyoke, MA Brenda Conklin, Waterville Valley, NH Ashley “Coffee Pot” Heinbockel, Glen Rock, NJ Colin Asquith, Allston, MA Kevin “Cookie” Cook, Naples, FL Rachel “Death” Hersuberger, Essex Jct, VT Patrick “SOLO” Auger, Lanoraie, QC Laila “Tango” Copperansky, Calais, VT Cody “Coyote” Hodney, Mendon, MA Cory “Hot Potato” Ayotte, Fayston, VT Ryan Corken, Reading, MA William “Suds” Holden, Lunenburg, MA Lauren “Blinders” Ayotte, Fayston, VT Bob Cunha, Plymouth, MA David “Uncas” Holmes, Manchester, NH Kurt Bachmann, Norman, OK Matthew “Zip” Curry, New Haven, CT Nathaniel “Cavalier” Hoover, Burlington, VT Ian “Egg” Beg, Stratford, CT Taylor Curtis, Killington, VT Adam “Six-Pack” Hopkins, Brooklyn, NY Scott “Aquaman” Benerofe, Plainsboro, NJ Carol “Pebble Moss” Czina, Burlington, VT Maggie “Chip Monster” Hopkins, Brooklyn, NY Helena “Triscuit” Bigelow, Landgrove, VT Robin “Stella” Davenport, Greene, RI Maggie “Two Cents” Howard, South Royalton, VT Dan “Doc” Blanchette, Concord, NH Marla “Big Blue” Davidson, Warren, VT Addie “Mac n Cheese” Hurwitz, Bedford, MA Goos “Goose” Boer, Brookline, MA Liam “Hatchet” Degener, Redding, CT Joshua “Duffle Miner” Jack, Albany, NH William “Malibu” Brainard, Logan, OH Julia “Whistler” deGruchy, Mohnton, PA Patt “Dilly Dally” Jeffries, Oneonta, NY Reggie “Funky Toes” Breeckner, Waterville Valley, NH Becky “Cedar” Dermyer, Kansas City, KS Blaize Johnson, Vienna, VA Charles “Chuck” Britt, Beacon, NY Levi Dermyer, Kansas City, KS Zile “Pinto” Jones, Henniker, NH Amy “Little Bear Stumbles” Britton, Palm Coast, FL Byron Doerfer, Needham, MA Patrick “Crazy Horse” Judge, Bethel, VT Dan Buehler, Wooster, OH Amy “Kramer” Doolittle, Cleveland, OH Sean “Ghost” Judge, Thetford, VT Brian “Smiley” Buettner, Brattleboro, VT Sorrel Dunn, Harrison, ME Tom “Little Finger” Kaczmarek, Albany, NY Alexa “Cermit w/a ”K” Butler, Norfolk, VA Wes Dunn, Winooski, VT Josh “Headlamp” Karmon, East Providence, RI Cheryl “Critter” Byrne, Wheelock, VT Stephanie Durell, Lake Placid, NY Morgan “M&M” Kennedy, Denver, CO Cindy “WHY” Cahill, Rochester, NY Kevin “Stealth” Dwyer, Shelburne, VT Eric Klose, Boston, MA Abram “The Professor” Capone, Fairfield, VT Douglas “Gray Jay” Eaton, Sunderland, MA Holly Klose, Boston, MA Dave Carlson, Hamden, CT Alan Edwards, Fayetteville, GA Richard “French Press” Knight, Boston, MA Jimmy “Wandering 1” Carr, Charlotte, NC Susy Ellison, Carbondale, CO Jason “Just Jason” Kolo, Cleveland, OH Sarah “Nuthatch” Carter, Ellsworth, ME Todd Ellsworth, Jay, VT Jessica “Adventure Time” Kowalski, Portsmouth, NH Alex “Aramis/Spam” Cerio, Rochester, NY Cecilia “Spunk” Elwert, Bristol, VT Ben “Sandstone” Kunesh, Olympia, WA Dawn “TaosDawn” Chandler, Santa Fe, NM Yvonne “Princess Doah” Entingh, Bellbrook, OH Petra “Aches and Pains” Lancaster-Fowler, Keelin “Bright Side” Esposito, Anchorage, AK South Burlington, VT Shannon “Mud Up” Esrich, Meredith, NH Mike “Maddog” Lantagne, Newport, VT David Farmer, Hinesburg, VT Mallori “Ladybug” Lazich, John’s Island, SC James “Porthos” Fess, Rochester, NY Sara “Tide Walker” Leibold, Hazel Green, AL Jim “Sisu” Fetig, Kensington, MD Josiah “Stilts” Leonard, Troutville, VA Backpacking Steven “Chief” Finer, Killington, VT Elise LePage, Longmeadow, MA Dustin “Sway” Finer, Killington, VT Scott “Bogart” Luria, Williston, VT 3 Food Supplies Garrett “Shepherd” Fondoules, Hammondsport, NY Deborah “Rosefire” Luskin, Williamsville, VT Tom “Aches and Pains” Fowler, South Burlington, VT Mark “Nussie” Luttrell, Bethel, VT Troy “Hobble Bush” Gallagher, Gilford, NH Michael ”Batman” Macdougall, Essex Junction, VT Brad “No Worries” Gaspard, Fairfax, ,VA Stephen “Scott” Magill, Montpelier, VT Michael “Overdawg” Gillis, Middlesex, VT Brendan “Admunson” Magill, Moretown, VT Paul “TARman” Goransson, Eliot, ME Archie “Scarecrow” Maker, Delmar, NY James “Cardinal 65” Gorman, Westerville, OH Sofia “Cholula” Maluf, Dobbs Ferry, NY Kenneth Grant, Liberty, SC Tracy “Chickpea” Martel, Fairlee, VT Marc “Sky Watcher” Greenwald, Loveland, OH Peter “Milkshake” Maslan, Cornish, NH Rebecca Grenier, Berlin, VT Heather “Pickle” Mayes, New York, NY Eli “Rabbis Little Helper” Grossman, South Burlington, VT Elisabeth Mazzilli, Moretown, VT Kimberly “Slow” Haab, Stowe, VT Amy “Candlelight” McConnell, King George, VA Samantha”Steady” Haab, Stowe, VT Moira “Velveeta” McConnell, King George, VA Bruce “Dreamweaver” Hadley, Broadalbin, NY Matt “Machine” McGarry, North Andover, MA Kacey “Chipmunk” Hagan, Vail, CO Shawn “NESN” McNeill, Billerica, MA Tony Hall, Shelburne, VT Anna “Red” Megyesi, Milton, WV Cyndy Hall, Shelburne, VT Andrew “Grape Nut” Meunier, Saratoga Springs, NY Food and Cooking on the Long Trail Julia “Boots” Hallquist, Syracuse, NY Emily “Trail Spice” Middleton, Essex, VT Walter C. O’Kane, 1938 Zachary “Pusher” Halstead, Somerville, MA Max “Bear Bag” Mishkin, Norwich, CT Robert “Gazer” Hanson, Woodstock, VT Kelly “Cadillac” Missett, Missoula, MT

14 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB PHOTO BY GARRETT “SHEPHERD” FONDOULES

Catherine Moleski, Montreal, QC Alison “Shivers” Silva, Fair Lawn, NJ Maxine “Pink Eagle” “Danger Monkey” Walsh, Hollis, NH Terence “Gourmet” Moore, Owings Mills, MD Peter Silverberg, Somerville, MA Dana Warner, Burlington, VT Carl “Cardinal” Morrison, Hampton, VA Anthony “Sleddawg” Sledzik, Higganum, CT Karl “Hungus” Weiss, Wharton, NJ Eric “Icefish” Morrison, Johnson, VT Colin “Bushwacker” Sledzik, Higganum, CT Gregory “L’Aventurier” Welter, Delmar, NY Mildred “Early Bird” Mugica, Hollis, NH Kristen “Boulder” Smith, Salem, MA Shellie “Gravity” West, Cambridge, VT David Nakic, Skokie, IL Shannon “Team Duffy” Smith, Jacksonville, FL Tamrin “Cariboose” Willey, Jamaica Plain, MA Amy “The Bear Belles” Nault, Lincoln, VT Emily “Blood Blister” Smith, Ocean View, NJ Rushton “Longportage” Williamson, Rockville, MD Justin “Stitch” Nelle, Hyde Park, VT Tiffany Smith, Jaffrey, NH Susan “JUST SUE” Wilson, Burlington, VT Scott “Tex” Neumann, Wonder Lake, IL Joel Smith, Jaffrey, NH Susan “Subot” Winters, East Setauket, NY Michelle Nichols, Johnson, VT Clinton “Silent Force” Stauff, Pawtucket, RI Julie “Honey” Wolfe, Williston, VT Rick “Old Toad” Ostberg, Ipswich, MA Scott “Old School” Steiner, Grand Junction, CO Lisa “Songbird” Wolfgang, Tuckahoe, NY Michelle “Hot Mess Express” Patrick, Salem, OR MaCayla “Dreamer” Stonebraker, Greencastle, IN Brian “Col. Musturd” Wolford, Fernandina Beach, FL Trevor “Rubber Knees” Patterson, Calais, VT Nolan “Tiny Turtle” Stonebraker, Greencastle, IN Judy Yang, Stowe, VT Peter “Migrating Bird” Paulson, West Stockbridge, MA Ryan “Family Mule” Stonebraker, Greencastle, IN Colby “Feral Boy” Yee, Lexington, MA Abigale “Shoelace” Pelletier, Orford, NH Crystal “Mamma Bear” Stonebraker, Greencastle, IN Jackson “Mooch” Ziegler, Pittsfield, VT Jonathan “Paperback” Perry, Sylva, NC Steve “Skunk” Strosnider, Lancaster, OH Janet “JZ” Zug, Tunbridge, VT Emily “Doc Holiday” Picciotto, Weymouth, MA Rick “Solar Aray” Swanson, Stowe, VT Michael “Tiger Mike” Pleiss, New Bedford, MA Daniel “MUD” Szigeti, Singking Spring, PA Richard “Mega 612” Polhemus, Montague, MA Kaitlin “Eskimo” Tallman, Essex Jct., VT Joseph “5 Liter” Pratee, Goffstown, NH Don “Dr. Doom” Taylor, Jr., Blacksburg, VA Eve “Weasel Masseuse” Proper, New York, NY Lucy “The Dusk Patrol” Thompson, Vineyard Haven, MA SIDE-TO-SIDE Dorothy “Berry” Punderson, Weybridge, VT Adam “Tinker” Tinker, Brooklyn, NY

Justin “Carbo” Pytka, Andover, MA Rena “Oyster” Tolsma, Hawthorne, NJ FINISHERS Brett Quillia, Newbury, NH Steven “What’s Up” Toner, Rockland, MA Leigh “Olympia, La Limpia” Rae, Montague, MA David “One Hundred Percent” Topol, West Hartford, CT Congratulations to 2015 side-to-side Tim “Neon Waldo” Rapczynski, Colton, NY Irene “Billy Goat Irene” Tournas, Cambridge, MA trail finishers who completed Susan “Blue Heron” Reit de Salas, Starksboro, VT Justin Tremont, Jamaica Plain, MA 84 side trails totaling 163.8 miles! David “Quandary” Riccomini, Albany, NY Ken “KVB” Van Buren, New Haven, VT Ronald Robichaud, Glen, NH Sarah “Piper” Van Cleve, Princeton, NJ Daniel Morvay, Mechanicville, NY Louis “Jerzee” Rofrano, Somerdale, NJ Margaret Van den Bergh, Ludlow, VT Starr Morvay, Mechanicville, NY Peter Rohloff, Salem, MA Hannah “Social Engagement” Vollmer, Thornton, NH Robin “17” Roianov, Franconia, NH Francis “Web Cutter” Roy, Saint-Hugues, QC Christina “Spotlight” Rubino, Garden City, NY Dale “Coffee” Rush, Dulles, VA Jan “Cheechako” Rutherdale, Juneau, AK VERMONT PENDANT Matthew Salvo, Westford, MA Tiffany “Finding Peace” Sammataro, Allen, TX Celebrate your end-to-end hike with a Joshua “Jew One/Two Jews” Scheidt, Burlington, VT hand-crafted sterling silver Vermont Daniel “Babyface” Schertzer, Hanover, NH pendant! $24.99. Lynda “The Capital Girls” Scrivens, Ottawa, ON Andrew “Why Not?” Seager, Rochester, NY Have your end-to-end date engraved on Todd “Nor ‘Easter” Sears, Bethel, VT the back: $34.99. Bonnie “Balance” Seifried, Marshfield, MA Philip “Gappy” Shea, Montreal, QC Available on our web store, Phyllis “SAYBAK” Sheffer, Mt Pleasant, SC greenmountainclub.org. Maggie Shepherd, Sausalito, CA Andrew “Stump” Shomette, Fredericksburg, VA

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 15 Free Vermont as a child nutrition advocate, and in 2014 I transitioned to my current role VHCB AmeriCorps as community and policy manager at the Vermont Council on Rural Development. I work at the statewide level to bring together A Look Back at GMC’s Recent Members experts and leaders to identify policy and programs that support rural Vermont com- munities. I now live in beautiful Huntington he Green Mountain Club has the past few years I’ve worked with outdoor with my husband in an off-grid home on the benefited tremendously from the organizations like GMC or the Appalachian shoulder of Camel’s Hump.” service of AmeriCorps members, Trail Conservancy quite a bit, and I always try T to push individuals to volunteer or donate to as have other nonprofit conservation and Nika Meyers, 2011-2013 housing organizations in Vermont. support them.” Members have come to us through the A passionate Nordic skier, Nika applied to Vermont Housing and Conservation Board What have you been doing since serve the Catamount Trail Association, but AmeriCorps (VHCB AmeriCorps) program, you left GMC? the position had been filled. Her application which has been “serving Vermont communi- “Right after leaving I thru-hiked the New was passed on to GMC, and the fit could not ties, cultivating leaders and inspiring collabora- England Trail, then the Pacific Crest Trail have been better. tive solutions to expand housing opportunities and, finally, the Long Trail. Since then, I’ve Describe your experience serving as an and steward our natural resources” since its been running my own business, Guthook founding in 1997. Each in turn has been our Hikes (atlasguides.com), creating smart- AmeriCorps member. group outreach coordinator, charged with phone app hiking trail guides for the “I had the opportunity to learn from a won- helping organized groups enjoy our trails Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and derful team of GMC staff and the space to with minimal disturbance to other groups or many other such trails, and trying to work be creative and self-driven, and to work in- individual hikers and backpackers. with trail maintainers as much as possible. dependently on programing and events. Americans have long served in the United Anything to keep me connected to the States Armed Forces, often sacrificing for our wilderness!” freedom. More recently others have per- formed meaningful civilian service through Jenna Koloski (née Whitson), organizations like the Civilian Conservation 2009-2011 Corps and the Peace Corps. Jenna was working for the Appalachian In 1993 President Bill Clinton created Mountain Club as a hut naturalist on Mount AmeriCorps by signing the National Washington when she hiked to the summit Community Service and Trust Act. Since observatory to complete her GMC applica- then a new generation of members has tion. When she hit “submit” she knew two pledged each year to uphold the program’s things: she wanted to keep working for an values by strengthening communities, organization focused on outdoor education, encouraging responsibility, and expanding recreation, and the environment, and to opportunities. work and live in Vermont. We asked our last five fabulous VHCB AmeriCorps members what their time with What did you gain from your VHCB GMC meant to them, and what they have AmeriCorps service to GMC? been doing since. “I gained valuable experience in fund raising, Ryan Linn, 2008-2009 program development, public presentation skills, and the basic ins and outs of working Ryan Linn Ryan connected with the GMC by meeting in a small Vermont nonprofit organization. Dave Hardy, director of trail programs, while I also learned that I love this work, which a Vermont Youth Conservation Corps wilder- reinforced my career goals of continuing to ness trail crew leader. work in the nonprofit sector in Vermont.” What did you gain from your VHCB What have you been doing since AmeriCorps service to GMC? you left GMC? “I learned so much about how the entire “In 2011 I had the opportunity to stay at organization functions, and how much GMC part time as the education coordi- behind-the-scenes work has to happen to nator while I pursued a master’s degree in keep even a well-established hiking trail like environmental law and policy at Vermont the Long Trail maintained and protected. In Law School. In 2012 I was hired by Hunger

16 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB Jenna Koloski The unique nature of the VHCB program neo-tropical migrants. Currently I am settled the professional development opportunities created collaboration between member orga- in Vermont finding ways to creatively express at GMC have given me insight into partner nizations, which helped broaden my perspec- my recent journeys through artwork (www. relationships and management strategies. I’ve tive and allowed me to engage with a larger nikameyers.com). also made leaps and bounds in my leadership community. I gained a new understanding skills; the idea of taking ten to fifteen little and appreciation for the natural and cultural Have you stayed involved with GMC? kids into the woods to swing around tools history of Vermont and the importance of Yes! I have come back to work as a caretaker no longer terrifies me! Overall I feel much volunteers in maintaining and protecting our on Mount Mansfield and a trail crew member, more prepared to begin a career than I did a public resources.” volunteered at club events as a trip leader, and few years ago, fresh out of college and living What have you been doing since provided artwork for the Long Trail News. in a tent. I look forward to staying part of the incred- you left GMC? ible GMC community and enjoying trails for What’s next? I continue to weave place-based educa- many years. My loose plan is to head to law school (if I tion, art, environmental conservation and survive the LSAT), but before diving into the outdoor exploration in my life and work. I Thorin Markison, 2013-2014 graduate grind I’m hoping to save up a little thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in 2014 and Thorin also met and worked with Dave cash for traveling with my partner, eating ice the Continental Divide Trail in 2016. The Hardy while working for the Vermont cream, and seeing what other mountains are wild and rugged landscapes became more of Youth Conservation Corps before joining out there to hike! a home than any space with four walls, and the GMC staff through the VHCB concepts like connectivity, accessibility and AmeriCorps program. Introducing our Newest migration fueled my dreams. I also had the VHCB AmeriCorps Member, privilege of working as a naturalist educator When Thorin started working at GMC, we with the North Cascades Institute and of con- asked what attracted him to the group Lorne Currier tinuing reforestation work in Costa Rica for outreach position. He said: Lorne is ready to “I was drawn to the culture and spirit of the make the Long Trail people as well as the opportunity to work System his new home. for the organization that maintains the Long Originally from South Trail and hiking trails in my home state.” Berwick, Maine, Thorin recognized GMC’s need to Lorne attended Keene improve the group outreach program’s State College in New documentation system and developed a new Hampshire, where he group outreach website. He also redesigned majored in geology the club’s orientation course, and stream- and environmental lined the spring egg hunt to get candy in the studies. With an en- thusiasm for rocks and Lorne Currier Nika Meyers hands of three hundred children as equitably and efficiently as possible. And, he used his landscapes he worked graphic design skills to create illustrations three months with the Wyoming Conserva- for the second edition of the Appalachian tion Corps, where he gained an appreciation for trail work, friendships in the woods, and Trail Conservancy’s Backcountry Sanitation a heaping bowl of Annie’s Mac & Cheese. Manual, the Long Trail News, and GMC brochures and outreach materials. After graduation Lorne worked for the World Fellowship Center in Conway, New Caitlin Miller, 2014-2016 Hampshire. With a newfound love for the Whites, he began a two-year stint working After graduating from Bishop’s University for the Appalachian Mountain Club as a hut in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Caitlin’s love of naturalist and caretaker. backpacking led her to GMC to work as a Eager to start his role as GMC’s group caretaker on Mount Mansfield and at Sterling outreach and field coordinator, Lorne is Thorin Markison Pond. She recently completed a two-year looking forward to helping groups and indi- AmeriCorps term with us. viduals become stewards of the Long Trail What did you gain from your VHCB and its shelters. In his free time he explores AmeriCorps service to GMC? new trails in Vermont, embraces his love of rock climbing, and hosts dinner parties at his I’ve learned so much that it’s humbling to home in Burlington. think back to who I was before. I’ve become —Jocelyn Hebert vastly better equipped to interact with the Long Trail News Editor public on different trail-related issues, and

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 17 Caitlin Miller Trail Mix 2017 Membership Survey Results

The Green Mountain Club surveys its • Members are getting somewhat older, with • More than fifty percent of members are op- members about every four years to learn the the average age increasing from fifty-two to posed to motorized vehicles and all-terrain membership’s characteristics and opinions, fifty-nine since 1994. vehicles affecting the Long Trail or its view and how they may be changing. Five hun- • Forty-nine percent of members are shed. dred members received surveys in 2016, and Vermont residents. • Members generally felt that that hiking trails 226 returned them, for an excellent response in Vermont are not crowded, with only rate of 45 percent. What Members Think mountaintops and Long Trail shelters being Information from the survey helps • The Long Trail and environmental protec- occasionally crowded. club leaders and staff to understand what tion and stewardship remain the most members want, identify priorities, and important issues to club members. Next Steps measure the effectiveness of programs and • Protecting and maintaining trails is the most The club is creating a five-year strategic plan, services. A summary of the latest survey important club objective. and the membership survey results will help results is below. To see the full results, visit • More than ninety percent of respondents establish our priorities. greenmountainclub.org/2017survey. said the club should continue to charge Please remember, you don’t need to re- caretaker fees. spond to a survey to tell us what you think. This Who are GMC Members? • Eighty-three percent of members are satisfied is your Green Mountain Club. We welcome • Members are two-thirds male, one-third or very satisfied with the maintenance of the and encourage feedback from members and female. This ratio has been stable for more Long Trail. other trail users. You can tell us what you think than twenty years. • Large groups, the use of mobile electronic de- by emailing [email protected] or • Members are highly educated: sixty percent vices, and motorized vehicles crossing or on giving us a call at (802) 244-7037. have graduate degrees, and more than forty- the trail are the top three types of encounters —Mike DeBonis five percent have undergraduate degrees. disliked by members. Executive Director • Members have been active for an average of twelve years, a time generally increasing since 1994. • The median household income of members Walk the Long Trail at Berlin Mall is close to $80,000. 601 12,290 $5,280 WALKERS MILES DONATED TO GMC Long Trail News From January 14 to April 22, Walk the Long Trail at Berlin Mall tapped into Vermonters’ 4 1940s love for the outdoors, and offered a fun, healthy, and educational experience. By walking 544 laps in the mall’s heated, enclosed common area, participants walked the equivalent From 1940 through 1944, the Long of the Long Trail’s 272 miles. Photos, Long Trail maps, and other media provided the Trail News decreased to 4.25” x 6” sense of being immersed in the Trail and its surroundings. booklets with green, lilac or white Participants’ walking distances were recorded as they achieved milestones along the covers with black and white photo- way, and the mall owner (Heidenberg Properties Group) donated funds to support the graphs. Pages were numbered using Green Mountain Club, based on the number of miles people walked. the graphic in the upper left corner of Walk The Long Trail at this box. Berlin Mall concluded with a community celebration on Earth Day—Saturday, April 22—with an award ceremony for the 20 people who walked all 272 miles; drawings for prizes, gift certificates, and discount coupons; and a $5,280 check presentation to the Green Mountain Club. Thank you, Berlin Mall!

18 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB Bryant Camp’s First Season a Success! Skiers and snowshoers have given rave reviews of their excursions exploring Bolton’s backcountry and overnighting at Bryant Camp. “What a magical place surrounded by nothing but trees and snow… Hoping to make this a yearly tradi- tion from here on out” gushed an anonymous renter in February. With a 75-percent occupancy rate from January 14 through March 31, and forty-one user groups spending a day or more Suzanne Nersessian and family at the cabin, we can call Bryant Camp’s first winter a success. The cabin will be closed from Sustaining Vermont’s Natural Resources April 1 through July 31 each year to protect the excessively wet site. uzanne Nersessian is a native Vermonter, Why is it important for you to support GMC Reservations reopened on June 1 currently living in Massachusetts with her and the Long Trail throughout the year? for booking the cabin between husband and two teenage kids, who views S When I’m in the mountains my senses come August 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018. her Green Mountain Club membership as a alive—the incredible smells of the differ- way to remain connected to Vermont. Wheth- Please visit the GMC rental ent trees, the sound of water rushing over er she’s on an actual hike, or reading about one cabins page at greenmountianclub. boulders in a stream, the amazing views from and seeing photos in the , for org /cabins to learn more. Long Trail News the summits. I worry about the destruction her, it’s all about a connection to “home.” —Mollie Flanigan of forests and expansive landscapes that were Sue was happy to tell me why she values Land Stewardship Coordinator once the picture of Vermont. With more and the club and makes a monthly donation in more building going on, I’m concerned about addition to her dues. the impact it will have. GMC’s work helps What is your connection to the Long Trail? to preserve the character of the state I love. I can’t think of a better reason to be a sustaining My father, who still lives in Waterbury Center, contributor. is an end-to-ender, and he continues to hike Early GMC different sections of the Long Trail each year. Do you have a favorite hike? He also spends dedicated time with each of 5 Member Most of my favorites are near my hometown our children taking them on Long Trail section of Waterbury Center, so I love Mount Hunger, hikes each summer. As a family we try to hike Camel’s Hump, the Lake Mansfield Trail by as much as possible when in Vermont, often the Trout Club in Stowe, and many other using our and Long Trail Guide Day Hiker’s hikes on or around Mount Mansfield. I have My husband and I have already started Guide. very fond memories of bringing my infant son planning our thru-hike once our children are up Hunger. in college! Donors like Sue are important to our long- You’ve been a member since 2011. term success. If you would like to become a sustaining donor please call (802) 241-8322 or Why did you join? email [email protected]. In part it was a way for me to remain —Alicia DiCocco connected with Vermont. I still consider it Director of Development home. And, I want to support all the work that The Green Mountain News, 1922 GMC does to preserve and protect Vermont’s wonderful natural resources.

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 19 Trail Mix

Club Updates Long Trail Lodge 6 Invitation, 1931 Stone Hut Fully Restored the trails, built and maintained largely by the Historic Stone Hut on Mount Mansfield volunteers of their sponsoring organizations, “Later the idea of a central lodge reopened for rentals during the winter of will need long-term financial investment to which would be the Club headquar- 2016, following extensive renovation in keep them available for the public to enjoy. ters in the midst of the mountains, the wake of a 2015 Christmas Eve fire that To read the full study, visit fpr.vermont.gov. was conceived. Thus Long Trail left it in ruins. Owned and operated by the Lodge came into being; and its doors Vermont Department of Forest, Parks and The Future of Cooper Lodge first opened Recreation and managed by Vermont State Last fall GMC met with partners and in December Parks, Stone Hut was built by the Civilian historic preservation and restoration 1932. For its Conservation Corps in 1935 as a warming specialists to look for ways to repair and location a site hut for workers on Mount Mansfield. manage Cooper Lodge. The seventy-eight- was chosen at In addition to serving as a popular year-old lodge, just below the summit of the summit winter rental, the shelter is home to GMC’s Killington Peak, is one of the highest shelters of Sherburne Mount Mansfield caretakers during the on the Long Trail. It has suffered from time Pass, facing hiking season. During its renovation field and misuse; in particular, skiers and winter the cliffs of staff had to find a new summer home, so hikers using it as a hangout have badly Deer Leap.” they built temporary tent platforms at Taft damaged the roof. Lodge. The platforms will be dismantled this Repair alone is not enough. GMC and season, and the wood will be used to replace project partners must work with users to rotting puncheon on the ridgeline. We are plan for sustainable management. Finding pleased to again be the summer stewards of money and encouraging users to respect and through the Champlain Valley, join the Stone Hut, and would like to thank Forests, care for the shelter will take time, but begin- Long Trail east of Middlebury, and share Parks and Recreation for their continued ning a dialog on critical structural issues, and the footpath southward to the Appalachian support of the caretaker program. convening a Friends of Cooper Lodge group, Trail at Maine Junction. are great first steps. GMC is committed to The GMC Board of Directors supports The Economic Impact of seeking common ground so everyone can the extension of the trail into Vermont, and Vermont’s Recreation Trails enjoy the historic lodge. the club is working with the North Country The positive economic impact of Vermont’s Trail Association to approve a memorandum major trail systems is more than $30 million North Country National Scenic Trail of understanding regarding partnerships, annually, according to an economic impact Work has started in Congress to enact roles, and responsibilities. This type of study released in November, 2016 by the legislation enabling the North Country agreement is similar to our agreement with Green Mountain Club, the Catamount National Scenic Trail to connect with the the Appalachian Trail Conservancy for the Trail Association, the Vermont ATV Long Trail and the Appalachian Trail in AT in Vermont. Once approved, we will Sportsmen Association, and the Kingdom Vermont. The North Country Trail begins welcome the addition of the North Country Trails Association. in North Dakota, and extends 4,600 miles Trail to Vermont. The study illustrated the significant through seven states to the west shore of —Mike DeBonis economic power of organized outdoor Lake Champlain at Crown Point, New Executive Director recreation in Vermont. It also concluded that York. If approved, the trail will meander

Camel’s Hump Summit

20 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB Field Notes

The field season is ramping up with a solid core of returning field staff and some great new additions. We will run two Long Trail Patrol crews and a volunteer Patrol, and we’ll staff a full complement of backcountry caretakers to cover high-use and fragile areas. As always, our construction crew will take on larger projects. Long Trail Patrol The Long Trail Patrol will be in the field from late June through mid-October. Their packed schedule starts with finishing the East Dorset Trail near Bromley Mountain, Camel’s Hump Cairn a multi-year project linking the Battenkill Valley and the Long Trail/Appalachian backcountry trail network. GMC will Mount Mansfield; andSterling Pond. Our Trail (LT/AT). They will also rehabilitate manage Bolton Lodge and Bryant Camp critical caretaker program will continue and reroute the LT/AT near Little Rock for overnight rentals. protecting the fragile alpine areas on Pond to avoid beaver flooding. This fall the construction crew will Vermont’s two busiest peaks, Camel’s On Mount Mansfield’s Frost Trail the replace the Butler Lodge roof with airlifted Hump and Mount Mansfield. Long Trail Patrol will build check steps material. Smaller projects include replacing (stone or log steps to control erosion) and ladders on the Mount Mansfield Forehead, Join Our Stalwart Crew! a small ladder, using materials airlifted last building an informational kiosk for the Bald Want to be part of the Green Mountain September. They will continue work on Mountain trailhead in Bennington, and im- Club’s late summer and early fall field the Burrows and Monroe Trails on Camel’s proving the privy at Seth Warner Shelter. staff? Apply to join the Long Trail Patrol Hump, and they should have time to put Tucker Johnson Shelter, located just or to be a caretaker. Visit our website, the finishing touches on the Long Trail north of Maine Junction, will be rebuilt this greenmountainclub.org/jobs. Positions reroute through Smugglers’ Notch. season thanks to generous donations of mate- will run from mid-August through mid- The Patrol will end the season work- rials and volunteer labor, and other public October, and applications will open in ing with Land Stewardship Coordinator and private support. Construction Crew early June. Mollie Flanigan to reclaim more open Leader Kurt Melin will supervise the project. —Ilana Copel Field Supervisor areas in the Vermont Appalachian Trail The shelter burned in 2011, and corridor between Maine Junction and New the site has been used for tenting since. Hampshire. Replacing the shelter will supply back- Volunteer Long Trail Patrol country lodging in a heavily traveled area and reduce damage to nearby vegetation. Our Volunteer Long Trail Patrol will again Ed Epstein, We are excited to have Tucker Johnson be based at the U.S. Forest Service Mount Artist Shelter return to the Long Trail System, 7 Tabor Work Center near Danby, and will and expect work to begin this fall. work five weeks from the end of June Ed Epstein created unique Long Trail through the beginning of August. Caretakers and backpacking scenes for GMC’s The crew will replace rotted puncheon Sixteen full time caretakers will take the publications. His scratchboard art- in Stamford Meadows on the Long Trail- field this season, thanks to funding from work has embellished the Long Trail Appalachian Trail. Then they will reroute individual donors, Vermont Department Guide, Day Hiker’s Guide, and Long 1.5 miles of the Branch Pond Trail (a side of Forests, Parks and Recreation, USDA Trail News since the mid-1990s. trail of the LT/AT) to avoid wetlands, and Forest Service, Mount Mansfield Colocation replace failing sections of puncheon. Corporation, Stratton Mountain Resort, Construction Crew Killington Resort, Sugarbush Resort, and Smugglers’ Notch Ski Area. Our legendary construction crew will Southern caretakers will cover Stratton restore and repair cabins and shelters. Mountain summit, Stratton Pond, Griffith After wrapping up work on Bryant Camp, Lake, Little Rock Pond, and the Coolidge they will move to nearby Bolton Lodge, Range. North of Bread Loaf caretakers which was built in 1928 by the Burlington will cover Mount Abraham, Montclair Glen Section downslope from Bryant Camp, Lodge and the Hump Brook Tenting area on and is now in the Bolton Nordic and Camel’s Hump, Butler and Taft Lodges on

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 21 Land Stewardship

Spread the Word, Not the Plants! HOW HIKERS CAN HELP ermont’s forests are celebrated for “Invasive plants are nonnative plants, the Green Mountains, so we have a chance diverse plant and animal life. From introduced into an ecosystem they didn’t to prevent or slow their spread into the Vspring ephemeral wildflowers and evolve in, where they cause harm to things Long Trail corridor. But this will require choruses of song birds to brilliant fall col- we value, like the environment, economy an informed hiking community and con- ors and moose trotting along the treadway, or human health,” Elizabeth explained. sistent effort by everyone. Vermont’s rich ecosystems help make the “Not all nonnative plants are invasive, but We can all help limit the spread of inva- Long Trail and other footpaths exciting the ones that are tend to have characteris- sive plants by taking the following steps: places for exploration. tics which enable them to grow in a variety • Know common invaders. Visit VTin- This diversity, however, is threatened of conditions, such as high seed yield and vasives.org to learn what invasive plants by non-native invasive plants. Elizabeth viability; shade and sun tolerance; early are a concern in Vermont and how to Spinney, the invasive species coordinator leaf out and later leaf loss.” People intro- identify them. for the Vermont Department of Forest, duce nonnative plants to new ecosystems, • Stay on the trail. Hikers are most likely Parks and Recreation, recently gave me either by intentional planting or inad- to spread invasive plants by picking up an overview on the threat these plants vertently moving seeds or tissues. Once their seeds in boot treads or on clothing. pose to Vermont’s mountains. Elizabeth established, they can change landscapes Staying on the trail limits the number of oversees the outreach and education efforts dramatically. seeds picked up. in the state to provide information about What does this mean for species di- • Avoid walking and camping on invasive the impact of invasive plants and connect versity? Elizabeth elaborated that invasive plants. Herbaceous invasive plants may Vermonters with the resources they need plants typically do not have natural preda- create an inviting green mat to camp on, to take action. tors, competitors or diseases, which allows but avoid these spots. The more time them to become established quickly, and you spend near invasive plants, the more can result in native plants being unable likely you are to pick up their seeds and to compete. Invasive plants may disrupt spread them. more than the composition of species in an • Check your gear, clothing, and pets for ecosystem. They can change the function- 8 Nature Guide seeds after each day hike, or periodically ality of forest succession, water absorption, as you thru-hike. After hiking brush nutrient cycling, and soil chemistry. off boots, clothes, and pets to dislodge “Trees that grow in a forest put all Invasive plants can also harm hu- attached seeds. If you are thru-hiking, their effort into growing upward to- man health. Lyme disease is an example: choose a periodic land mark, like trail- ward the light as fast as possible. Any “Research is finding that heavy infestations heads, to brush off yourself and your side branches that sprout are quickly of barberry—a thorny, multi-branching gear. A stiff brush works best, but your self-pruned, as they are of little use in invasive shrub—can lead to an increased hand or a cloth can also work. Seeds can the dark forest. Trees that grow in the prevalence of ticks infected with Lyme collect in the dust at the bottom of your open (in a pasture for example) take disease-causing bacteria,” said Elizabeth. tent, so be sure to shake your tent before advantage of the light around them “This seems to be because ticks utilize packing it. and grow thick the habitat created by barberry for part • Spread the word, not the plants! Look branches in all of their life cycle. The dense thickets of for opportunities to educate other hikers. directions. The barberry make a refuge for the white- Use a friendly, non-confrontational tone unmistakable footed mouse. These mice are an alternate and manner. You can also help to map form of these host for Lyme disease, and a food source and report invasive plants. Visit the “wolf trees” is for larval ticks. So, with more mice and Mapping for Heathy Forests Project on a sure sign that ticks crossing paths, you see a higher level the iNaturalist.org website. the land was of Lyme disease-carrying ticks in the tick “By taking these simple precautions, once open.” population.” together we can help to protect the woods The threat of invasive plants is a and trails we all value,” Elizabeth con- landscape-scale problem, because plants cluded. Nature Guide to Vermont’s Long Trail don’t stay within property or town lines. —Mollie Flanigan 2008, By Lexi Shear We’re fortunate that invasive plants are not Land Stewardship Coordinator yet well-established at higher elevations in

22 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB Invasive Plants of Concern for Vermont Trails

Japanese Stiltgrass Wild Chervil Wild Parsnip This grove might look like a perfect As you hike through meadows, pas- Don’t include this blossom in a mid- place to pitch your tent, but think tures and trailheads, keep an eye out summer bouquet! Wild parsnip (Pas- again: it is blanketed with Japanese for wild chervil (Anthriscus sylvestris). tinaca sativa) invades open, disturbed stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum). It grows well in rich, moist soils, and habitats like trailheads and the edges Japanese stiltgrass is not known to oc- can reproduce through both seed and of parking areas. An infestation can cur in Vermont, and we want to keep rooting of stems. Wild chervil’s aggres- spread and form dense stands. Wild it that way! When it invades a site, it sive growth enables it to outcompete parsnip sap often makes skin photo- can quickly crowd out native plants. native vegetation by forming extensive, sensitive, and subsequent sun exposure Invasions can also change soil nutrient dense stands. The small seeds are easily can cause severe blistering. cycling processes, inhibit tree survival embedded in boot treads and dog fur, and growth, and reduce light availabil- so be sure to check your gear, clothing, For more information about how ity. After it dies back in late fall it forms and pets after each hike. you can help reduce the spread of a long-lasting thick layer of smothering these and other invasive plants, visit thatch. Because deer don’t much like VTinvasives.org. it, they may browse remaining native Photo credits: Japanese Stiltgrass Grass c. Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org vegetation more heavily. Wild Chervil c. John Cardina, The Ohio State Univeristy, Bugwood.org Wild Parsnip c. John Cardina, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

A HIKER’S SCAVENGER HUNT: Natural Wonders to Look or on Your Next Hike Blackflies. Just the name makes my skin Blackfly eggs and larvae are highly is a reproductive strategy to get a high- crawl. Their bites can leave itchy welts, sensitive to pollution, and can survive only protein meal, which enables production and their incessant swarming is a form of in clean running water. The presence of of the yolk needed to nourish the larva. mental terrorism sufficient to drive the blackflies indicates high water quality in The blood meal triggers the release of most dedicated hiker out of the woods. the area. hormones that start egg maturation. Some might say this tiny menace The larvae feed on organic particles, Blackflies are important pollinators; should not be included in a series on algae, and bacteria. The ability to consume the males feed mainly on nectar. Among natural wonders, however, there are many dissolved organic matter makes the blackfly a other plants, blackflies help pollinate wild interesting facts about blackflies and their keystone species in stream ecosystems, since blueberries! role in Vermont’s forests that might help they reincorporate organic matter into the Worldwide, there are more than 2,000 you tolerate and even value them. food chain. So here you go, the top five species of blackflies (familySimuliidae ). reasons to marvel at and value the The female blackfly bites in order to —Mollie Flanigan blackfly, even while it’s chasing you mature her eggs before they are laid. This Land Stewardship Coordinator down the trail: biological requirement, called anautogeny,

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 23 Volunteers

Volunteers have been the backbone of the Green branch? Join GMC’s section volunteers Mountain Club since its beginning in 1910. as they maintain trails in their regions, In fact, the club could not manage our trails, and help other hikers have an enjoyable expe- GMC Regional shelters, conservation lands, and office opera- rience without puddle hopping or ducking. 9 Pocket Maps tions without them. Volunteering is a great way Shuttle Drivers The club began to produce waterproof to meet active GMC members, be a part of the With limited public transportation in hiker community, and support the work of the pocket-sized maps to provide more Vermont, hikers often need help getting to detail to popular regional hiking areas club. From swinging a hammer to making phone or from trailheads. Enjoy a ride with a hiker on and off the Long Trail. The first was calls—there are plenty of ways to help! this summer, listen to some great stories, Mt. Mansfield and the Worcester Range, and become a GMC Trail Angel! (You may printed in 2007. Since then, four Corridor Monitors need to open a window.) GMC manages more than 30,000 acres of more area maps have been published: conserved land. Volunteer corridor monitors Thursday Office Volunteers Northeast Kingdom, 2008; Camel’s visit land along the Long Trail at least twice Join the fun at the office in Waterbury Hump and the Monroe Skyline, 2010; a year to ensure conservation restrictions are Center with the Thursday Volunteers. Work Killington Area with Ascutney & being upheld and property boundaries are includes preparing and sending bulk mail- Okemo, 2011; and Manchester Area clearly marked. This is a great way to perfect ings, filing, often eating baked goods, and with Stratton and Bromley, 2012. map and compass skills, gain conservation interacting with a lively, tight knit team. experience, and observe wildlife. Parcels in need of new monitors are available along Summit Caretakers We need a few volunteer summit care- the Long Trail in the north between Bolton Green Mountain Club and Lowell. Contact Land Stewardship takers on Mount Mansfield and Camel’s Northeast Hump to help educate hikers about mini- Kingdom Coordinator Mollie Flanigan, mflanigan@ Hiking Trail Map

Directions to Trailheads• and Trail Parking Mileage greenmountainclub.org or (802) 241-8217, mizing their impact on the sensitive alpine Trail Difficulty Ratings Waterproof for more information. ecosystem, keep an accurate tally of visitor SECOND EDITION traffic, and perform basic trail mainte- Bark Mulch Packers nance. It’s a great way to spend time on one Why join a gym when you can pack bark of Vermont’s iconic peaks. mulch? Help us manage GMC’s compost- For details about how you can help ing privies by carrying mulch to designated this season, visit greenmountainclub.org, campsites and shelters along the Long give us a call at (802) 244-7037, or email Trail—good solo or group project. Bark [email protected]. mulch loads are heavy, so you must be in good physical condition for this one! Barnes Camp Volunteers Built in 1927 and restored in 2014, historic Barnes Camp Visitor Center is the gateway to Smugglers’ Notch and sur- rounding mountains, staffed by volunteers from June to October. This is a rewarding way to meet new people and share your knowledge and passion for hiking. Headquarters Handy Person Managing GMC’s fifty-four-acre campus in Waterbury Center is a big job, and keep- ing our buildings and equipment in top shape is an endless process. We’ll match your skills, interest, and availability to our project needs. Section Work Days and Projects Ever encountered a mud puddle the size of Lake Champlain on your favorite Volunteer Corridor Monitor hike? Been smacked by a low-hanging

24 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB Board Report

The Board of Directors met Saturday, Stephen Klein and Executive Director The governance review has focused on March 18, at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mike DeBonis presented the draft $1.7 million four strategic themes: 1) protecting and National Historical Park in Woodstock. fiscal year 2018 budget, a 3.7 percent increase maintaining the trail resource; 2) engagement We had a full house with all members pres- from this year’s. After discussion it was unani- and inclusion; 3) strengthening our sec- ent. Business included reports from officers mously approved. Revenue is expected from tions, membership, and corps of volunteers; and staff, a review of current year finances, unrestricted gifts, membership dues, grants, and 4) funding and operational excellence. a report from the Endowment Committee, contracts, fees, visitor center and publication After reviewing committee input, each board approval of the fiscal year 2018 budget, sales, and endowment distributions. Expenses member expressed his or her opinion on the and strategic planning. include staff salaries and benefits, and the non- most important issues facing GMC. The Treasurer Stephen Klein said income and salary costs of programs, administration, and lively discussion that ensued will guide a draft expenses continued to track the budget closely property management. The budget includes strategic plan for final review by the board at its so far this year. funds for an education and volunteer coordi- September meeting. Endowment Committee Chair Hope nator position. Please mark your calendars for GMC’s Crifo defined the purposes of the club’s endow- President John Page reported on the club’s 107th Annual Meeting, to be held at the ment: 1) to support operations through annual governance review and strategic planning. A Common Ground Center in Starksboro on distributions, and 2) to grow to maintain or working group, chaired by Jim Fritz of the Saturday, June 10, when the board will also increase its purchasing power. The endowment Connecticut Section, has been established to convene for its next meeting. We hope to see balance of $4.34 million is invested in a diverse consider the governance issues of sections. So many of you there. mix of mutual funds including bonds and far, much of the strategic planning effort has —Lee Allen, Secretary stocks. been handled by standing committees.

Book Review The Green Guide to Low-Impact Hiking and Camping title, Backwoods Ethics. The word Laura and Guy Waterman (The Countryman Press, 2016) “ethic” carries a 276 pages, $18.95 softcover powerful weight, a weight some fter reading Laura and Guy unpopular restraints: high numbers. may find oppres- Waterman’s classic stresses what many new Wilderness The Green Guide sive, but one that I was eager to delve into backcountry travelers may not know: the AEthics, the book’s topic woods were not always so crowded. In Chapter The Green Guide to Low-Impact Hiking and deserves. , an updated and revamped edi- 7, “The Coming of the Lug-Soled Army,” Camping Today, when tion of their 1979 book, . the example of cleared krummholz (stunted Backwoods Ethics how-to guides The backcountry, often viewed as an windblown trees) near Greenleaf Hut in the come with escape from civilization, has been far from White Mountains shows that trampling of the click of a immune to the world’s changes since 1979, the backcountry is not a simple matter of mouse, few books address our sense of land and addresses that fact. “bad” habits, but of “habits that had once been The Green Guide stewardship directly. Those that do, like The earlier book focused on the backpack- perfectly appropriate, but that numbers ha[ve] the Waterman’s, should be on shelves at eye ing boom of the 1960s and 70s. The num- transmogrified.” level, because a genuine ethic, not a set of ber of backcountry trampers dipped in the As more people head for the hills, the mere guidelines, underlies their recommen- ‘80s and ‘90s, but use has increased again. importance of low-impact practices cannot be dations. It is a deep ethic, one to live by and Popular trails and summits now see overstated. Luckily, the guidebook style of The ponder both in the backcountry and when record visitation each season. includes comprehensive recom- The Green Green Guide warming by the fire after a long descent. cites many examples of the effects mendations for mitigating the impacts of large Guide As crowds threaten wild areas, it is more of increased participation in activities like numbers. Readers can find hope in Section III, important than ever to stand by the ethic climbing, bushwhacking, hiking with dogs, “Toward a Sense of Stewardship,” which has of stewardship by which the Watermans and winter camping. After several summers chapters describing dedicated trail maintainers, advocated for so many years and that as a GMC backcountry caretaker explain- their techniques, and—a GMC favorite— continues to influence new generations of ing why hikers should stay on the trail, not their work protecting the fragile alpine zones trampers in their writing. pee in batch-bin composing privies, and of New England. —Caitlin Miller so on, I found it refreshing to finally see, in The book’s new title accurately indicates former GMC Group Outreach print, the culprit behind these sometimes the content of the book, but I prefer the old Coordinator

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 25 The State of the Trail

STERLING SECTION Tony Smith with chainsaw backpack

MONTPELIER SECTION Alan Paschell replacing wooden step

BRATTLEBORO SECTION Jim Mitchell trimming branches on fall work weekend Section Directory Bennington President: Lorna Cheriton, (802) 447-1383 E-mail: [email protected] Website: meetup.com/gmcbennington Both volunteers and paid trail crews maintain Brattleboro the Green Mountain Club’s trails. While pros handle big projects like building bridges President: George Roy, (603) 381-7756 E-mail: [email protected] and shelters or new trails, volunteers perform seasonal maintenance such as cleaning Website: brattleborogmc.com up the trail before and after winter, clearing blowdowns and trimming branches and Bread Loaf (Middlebury area) President: Ruth Penfield, (802) 388-5407 undergrowth, painting blazes and signs, and improving drainage. Volunteers also inspect E-mail: [email protected] shelters and tent sites, make minor repairs, report major problems, and clean fire rings Website: gmcbreadloaf.org and remove trash. Burlington President: Ted Albers, (802) 557-7009 Volunteer responsibilities are assigned to our fourteen sections (shown in orange on E-mail: [email protected] the map) and individual adopters (shown in yellow). Every section hosts trail mainte- Website: gmcburlington.org nance outings each spring and fall, and often have work parties during the hiking season Connecticut (Hartford, CT) President: Jim Robertson, (860) 633-7279 as well, depending on whether they have other projects planned for the year. E-mail: [email protected] Individuals can enhance the hiking experience for everyone by becoming adopters on Website: conngmc.com the Long Trail or the Vermont Appalachian Trail. Whether you volunteer with a section, Killington (Rutland area) President: Barry Griffith, (802) 492-3573 your family or on your own, maintaining a stretch of trail or an overnight site is a great E-mail: [email protected] way to give back. You can view a list of trails, shelters, and tent sites in need of adoption Website: gmckillington.org on our website, www.greenmountainclub.org. Laraway (St. Albans area) President: Bruce Bushey, (802) 893-2146 E-mail: [email protected] Website: gmclaraway.org Manchester President: Marge Fish, (802) 824-3662 E-mail: [email protected] Website: gmc-manchester.org OTTAUQUECHEE Montpelier President: Steve Bailey, (609) 424-9238 SECTION E-mail: [email protected] Kathy Astrauckas Website: gmcmontpelier.org updating a trail sign Northeast Kingdom President: Cathi Brooks, (802) 626-8742 E-mail: [email protected] Website: nekgmc.org Northern Frontier (Montgomery) Location: Montgomery President: Jane Williams, (802) 827-3879 E-mail: gmcnorthernfrontier.org Ottauquechee (Upper Valley & NH) President: Dick Andrews, (802) 885-3201 E-mail: [email protected] Website: gmc-o-section.org Sterling (Morrisville/Stowe/Johnson) President: Greg Western, (802) 655-6051 E-mail: [email protected] Website: gmcsterling.org Worcester (Worchester, MA) President: Ram Moennsad, (508) 210-6965 E-mail: [email protected]

BRATTLEBORO SECTION—Jim 10 Dave Blumenthal Mitchell, fall work weekend 2016 The modified Long Trail of Vermont poster map illustra- tion on the previous page was created by late artist Dave Blumenthal in 2006. The original poster shows locations of peaks and shelters on the trail. Dave’s poster and other GMC publica- tions are available at the GMC’s visitor center and online book store. Speaking to all fellow members of this new community, I propose that we make a pledge to each other: Let’s all try to be a little bit stronger and a little bit braver. Let’s try to be a bit more thoughtful with our words, a bit more CONNECTICUT SECTION clever and creative with our hands. Let’s be quicker with our smiles. Let’s Dennis Himes and Darry Ruiter clearing water bar all be a bit more generous and a bit more gentle. In short, let’s try to be a bit more like Dave. –Ben Rose, Fall 2010 LTN Green Mountain Club Outdoor Programs

At GMC we are always looking for ways to help you have fun, be safe, and learn more about the outdoors. Members receive a 20 percent GMC Education Program Sponsors discount! Visit greenmountainclub.org today to sign up for one of GMC education workshops are made possible in part by the support of the our workshops. business community and other friends of the club. To find out how you can Women in Nature Backpacking Overnight Natural Navigation support the GMC Education Program, Saturday and Sunday, June 24-25, 10:00 A.M. Saturday, August 5, 10:00 A.M.—4:00 P.M. please call (802) 241-8327 or e-mail Location: To be determined GMC Visitor Center, Waterbury Center [email protected]. Want to try backpacking, but don’t want to Improve your sense of direction, path find- Registration go it alone? This overnight course will pro- ing, and off-trail exploring ability through vide a solid foundation of backcountry skills a study of the ways indigenous people Register at greenmountainclub.org or in a relaxed, supportive environment, while navigated vast landscapes without maps call our office. Full payment by credit having fun with other adventurous women. or compass. Instructor Mark Kutolowski card, check or cash is required before We will meet at a central location to review teaches bushcraft and wilderness survival attending workshops. gear and our itinerary. Instructors will skills at Dartmouth College, and has Phone: (802) 244-7037 provide a suggested gear list two weeks in taught natural navigation methods to hun- E-mail: [email protected] advance. Participants will be responsible for dreds of students for fifteen years. their own snacks and lunches, but dinner Mark will explain how to enhance sensory will be provided Saturday night and break- awareness using memory aids and natural fast Sunday morning. navigation cues to read the forest. If you’ve Instructors: GMC Staff. wanted to become more comfortable in Limit: 8. the wilderness without technology, this is Fee: $150. Rain or shine. the workshop for you! Natural navigation A Century in the Please register by June 16. skills can be used alone, but also comple- 11 Mountains, 2009 ment other navigation methods and tools. Yoga and Hiking Retreat Instructor: Mark Kutolowski. “The climax of the GMC publica- Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 15-17 Limit: 10. tions boom was A Century in the Hadsel-Mares Cabin, Wheeler Pond, Barton Meet at Wheeler Pond at 5:00 P.M. Fee: $30. Rain or shine. Mountains: Celebrating Vermont’s Please register by July 28. Long Trail, which was the Publica- Lori Flower of Karmic Connection Yoga tions Committee’s heroic effort will lead a weekend of hiking and yoga in Adirondack Pack Basket Making to create a “coffee table book” to the beautiful Northeast Kingdom. Awaken Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, August 7-9, commemorate the Long Trail’s your senses and relax while mindfully mov- 4:00-8:00 P.M. 100th birthday in 2009. Dave ing through the forest. Savor restorative GMC Visitor Center, Waterbury Center Blumenthal took the lead as proj- evenings, stretching by the fire near your Andy Paonessa is a craftsman, naturalist, ect manager, and we hired Tom shared rustic cabin, or camp under the stars. and farmer from northern Vermont who Slayton as editor-in-chief. The goal Lori’s gentle holistic approach makes this a has been making traditional Adirondack was nothing less than to create a wonderful opportunity for individuals new pack baskets and teaching workshops for publication that would capture the to yoga or those wishing to bring depth to ten years. He prepares all raw materials essence of the Long Trail’s first 100 their existing practice. The cost includes himself, selecting, harvesting and process- years, which would still be valued lodging, breakfast Saturday and Sunday, and ing local black ash by hand. In this three- and used dinner Friday and Saturday. Participants are day workshop participants will build pack in 2109, responsible for their own snacks and lunch- baskets from start to finish, complete with at the es. A suggested gear list and itinerary will cedar skids and canvas straps. The cost Long be provided two weeks before the retreat. includes all materials. To learn more about Tra il’s Instructor: Lori Flower. Andy’s work, visit www.heartwoodvt.com. bicenten- nial.” Limit: 8. Instructor: Andy Paonessa. Fee: $250.00. Rain or shine. —Ben Limit: 10. Rose For more information please contact Lori at Fee: $200. [email protected] or the Green Please register by August 1. Mountain Club at gmc@greenmountainclub. Please check GMC website for future workshops. org.

28 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB For the ANNUAL EVENTS Young GMC’s 107th Annual Meeting Young Friday, June 9-Sunday, June 11 Common Ground Center, Starksboro at Heart Not just a business meeting! Join us on this beautiful campus for a weekend of socializing, hiking, and workshops. We’ve planned some new summer events and Trail Magic Day socials, so grab a nonmember friend and come Saturday, August 5 have some fun with the Green Mountain Club! Contact your local section to find out where they will be stationed at Long Trail and Appalachian Trail trailheads Centennial Long Trail Guide Release Party and and road crossings to provide information, company, and/ Long Trail Storytelling Night Hosted by Bill Torrey or edible encouragement to hikers as they make their way through Vermont. Check greenmountainclub.org/sections Thursday, June 22, 7:30-9:30 P.M. Outdoor Gear Exchange, Church Street, Burlington for section contact information, or email Membership and Communications Coordinator Kristin McLane at Sponsored by Citizen Cider. Check out the new Long Trail Guide, [email protected]. hot off the press 100 years after the first edition, and throw your name in the hat for a chance to share your best Long Trail story or Volunteer Appreciation Picnic sign up ahead of time at greenmountainclub.org/storytelling. Saturday, September 23, 1:30 P.M. & Green Mountain Club Visitor Center, Waterbury Center Mountain Bluegrass Jam Socials A day to celebrate our impressive volunteer corps—the First Wednesdays: July 5, August 2, September 6, 6:00 P.M. Green Mountain Club Visitor Center, Waterbury Center backbone of GMC. Food and music provided. Awards too! Sponsored by local breweries, this is a great opportunity to learn more about the GMC, listen to local musicians, and enjoy beautiful summer weather. Food truck will be on site. Make sure to bring your instruments and join the jam! Lake Monsters Baseball Game Tuesday, July 18, 7:05 P.M. Centennial Field, Burlington Purchase tickets at greenmountainclub.org/baseball to benefit the Green Mountain Club. Participate in the 50/50 raffle that night for your chance to split the prize with us! Young Member BBQ Social Saturday, August 12, 11:30 A.M.–4:00 P.M. Oakledge Park, Burlington Spend a day at the beach on the Burlington waterfront as we barbecue and socialize in the sun. Look for the GMC banner and table at the Lower Pavilion. Barbecue and sides provided, but BYOB. Stand up paddleboard discounts available. Also a great opportunity for families with kids to meet other young adventurers. Green Drinks: Young Member Networking Night Out Tuesday, September 26, 6:00-8:00 P.M. Skinny Pancake, Burlington Green Drinks events on the last Tuesday of each month at Skinny Pancake are socially conscious networking events featuring a local craft beer or cider. Come to this one to learn more about GMC’s work to protect and maintain the Long Trail and other Vermont trails.

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 29 12 Early Ad

Long Trail Guide, 1928

30 | THE GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB Journey's End

at William B. Douglas Shelter, because when I offered him some fruit snacks, he thanked me and took the whole bag. There’s more than one way to hike the side trails, but we did learn things that might help you enjoy it. Start with the list of side trails provided on the GMC website. Then sit down with the GMC’s Long Trail Guide, the Long Trail Map and a good road map to work out the logistics. Many side trails can be com- bined with another side trail, a section of the Long Trail, or both to make loops or lollipop hikes. Several side trails require out-and-back hikes, and a few of them are close enough that you can hike two in one day. Other side trails work well by spotting cars (two cars parked at different trailheads) for point-to-point hikes. In the end, plan your hikes for your preferences and goals, but do your re- search carefully and know how to reach the trailheads as a few are a challenge to find. Use your GPS, but don’t rely on it entirely. Ours told us to take a farmer’s road more than once. Starr and Daniel Morvay at site of plane crash on Camel’s Hump Daniel and I completed all eighty- four side trails in November, 2015, after hiking almost as many miles as we had or most Long Trail end-to-enders, the landscape. You’ll drive through small on our thru-hike. Now when we hike on side trails are ways to get on and towns and up dirt roads to places you the Long Trail and pass a side trail sign, Foff the trail, and reference points probably haven’t been before. You’ll see we look at each other and say, “Hey, for locating yourself on the map. That features you won’t see on the Long Trail, remember when…?” It’s like greeting an was certainly true for my husband Daniel like the abandoned rail bed of the Lye old friend. and me as we hiked north on the Long Brook Railroad, the huge sawdust pile So what’s next? Well, we’ve started Trail. Then we made a discovery that near the former village of Griffith, or the over. We hope to meet some of you as you changed our perspective. remaining wing of the B-24J Liberator explore the blue-blazed trails too! It began as we hiked down Journey’s that crashed into Camel’s Hump in 1944. —Starr Morvay End Trail after completing our end-to- And, you are likely to enjoy more soli- end hike in September, 2014. The joy we tude and wildlife sightings. It’s true that felt faded with the light, and when we some side trails are popular, but you’ll reached the road, we realized our journey have most of them to yourself, so be The Original was over. on the lookout for startled grouse. The 13 GMC Logo Or was it? Back home as I browsed caretaker at Little Rock Pond Shelter was the Green Mountain Club website I relieved to learn we weren’t planning to found the Long Trail side-to-side pro- spend the night, because the shelter was gram. This was the challenge we were full. We had spent the day hiking the looking for! Our journey wasn’t over Green Mountain Trail, and we hadn’t after all, and we eagerly set out to hike met anyone all day. What a contrast! every side trail. But if you like the comradery of the As end-to-enders we can testify trail, you won’t miss out. We enjoyed that hiking side trails is as much of an dropping in on the Long Trail and chat- adventure as hiking the Long Trail, and ting with hikers at different stages of First GMC logo printed in The Long has several advantages. You’ll better their journeys. I will always remember Trail Guide Book, 1920 understand how the Long Trail relates to talking with an Appalachian Trail hiker

LONG TRAIL NEWS • SUMMER 2017 | 31 Periodicals Postage Green Mountain Club PAID 4711 Waterbury-Stowe Road Waterbury Center Waterbury Center, VT 05677 and Additional Offices

Long Trail News is printed using 0% VOC, Soy Based Inks, 100% Certified Renewable Energy and paper that is certified by Bureau Veritas to the FSC standards.

LONG TRAIL GUIDE A Footpath in the Wilderness Centennial Edition

Following the spine of the Green Mountains from Massachusetts to Quebec, the 272-mile Long Trail is Vermont’s rugged, world-renowned hiking route. Whether you are an end-to-ender or a day hiker, the Long Trail Guide contains the information you’ll need to enjoy the scenery and solitude of Vermont’s highest peaks, including: • New and easier-to-read full-color topographic maps and elevation profiles • New shelter overview tables in each division providing quick reference information for shelters, camping, and water sources • Directions to trailheads and parking • Detailed descriptions of the route including shelter and trail history • Mileage tables and hiking times Sales of this guidebook support the Green Mountain Club, a member-supported, nonprofit organization which has maintained and protected the Long Trail since 1910. Order yours today! $19.95. greenmountainclub.org

Long Trail Guide Collector’s Set A special commemorative set, with a Long Trail Guide retrospective authored by Green Mountain Club and Long Trail history writer Reidun D. Nuquist, will be released in 2017. Perfect for Long Trail history buffs, guidebook collectors, and anyone who just loves the trail.