Mount Ellen via Long Trail

The route begins and ends at the Appalachian Gap trailhead, after reaching the summit of Mount Ellen by the Long Trail. Cross the road south to find the white-blazed Long Trail. Climb south, ascending 2,788 vertical feet over rugged terrain. At 1.4 miles, pass the Theron Dean Shelter and climb a steep rocky section equipped with metal rebar rungs. Around 2.0 miles, pass by the Mad River Glen ski area and Starks Nest warming hut. Follow the ski run briefly, then turn left back into the woods. Reach the summit of Stark Mountain at 2.6 miles. Descend to the saddle and reach the Barton Trail junction at 2.9 miles; keep right on the Long Trail. On the right at 3.0 miles, pass a short spur trail to Orvis Lookout and the Jerusalem Trail junction. Cross the Sugarbush ski trails near the summit chairlift, then continue to the wooded true summit of Mount Ellen at 4.6 miles. Retrace your steps to return.