Long Trail to Peru Peak

This segment of the Long Trail begins at the Mad Tom Notch Trailhead in the Green Mountain National Forest and climbs steadily north toward Peru Peak. From the start, the route ascends through a mix of hardwood and spruce-fir forest, following rocky, root-covered tread typical of Vermont’s high-elevation trails. Roughly halfway to Peru Peak, the trail reaches a ridgeline near Styles Peak, where filtered views open through the trees. Continue north along the ridge, where the grade eases before a final short climb to the summit of Peru Peak. Though views from the summit are limited, the high elevation forest and sense of remoteness offer a rewarding experience. Descend to Griffith Lake to find dispersed camping and the Peru Peak Shelter, as well as a water source. This route is best completed as a summer or early fall hike, when trail conditions are drier and insects are less intense.