Cloudland to Thistle Hill Shelter

This section of the Appalachian Trail begins at the Cloudland Trailhead and heads north along a rolling ridgeline through central Vermont. The route climbs and descends steadily through mixed hardwood forests typical of the Green Mountains, with mossy understory and occasional clearings that offer limited views, especially rewarding during leaf-off seasons. Early in the route, hikers pass a few intermittent stream crossings that can run high in spring or after heavy rain. The terrain includes steady but manageable ups and downs, with brief steeper sections and Class 2 footing throughout. Dogs are permitted on leash, and dispersed camping is allowed where not otherwise restricted. The final stretch leads to Thistle Hill Shelter, which sits just below the ridgeline and includes a reliable spring and cleared tenting area. This is a quiet, forested segment well-suited for section hikers seeking solitude and classic day hikes in Vermont’s Green Mountains.