Located at 3,650 feet, a mere 743 feet from the summit of Mount Mansfield, the modest Taft Lodge provides shelter for hikers and thru-hikers along Vermont’s Long Trail System. Taft Lodge is the oldest and largest shelter along the Long Trail. Originally built in 1920, the lodge was completely rebuilt in 1996.
It can sleep up to 24 on wooden bunk platforms and has a large wooden group table. There is a caretaker from the Green Mountain Club during the summer months, and there is a $6-per-night fee from May through October. There is no electricity or running water. Visitors are responsible for bringing appropriate sleeping bags and pads, food prep, water treatment, and lighting. Pack out all garbage.
There is a composting privy next to the Long Trail intersection and a food wash pit provided outside near the cabin. Fifty feet south of the cabin is a water source. Water should always be purified before use.
The Long Trail South is the shortest hike to reach the lodge. Park near the trail intersection of Vermont 108 or at the Smugglers Notch Picnic Area. It is a 1.7-mile, 1,970-foot climb from the trailhead.
Note that Mount Mansfield trails are closed from April 15 through the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. Please do not hike and stay below 3,000 feet during these times of year.
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