Caring for the Land and Serving People

Trail Facts:

Length: 5.2 miles round trip	Feature: Long Trail Access, Pond, Breadloaf Wilderness, Views
Max. Elevation Change: 1480 feet	USGS maps: Breadloaf Quad
Amount of use: Moderate	Hiking level: Moderate – Difficult
Average hike time: 3 ¾ – 4 ¾ hours round trip	Use restrictions: No horses, mountain bikes, or motorized vehicles
Camping fee: $5/night per person at shelter

Trail Description:

The trail ascends easily on an old woods road, crosses two small streams, and enters the Breadloaf Wilderness. The trail continues more steeply by long switchbacks, crosses the Long Trail, and then continues to Skylight Pond and Skyline Lodge at 2.6 miles. A $5.00 per person/night fee, paid to the Green Mountain Club Caretaker, helps maintain the shelter and trails, monitor impacts, and protect vulnerable soils, water, and vegetation.

Please practice Leave No Trace ethics, such as carry out what you carry in. Trail blazing, maintenance, and signage will be minimal in Wilderness Areas.

Directions:

From Middlebury, travel south on Route 7 to where it intersects with Route 125. Travel east on Route 125 for 6.6 miles and turn left onto Forest Road 59. Skylight Pond parking is located at 6.6 miles on the right.

From Rochester, travel north 4.0 miles on Route 100 to where it intersects with Route 125. Travel west on Route 125 for 9.1 miles and turn right onto Forest Road 59. Skylight Pond parking is located at 6.6 miles on the right.

Area Services:

Food and Services: Middlebury and Hancock restaurants and fuel stations.

For all Emergencies: 911

911 Information: The trailhead is in the Town of Ripton, on Forest Road 59

Map:

For More Information:

Middlebury Ranger District, 1007 Route 7 South, Middlebury, VT 05753, (802) 388-4362

Rochester Ranger District, 99 Ranger Rd., Rochester, VT 05767, (802) 767-4261