| Length: 7.8 miles round trip Feature: Pond Max elevation change: 390 feet USGS maps: Stratton Quad Amount of use: Heavy Hiking level: Easy - Moderate Average hike time: 5-6 hours round trip Use restrictions: No horses, mountain bikes, or motorized vehicles Camping Fee: $5 per person / night at the pond during the summer / fall |
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The trail to Stratton Pond ascends gradually through a mixed hard/softwood forest. Several wet areas dot the trail and are particularly susceptible to erosion, so planking, known as puncheon, is set over the wet areas to minimize damage to the trail and surrounding area. This blue-blazed trail crosses several old logging roads. At about 3.8 miles the trail crosses a stream by stepping-stones and makes a sharp turn onto an old logging road. The junction with the Appalachian/Long Trail is reached soon after. The trail follows the AT/LT north (left) to the pond. Stratton Pond is the largest body of water on the Long Trail, and the most heavily used location on the Appalachian Trail in Vermont. As a result of this heavy use, the potential for impact on the shoreline and the pond’s ecosystem is serious. Camping is restricted to the designated sites only. Tent sites and a shelter are available at the pond, on a first-come, first-served basis. A $5 per person/night fee, paid to the Green Mountain Club caretaker, helps maintain the shelter and trails, monitor impacts, and protect vulnerable soil, water, and vegetation. Please practice Leave No Trace ethics, such as carry-out/carry- in.
From Route 7 in Arlington, take the Arlington exit and turn west on Rte 313 at the end of the exit ramp. Take the first right onto South Rd. and follow to the end. Turn right onto Kansas Road and follow over Rte 7 and over a one-lane bridge. After the bridge turn right and travel east on the Kelley Stand Road for about 8.7 miles. The parking area will be on the north (left) side of the road.
From Route 100 in West Wardsboro, drive west for about 8.0 miles on the Stratton-Arlington Road (aka: Kelley Stand Road) until you see signs for the Stratton Pond trailhead parking. The parking area will be on the north (right) side of the road.
Food and Services: Arlington or West Wardsboro
For all Emergencies: 911, #1600 Stratton-Arlington Road
911 Information: The trailhead is in the Town of Stratton, off Stratton-Arlington Road.
