Mount Abraham is special. At 4,006 feet, it's Vermont's fifth-highest peak, but more importantly, it's one of only three mountains in the state with true alpine tundra (the others being Mansfield and Camel's Hump). This rare high-altitude ecosystem—a relic of the last ice age—makes Abraham a destination for hikers who want to experience Vermont's wildest summit terrain.
The Long Trail crosses Abraham's summit, and the most popular approach from Lincoln Gap offers a relatively short but steep climb to the alpine zone. It's a challenging hike that rewards with far-reaching views and a genuine above-treeline experience.
Trail Overview
Long Trail from Lincoln Gap
- Distance: 5.2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 4-5 hours
The standard route begins at Lincoln Gap, the highest paved pass in Vermont at 2,424 feet. The Long Trail heads north, climbing steeply through spruce-fir forest before emerging into the alpine zone for the final approach.
Trail Character
This isn't a gentle climb. The trail gains most of its elevation in about 2 miles, with rocky, rooty terrain throughout. Ladders and rock scrambles are common in the upper section. The reward is reaching the open alpine summit relatively quickly.
The Alpine Zone
What You'll See
Abraham's summit hosts alpine tundra—an ecosystem that exists elsewhere only in the Arctic and on the highest peaks of New England. The plants here are tiny, tough, and ancient:
- Alpine bilberry
- Mountain sandwort
- Bigelow's sedge
- Three-toothed cinquefoil
Protection
This ecosystem is extremely fragile. The plants you step on may have taken decades to grow. Stay on marked trails and rock surfaces at all times. Even careful footsteps off-trail can cause lasting damage.
Summit Views
From Abraham's rocky summit, views extend in all directions:
- North: Mount Ellen and the ridgeline toward Camel's Hump
- South: Lincoln Peak and the ski trails of Sugarbush
- East: The Worcester Range and distant White Mountains
- West: Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks
Practical Information
Getting There
Lincoln Gap Road connects Lincoln and Warren. The trailhead parking area is at the height of the gap. Note: Lincoln Gap Road typically closes for winter (November-May) and can be rough in mud season.
When to Hike
- June-October: Best conditions
- Late September: Fall colors below, stark beauty above
- Avoid: Mud season (April-May) when trails are sensitive
What to Bring
- Layers—the summit is exposed and often windy
- Sturdy boots for rocky terrain
- Plenty of water—no reliable sources on the trail
Extending Your Hike
Mount Ellen
Continue north on the Long Trail to Mount Ellen (4,083'), Vermont's third-highest peak. This adds about 4 miles round trip and crosses the challenging Lincoln-Ellen ridge.
Battell Shelter
Just south of Abraham's summit, Battell Shelter offers a backcountry camping option for those wanting an overnight adventure.
Quick Reference: Mount Abraham
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 4,006 feet |
| Distance | 5.2 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | 1,800 feet |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Alpine Tundra | Yes |
Mount Abraham offers the rare opportunity to experience alpine tundra without climbing Vermont's higher peaks. The steep trail and rugged terrain make it challenging, but the summit rewards with expansive views and a genuine above-treeline environment. Tread carefully—you're walking on ecosystems that took thousands of years to develop.
