Mount Ellen rises to 4,083 feet in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains—the state's third-highest peak and crown of the Sugarbush ski area. While neighboring Lincoln Peak gets more skier attention, Ellen is the higher summit and a worthy hiking destination in its own right.
The Long Trail traverses Ellen's summit, offering through-hikers and section hikers a significant peak without detour. For day hikers, various approaches provide options from short (via ski area) to epic (full ridge traverse from Lincoln Gap).
Trail Options
Long Trail from Lincoln Gap
- Distance: 10.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,600 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The classic Long Trail approach heads north from Lincoln Gap, passing Mount Abraham (4,006 ft), Lincoln Peak (3,975 ft), and Nancy Hanks Peak before reaching Mount Ellen. This route traverses the heart of Vermont's highest ridgeline.
Via Sugarbush Ski Area
- Distance: 4.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous
When the ski area permits summer access, you can hike service roads to approach the summit more directly. Check with Sugarbush for current policies—access may be limited during certain operations.
Jerusalem Trail
- Distance: 5.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
An approach from the west that meets the Long Trail south of the summit. Less traveled than other routes and offers a different perspective on the mountain.
The Summit
Mount Ellen's summit features ski area infrastructure—a lift terminal and associated buildings—which some hikers find detracts from the experience. However, the views remain spectacular:
- South: Lincoln Peak and Mount Abraham; the Breadloaf Wilderness beyond
- North: The main Green Mountain ridge toward Mansfield
- East: The Mad River Valley and distant White Mountains
- West: Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks
On clear days, the panorama extends for 100+ miles. The ski area presence fades when you focus on the view.
Ellen + Abraham Traverse
Ambitious hikers often combine Mount Ellen with Mount Abraham for a two-4000-footer day:
The Route
From Lincoln Gap, head north on the Long Trail to Mount Abraham, then continue to Ellen. Return via the same route or arrange a shuttle.
- Distance: 10.4 miles (out and back to both peaks)
- Elevation Gain: 3,500+ feet
- Time: 7-9 hours
This traverse covers some of the finest ridgeline hiking in Vermont—exposed rock, alpine views, and the satisfaction of tagging two significant peaks.
When to Hike
- Late May through October: Best conditions on the Long Trail
- Summer: Check ski area access policies if using that approach
- Fall: Spectacular colors from the ridge
- Winter: Ski area operates; Long Trail approach is serious winter mountaineering
Trail Conditions
The Long Trail section between Lincoln Gap and Ellen includes rocky terrain, some exposure, and typical Vermont mud. The ski area approach is easier underfoot but steeper in grade.
Practical Information
Trailhead Access
- Lincoln Gap: Route 17 climbs to the gap; Long Trail crosses at the height of land
- Sugarbush: Mad River Valley access; check resort for hiking policies
- Jerusalem Trail: West side access via Jerusalem Road in Starksboro
Parking
Lincoln Gap has limited roadside parking—arrive early on popular hiking days.
What to Bring
- Plenty of water (limited sources on ridge)
- Extra layers (ridge is exposed)
- Map (trail junctions can be confusing)
- Sturdy boots for rocky terrain
Quick Reference
| Route | Distance | Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Via Lincoln Gap (LT) | 10.4 mi | 2,600 ft | Strenuous |
| Via Sugarbush | 4.0 mi | 1,800 ft | Mod-Stren |
| Jerusalem Trail | 5.0 mi | 2,400 ft | Strenuous |
Mount Ellen offers a genuine 4,000-footer experience—significant elevation, exposed ridgeline hiking, and views that span Vermont's highest terrain. Whether you approach via the Long Trail for the full mountain experience or take a shorter route from the ski area, Ellen delivers the satisfaction of standing on one of Vermont's premier summits.
