Appalachian Trail Community
Manchester, Vermont is just four miles from the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail, but a world away from the solitude of the forest. As a designated AT Community, hikers will find plenty of opportunity for resupply and hiker-friendly amenities. Summer is busy here with weekly cultural, recreational and community events. Hiker services are all conveniently located near the downtown. Manchester has been a favorite Green Mountain resort destination since the 19th Century and consequently you will see classic architecture mixed with modern shopping districts. President Abraham Lincoln’s son Robert Todd Lincoln made his home in Manchester Village where his Hildene mansion is open to the public and remains as a beautiful legacy of the era. Marble quarries in the region provided much of the stone for historic buildings in New York City and Washington, D.C. A few miles west of Manchester, the Dorset Quarry still exists as a popular swimming hole and a cool place to spend a hot summer day.
Hike into town on Rootville Road (2.2 miles) or hitch an easy ride from the 11/30 road crossing (5 miles). Many local residents are happy to share their car and swap stories of the trail while delivering you to your downtown destination. The Dana Thompson Recreation Area is a short walk from the center and offers showers for long distance hikers during regular business hours (802-362-1439). The Manchester Community Library has wi-fi computer access and is located on Route 7A north of town. The Farmers Market happens every Thursday afternoon at 709 Depot Street (across from the RK Miles Lumber Yard). The grocery stores, health food stores, laundromat, outfitter and eateries are all with in a half mile of the center of town. Stop by the new “Experience Manchester” visitor center on the corner of Rte 11/30 and Rte 7A for up to date information about events in the area.
The confluence of the Appalachian and Long Trails in southern Vermont makes Manchester a hub of hiker activity during the summer months. The Green Mountain Hiker Hostel is open during the summer and it is recommended that you make reservations for your arrival. Even though there are an abundance of hotels and motels in the area, availability of rooms can be an issue during the season. Watch for “Hiker Friendly” signs posted around town at businesses that cater to hikers.
Check out our hiker-friendly map of Manchester!
Note: All information contained herein is for informational purposes only. The Town of Manchester does not guarantee its accuracy. Please contact service providers directly for more information.