Trip Planning

Many kinds of trip are possible on the Catamount Trail, from a quick spin around a ski-touring center or a few hours out-and-back, to a one-way all-day excursion, or a through-trip the entire length of the Trail.  Each kind of trip requires planning.  For longer trips, consider transportation to and from trail access points and overnight accommodations.

Safety should be the primary concern when planning a trip of any length along the CT.  Consider the strenuousness of the trip – the length of the route, the steepness of the terrain, and whether there are possible bailout points along the way.  Choose a route that can be accomplished comfortably by the least skilled and least fit members of your group.  Before leaving, get a local, detailed weather forecast.  Remember that it is colder in the mountains than in lowlands and that conditions are even more changeable.  Remember that day length is very short in winter in Vermont.  Plan to finish your outing with daylight to spare.  Skiing by headlamp is far more challenging than skiing in daylight, even if you are familiar with the route.  Keep your group together. Always let someone know your intended route and when you plan to return.  Be prepared to alter your plans if weather or snow conditions suggest this is prudent. Please read the Safety section of this website for important information.

It’s also a good idea to check Trail Updates page of this website. A variety of factors lead to periodic trail closures and reroutes.

Inn-to-Inn Excursions Along the Trail
There are many country inns and bed and breakfasts along or near the Trail. What could be better than enjoying a good meal and relaxed Vermont hospitality after a great day of skiing the Catamount Trail? In many cases, all you need to carry with you are clothes, toiletries, lunch, and touring items. In some cases, an inn will transport your luggage to the next stop for you. Many of the lodging possibilities near the Trail are listed in the back of this Guidebook. For more information on these accommodations, see the Lodging page.

Also, CTA publishes several brochures that can help you plan an inn-to-inn skiing trip along the Catamount Trail. Please contact the CTA office to receive any of these free brochures.

See the Camping section for additional information.