16 PREFACE

The description of THE LONG TRAIL has been divided into twelve Divisions to correspond with the section maps as shown in the following pages. Each section map with its tabulated mileage is placed at the end of the description of each section. The maps do not show all of the details of the Trail and for this reason, the longer description should be studied in connection with each section map. In general, the approach trails leading to The Long Trail are distinguished from side trails by being painted wagon blue. THE LONG TRAIL proper is marked with white blazes. It will be noted that there is considerable variation in the nomenclature of the shelters; some are called lodges, others, camps. Some shelters are open-front, others are enclosed. The symbols on the maps show where the different types of shelters are located.

Where THE LONG TRAIL begins Bennington, Vermont HOTEL PUTNAM An ideal overnight stop at the start or finish of your trip 154 Miles from Boston 186 Miles from New York GOOD NEW ENGLAND FOODS Comfortable and Modern Accommodations GEO. R. BUSH, Manager

Division I

BLACKINTON AND WILLIAMSTOWN, MASS., TO BENNINGTON-WILMINGTON, VT., HIGHWAY

The south end of the Long Trail proper is located at the point where the Vermont-Massachusetts state line crosses the ridge of the Green Mts. This point is in the woods north of Blackinton, Mass., and it is necessary to reach it by an approach trail. There are two of these approach trails, (a) from the main highway at Blackinton, Mass., 3 1/2 miles west of North Adams, and (b) from the main highway at Williamstown Station, 5 miles west of North Adams.

(a) Go up the side street leading due north from the office of the Blackinton Mill, pass Long Trail sign, and from the last house continue north on wood road, gradually ascending thru forest to the top of the ridge, where Pine Cobble appears to the west. On reaching telephone line follow the line to the left to junction with trail (b). Here turn right, cross rough, barren land, marked by cairns, for about a mile and enter woods; after a mile of easy walking thru the woods the State Line is reached and the Long Trail begins. A cleared lane thru the woods marks the State Line and a sign indicates the beginning of the Trail. Distance from Blackinton to junction of (a) and (b), 3 miles, and to State Line, 5 miles. Time to State Line, 4 to 5 hours. (Somewhat less southbound). This approach trail is marked by white blazes.

(b) From the bridge over the B. & M. tracks just north of Williamstown Station go east across