- Region
- VT, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Confirm permit and reservation requirement…
- Managed by
- U.S. Forest Service, Green Mountain National Forest, Middlebury/Rochester District
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Breadloaf Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of Breadloaf Wilderness
How to get there
Breadloaf Wilderness is in Vermont’s Green Mountain National Forest. Forest Service-listed trailheads include Burnt Hill, Clark Brook, Cooley Glen-Emily Proctor, and Skylight Pond Trail. The Long Trail traverses the wilderness between Middlebury Gap and Lincoln Gap. Confirm road directions and current access conditions with the Rochester Ranger Station at 99 Ranger Road, Rochester, VT 05767; (802) 767-4261.
- Burnt Hill Trailhead
A Forest Service-listed access point for the Burnt Hill Trail, one of the side trails entering Breadloaf Wilderness.
- Clark Brook Trailhead
A Forest Service-listed access point for the Clark Brook Trail, which provides side-trail access to the wilderness.
- Cooley Glen-Emily Proctor Trailhead
A Forest Service-listed trailhead associated with the Cooley Glen and Emily Proctor trails, both wilderness access routes.
- Skylight Pond Trail Trailhead
A Forest Service-listed access point for the Skylight Pond Trail, another side-trail approach into Breadloaf Wilderness.
Sources: fs.usda.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory · Wikipedia. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
VT, USA · United States
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Climbing
- Mountaineering
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Hiking
- Backpacking
A forested mountain wilderness
Breadloaf Wilderness covers 24,986 acres in Vermont’s Green Mountain National Forest, making it the forest’s largest designated wilderness. Its namesake summit, Breadloaf Mountain, rises to 3,835 feet, the highest point within the boundary. Other climbing objectives include Mounts Wilson, Roosevelt, Cleveland, and Grant, collectively described as Vermont’s Presidential Range. Congress designated the wilderness in 1984, and it was expanded in 2006. This is not a forest without a working past: evidence of logging remains, while regenerating cutover areas provide cover for wildlife. The headwaters of the New Haven and White Rivers also lie here, with small brook trout in both. For visitors, the defining combination is mountain walking, recovering forest, and headwater country rather than developed recreation facilities.
Choosing a walking or winter trip
The Long Trail forms the main through-route, traversing 17.3 miles of Breadloaf Wilderness between Middlebury Gap and Lincoln Gap. Along that section it crosses at least ten peaks above 3,000 feet, so mileage alone does not describe the effort involved. A full traverse calls for planning around repeated climbing and separate starting and finishing points. Side trails provide additional access: Burnt Hill, Skylight Pond, Emily Proctor, Clark Brook, and Cooley Glen. These give day hikers and backpackers alternatives to committing to the entire wilderness traverse, but a trail map is needed to establish a specific itinerary and its length. In winter, the Norske Trail offers a primitive cross-country ski or snowshoe experience. Treat that description as a reason to prepare for backcountry travel rather than expect developed ski-area services.
Water, wildlife, and overnight rules
Plan to be self-sufficient in Breadloaf. Potable water is not available, so carry drinking water and a means of treating any water collected during the trip. Moose and black bears live here in considerable numbers; give animals space, keep food secure, and avoid approaching wildlife for photographs. Mountain travel also calls for layers, weather protection, and navigation tools appropriate to the season. Wilderness restrictions prohibit mechanical transportation, including wagons, game carts, and other vehicles. Overnight visitors may not occupy any single location for longer than 14 days in a 30-day period, and stays at any shelter are limited to two consecutive nights. Equipment, personal property, and supplies may not be cached in the wilderness. Before departure, check current conditions and wilderness-use restrictions with the Forest Service’s Middlebury/Rochester District.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Breadloaf Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 44.0102, -72.9296
- Latitude (DMS)
- 44° 0′ 36.9″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 72° 55′ 46.5″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Breadloaf Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
The largest of the Wildernesses in the Green Mountain National Forest, Breadloaf takes its name from Breadloaf Mountain, the highest point in the area at 3,835 feet. Within the boundaries you'll be able...
Key takeaways
- Region: VT, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 44.010, -72.930
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Breadloaf Wilderness
- Fishing
Resident gamefish, seasons, and the water that holds them.
- Hunting
Seasons, tags, and the units that hold animals.
- Climbing
Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
Animals around Breadloaf Wilderness
Wildlife guideBlack bearUrsus americanus
Big gameWhitetail DeerOdocoileus virginianus
GamefishBrook TroutSalvelinus fontinalis
Wildlife guideNorth American beaverCastor canadensis
Big gameBlack BearUrsus americanus
GamefishSmallmouth BassMicropterus dolomieu
Wildlife guideSnowshoe hareLepus americanus
Big gameWild HogSus scrofa
A forested mountain wilderness
Breadloaf Wilderness covers 24,986 acres in Vermont’s Green Mountain National Forest, making it the forest’s largest designated wilderness. Its namesake summit, Breadloaf Mountain, rises to 3,835 feet, the highest point within the boundary. Other climbing objectives include Mounts Wilson, Roosevelt, Cleveland, and Grant, collectively described as Vermont’s Presidential Range. Congress designated the wilderness in 1984, and it was expanded in 2006. This is not a forest without a working past: evidence of logging remains, while regenerating cutover areas provide cover for wildlife. The headwaters of the New Haven and White Rivers also lie here, with small brook trout in both. For visitors, the defining combination is mountain walking, recovering forest, and headwater country rather than developed recreation facilities.
Choosing a walking or winter trip
The Long Trail forms the main through-route, traversing 17.3 miles of Breadloaf Wilderness between Middlebury Gap and Lincoln Gap. Along that section it crosses at least ten peaks above 3,000 feet, so mileage alone does not describe the effort involved. A full traverse calls for planning around repeated climbing and separate starting and finishing points. Side trails provide additional access: Burnt Hill, Skylight Pond, Emily Proctor, Clark Brook, and Cooley Glen. These give day hikers and backpackers alternatives to committing to the entire wilderness traverse, but a trail map is needed to establish a specific itinerary and its length. In winter, the Norske Trail offers a primitive cross-country ski or snowshoe experience. Treat that description as a reason to prepare for backcountry travel rather than expect developed ski-area services.
Water, wildlife, and overnight rules
Plan to be self-sufficient in Breadloaf. Potable water is not available, so carry drinking water and a means of treating any water collected during the trip. Moose and black bears live here in considerable numbers; give animals space, keep food secure, and avoid approaching wildlife for photographs. Mountain travel also calls for layers, weather protection, and navigation tools appropriate to the season. Wilderness restrictions prohibit mechanical transportation, including wagons, game carts, and other vehicles. Overnight visitors may not occupy any single location for longer than 14 days in a 30-day period, and stays at any shelter are limited to two consecutive nights. Equipment, personal property, and supplies may not be cached in the wilderness. Before departure, check current conditions and wilderness-use restrictions with the Forest Service’s Middlebury/Rochester District.
Route options
- Long Trail: Middlebury Gap to Lincoln Gap17.3 miles
Traverse the heart of the wilderness on a section crossing at least ten peaks above 3,000 feet, including Breadloaf Mountain. Plan transportation between the two ends and allow for repeated climbing.
- Burnt Hill Trail
Use this side trail as an approach into the wilderness from Burnt Hill Trailhead. Choose a turnaround or onward itinerary using a trail map.
- Skylight Pond Trail
An alternative side-trail approach into the wilderness from the Skylight Pond Trail Trailhead. Establish the full itinerary before setting out.
- Clark Brook Trail
Enter the wilderness by this side trail from Clark Brook Trailhead; use a trail map to plan a return trip or connections.
- Norske Trail
A primitive cross-country ski or snowshoe option. Prepare for winter backcountry travel and confirm conditions before departure.
Sample itineraries
- Burnt Hill day hike · 1 day
Start at Burnt Hill Trailhead and explore the wilderness on the Burnt Hill Trail. Make this an out-and-back, choosing a turnaround that fits conditions and daylight. Carry drinking water; potable water is not available at the wilderness site.
- Long Trail wilderness traverse · 3 days
Plan a backpacking traverse from Middlebury Gap to Lincoln Gap. The Long Trail covers 17.3 miles through Breadloaf Wilderness and crosses at least ten peaks above 3,000 feet. Arrange transportation between endpoints and confirm overnight locations before departure.
- Norske Trail winter outing · 1 day
Use the Norske Trail for a primitive cross-country ski or snowshoe outing when snow conditions allow. Confirm access and current conditions before leaving, and choose a turnaround suited to daylight, equipment, and the group's winter travel experience.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring transition
Check current trail conditions before committing to a high-elevation route. If thawing ground or lingering snow makes travel difficult, shorten the outing rather than forcing a summit itinerary.
Summer
Summer hiking
Plan around sustained mountain travel rather than mileage alone: the Long Trail section crosses at least ten peaks above 3,000 feet. Carry water, treatment equipment, and layers for changing weather.
Fall
Fall hiking
Allow enough daylight for climbs and the return trip. Carry insulation and rain protection, and check the forecast before committing to the Long Trail or a Presidential Range objective.
Winter
When snow conditions support travel
The Norske Trail offers primitive cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Check snow and access conditions, carry winter emergency gear, and leave time for slower travel.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring transition | Check current trail conditions before committing to a high-elevation route. If thawing ground or lingering snow makes travel difficult, shorten the outing rather than forcing a summit itinerary. |
| Summer | Summer hiking | Plan around sustained mountain travel rather than mileage alone: the Long Trail section crosses at least ten peaks above 3,000 feet. Carry water, treatment equipment, and layers for changing weather. |
| Fall | Fall hiking | Allow enough daylight for climbs and the return trip. Carry insulation and rain protection, and check the forecast before committing to the Long Trail or a Presidential Range objective. |
| Winter | When snow conditions support travel | The Norske Trail offers primitive cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Check snow and access conditions, carry winter emergency gear, and leave time for slower travel. |
Permits, fees & closures
Confirm permit and reservation requirements and current wilderness restrictions with the Forest Service's Rochester Ranger Station at (802) 767-4261 before departure.
Official source: Breadloaf Wilderness - Green Mountain - USDA Forest Service · Verified October 19, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Potable water is not available at the wilderness site. Carry drinking water and treat water collected from natural sources.
- Moose and black bears live here in considerable numbers. Give animals space, never approach or feed them, and secure food and scented items.
- Repeated climbs can make the Long Trail traverse demanding: its wilderness section crosses at least ten peaks above 3,000 feet. Match the itinerary to the group's fitness.
- Primitive winter travel on the Norske Trail requires preparation for cold and slower progress. Carry navigation tools, insulation, and emergency supplies.
What to pack for Breadloaf Wilderness
- Trail map showing the intended access point and route
- Compass or offline navigation
- Headlamp and spare power
- Transportation plan for a Long Trail traverse
- Drinking water and carrying capacity
- Water treatment equipment
- Secure food and scented-item storage
- Packed meals and extra food
- Rain protection and insulating layers
- First-aid kit and emergency shelter
- Shelter and sleep system for backpacking
- Skis or snowshoes and winter layers for suitable Norske Trail conditions
Breadloaf Wilderness FAQ
- Where is Breadloaf Wilderness, and who manages it?
- Breadloaf Wilderness is in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest and is managed by the Forest Service. Designated in 1984, it encompasses 24,986 acres and is the national forest's largest wilderness.
- Which trailheads provide access?
- Access points include Burnt Hill Trailhead, Clark Brook Trailhead, Cooley Glen-Emily Proctor Trailhead, and Skylight Pond Trail Trailhead. The Long Trail traverses the wilderness between Middlebury Gap and Lincoln Gap.
- What are the main mountain objectives?
- Breadloaf Mountain is the wilderness's highest point at 3,835 feet. Vermont's Presidential Range lies within the boundaries and includes Mounts Wilson, Roosevelt, Cleveland, and Grant.
- What are the overnight stay limits?
- Visitors cannot occupy any single location longer than 14 days in a 30-day period. Shelter stays are limited to two consecutive nights. Storing equipment, personal property, or supplies as caches in the wilderness is prohibited.
- Are bicycles or equipment carts allowed?
- Mechanical transportation is prohibited in the wilderness, including bicycles, wagons, and game carts. Plan to carry equipment rather than wheel it in.
- Is drinking water available?
- Potable water is not available at the wilderness site. The area contains the headwaters of the New Haven and White Rivers, but natural water requires treatment. Carry water and plan replenishment rather than assuming a source will be available where needed.