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- Mount Ellen
4,083 ft · Green Mountains, Vermont
Mount Ellen
Mount Ellen is a 4,083 ft peak in the Green Mountains, Vermont. The standard route is the Jerusalem Trail: 7 mi, 2,588 ft of gain, Class 1.
Mount Ellen at a glance
- Elevation4,083 ft1,244 m
- RouteJerusalem TrailClass 1
- Distance7 mi2,588 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeGreen MountainsVermont
Climbing the Jerusalem Trail
From the Appalachian Gap on Route 17, or via the Sugarbush ski area, follow the Long Trail along the ridge to the wooded summit of Mount Ellen, tied for Vermont's third-highest peak. The forested top has limited views, though ski-area clearings and ledges along the ridge open up nicely. The Long Trail here is rooty, rocky, and slick when wet, with steady climbing. Start early for the round trip and carry water. Often combined with a longer ridge traverse toward Mount Abraham for hikers chasing the Vermont 4,000-footers.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (15–25 L)
Water
First-Aid Kit
Whistle
Offline Maps- Compass
Headlamp
Hiking Boots
Trekking Poles
Base Layer
Midlayer
Hardshell Jacket
Buff
Sun Hat
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
What to watch for
- Slippery terrain
- Insects
Quests with Mount Ellen
New England 4,000ersPeaks near Mount Ellen
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Ellen?
Mount Ellen is 4,083 feet (1,244 m) tall. It is in the Green Mountains, Vermont.
How does Mount Ellen rank among the New England 4,000ers?
At 4,083 feet, Mount Ellen is the 48th highest of the 67 New England 4,000ers. The highest is Mount Washington.
How hard is it to hike Mount Ellen?
The Jerusalem Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 7 miles with 2,588 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Mount Ellen?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Jerusalem Trail, covering 7 miles with 2,588 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Mount Ellen?
Usually, if you are fit. The Jerusalem Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Mount Ellen?
The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Mount Ellen?
The Jerusalem Trail starts at about 1,590 feet, roughly 2,493 feet below the summit.
Climb Mount Ellen with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list