Bucklin Trailhead | Rutland

Information

Landmark: Bucklin Trailhead
City: Rutland
Country: USA Vermont
Continent: North America

Bucklin Trailhead, Rutland, USA Vermont, North America

The Bucklin Trailhead serves as the primary access point for the Long Trail in central Vermont. It is situated in Chittenden, Vermont, approximately 15 miles northwest of Rutland.

Visual Characteristics

The trailhead features a gravel parking area adjacent to a paved access road. A wooden sign marks the entrance to the trail. The surrounding environment consists of mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with the Bucklin Brook running alongside the initial section of the trail.

Location & Access Logistics

Access is via U.S. Route 4 West from Rutland. Turn north onto Forest Road 27 (also known as Bucklin Road). The trailhead is located approximately 3 miles down Forest Road 27. Parking is available in a designated gravel lot with capacity for approximately 20 vehicles. No public transport services this location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Bucklin Trail is part of the Long Trail system, established in 1910 by the Green Mountain Club. The trail follows the watershed of the Bucklin Brook, a tributary of the Otter Creek. The area is characterized by glacial till and metamorphic rock formations typical of the Green Mountains.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking the Bucklin Trail to the Long Trail is the primary activity. The trail ascends steadily through forest terrain. The Long Trail itself offers opportunities for northbound and southbound day hikes or longer backpacking trips. The Bucklin Brook is visible and audible for the first mile of the trail.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The trailhead provides a parking area and a trail marker. No restrooms, shade structures, or food vendors are present at the trailhead. Cell phone signal is intermittent to non-existent within the parking area and along the initial trail segment.

Best Time to Visit

Daylight hours are recommended for hiking. The trail is generally accessible from late spring through fall. Mud can be present in early spring and after heavy rain. Fall foliage offers distinct visual characteristics from mid-September to mid-October.

Facts & Legends

The Bucklin Trail is one of the older sections of the Long Trail. A unique feature is the presence of several large, moss-covered boulders near the trail's beginning, remnants of glacial activity.