Note: The Catamount Trail access at its southern-most intersection with West Hill Road in Warren is in very close proximity to a home. Please do not park in, pass through, or otherwise linger in or near the driveway to access the trail. Please also be sure your dog is leashed. Thank you for respecting the landowners who so generously host the trail. See the written trail description below for parking recommendations in this area (Access #2).
Snapshot
This section includes a fun and challenging traverse and descent from Lincoln Gap, an open traverse of the rolling Sugarbush Golf Course with beautiful views, and a meander through the woods of the Mad River Valley.
Length
11.3 miles
Difficulty
Reaching the beginning of this section at the top of Lincoln Gap requires a sustained climb on the Lincoln Gap Rd. from the end of plowing either in Lincoln or Warren. The initial descent on the Trail from Lincoln Gap is very steep and can be challenging, even with deep snow. Between this initial descent and West Hill Rd. the route is rolling with a few un-bridged stream crossings, presenting intermediate difficulty. If breaking trail, this section can take considerable time. Backcountry equipment with skins is highly recommended. Crossing the Sugarbush Golf Course is easy skiing unless a crust has developed or there is deep unbroken snow. The golf course can be windy. From the Golf Course to Rte. 17 is intermediate, involving some snowplowing and herringboning.
Staying Found
Out in the woods keeping track of where you are can be a challenge. A map and compass is always a reliable option, but there are some great technological solutions that can make knowing where you are super simple. Please visit out Staying Found Webpage for more info about some of our favorite navigational tools, and note that all of our PDF maps are geo-referenced. This means they can be opened directly in apps like Avenza and used for navigation even in areas where there is no cell service.
Catamount Trail Skiers Facebook Group
This group is for anyone planning any type of adventure (skiing and snowshoeing) on the Catamount Trail (thru-skis\end-to-end section skis\day tours), or other similar XCD/Nordic backcountry trails in Vermont. It’s a place to ask questions, share knowledge, and connect with others.
Downloads
Catamount Trail Section 18 – GeoPDF Map
Catamount Trail Section 18 – Written Description (.pdf ~20k)
Shuttle Directions Section 18
Your membership dues make CTA’s free online maps and trail descriptions possible. Please join CTA today!
Looking for more information, volunteer opportunities, or to get in touch with the Section Trail Chief? Please contact us!
Local Business Supporters
Lodging:
The Bridges Vermont Resort & Tennis Club, 202 Bridges Circle, Warren, VT 05674
1-800-453-2922, www.bridgesresort.com, info@bridgesresort.com
Mad River Barn, Route 17, 2849 Mill Brook Road, Waitsfield, VT 05673
1-802-496-3310, madriverbarn.com, madriverbarn@madriver.com
West Hill House B&B, 1496 West Hill Road, Warren, VT 05674
802-496-7162, www.westhillbb.com, innkeepers@westhillbb.com
Sugarbush Inn, 1840 Sugarbush Access Road, Warren, VT 05674
1-800-53-sugar, 802-583-6300, www.sugarbush.com
