This large shelter is only a short walk from Stratton Pond, at the base of Stratton Mountain.
There’s usually a GMC caretaker on duty.
photos October 17, 2007
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Hi Jamie! Love reading your website.
A buddy and I are doing a small section hike in mid-September from Kelly Stand Rd to VT 11/30 (not going to carry a tent). How busy does this shelter get? Should we just press on a few more miles to William Douglas Shelter to avoid the crowds?
Thanks!
Hi Adam, I’d say it’s a bit of toss-up on this one. Stratton Pond is certainly the more popular area, though I’d personally stay there anyway if there’s space when you arrive. William Douglas is about a half mile (one way) off the main trail, but apparently has a fancy new privy. I’d just play it by ear and make the decision when you get to Stratton.
Hi,
I am on a overnight bike tour to pick up my daughters car at the trailhead on the LT. She is doing that with her husband. Can I stay overnight at the Stratton shelter! And could I get my bike up the trail to it?
Thank you,
Paul
I think the shelter is only accessible via foot trails.
I have hike the Long Trail a number of times in my youth, I’m now 82 and live in Fl, (not to my liking) .Ross camp at Straton was always something I looked forward too, Great camp and no better swimming any where except Dorset Quarry. It’s been about 50 years , just wondering if it’s still there.
Thanks for your comment Tom. Willis Ross Camp burned down in 1972. All of the lean-to’s that sat directly on the shores of Stratton Pond are now gone (I think most ended up burning down). Nowadays with more traffic on the trails, I think the GMC likes to set the designated camps away from the shores to protect the lake’s serene setting.