The largest, oldest shelter on The Long Trail – originally built in 1920, reconstructed in 1996.
There is usually a GMC caretaker in residence.
photos October 3, 2007
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How do i reserve it?
Reservations are not available, space under the roof is allotted on a first come, first “serve” basis. This is a simple backcountry shelter, so the term “lodge” may be misleading.
How does occupancy tend to be this time of year? What are the alternatives if there isn’t space?
Hi Andrew, unfortunately I haven’t visited Taft Lodge since 2007, so I can’t speak for its recent trends. I do know that it reportedly has space to sleep 24, and I was one of only three people at the shelter when I was there in ’07. The mountains get cold in October so I imagine there would be plenty of room. I think overflow camping should be possible in the general area, too.
Hi, i was wondering if we have to pay or make a reservation to stay a night in a shelter of mount mansfield. Thank you
It’s a very informal backcountry setting. There’s no reservation system and a caretaker may be present to accept cash payments.
What is a caretaker?
A caretaker is someone camping at the shelter as a temporary resident, commissioned by the Green Mountain Club to collect fees. This individual will often perform maintenance duties like shoveling out the fire pit, keeping an eye on the condition of the outhouse, clearing downed trees from the nearby trails, and educating visitors about Leave No Trace principles.