The AT/Long Trail US Route 4 trailhead at Mendon marks the “Maine Junction,” where the Appalachian Trail splits off from the Long Trail near the US Route 4 crossing. This is a major junction for long-distance hikers on Vermont’s Long Trail, which follows the main ridge of the Green Mountains from the Massachusetts-Vermont line to the Canadian border. The trail is steep in places, muddy in others, and rugged for most of its length. From this trailhead, popular day hikes include the 12.3-mile out-and-back to Killington Peak, which is generally considered a challenging route taking about 6 hours 49 minutes to complete. Another nearby option features streams, brooks, and a waterfall, with shelter spots available along the way. The Long Trail and Appalachian Trail overlap for approximately 100 miles in southern Vermont, making this trailhead an important access point for both day hikers and thru-hikers. Hikers encounter pristine ponds, alpine sedge, hardwood forests, and swift streams along the Long Trail.