A Dramatic Crossing Through Vermont’s Green Mountains
Some of Vermont’s most memorable drives are the roads that climb directly over the Green Mountains themselves. One of the most dramatic routes is the drive through Appalachian Gap, a steep mountain pass connecting the towns of Lincoln and Warren.
Locals simply call it “App Gap.”
The road winds through dense forest before climbing sharply toward the ridgeline where the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail cross high above the valley. From the summit, sweeping views reveal the rugged landscape of the Green Mountains.
The road descends into the Mad River Valley, where destinations like Sugarbush Resort and the villages of Waitsfield and Warren sit beneath the mountains.
For travelers exploring Vermont’s mountain terrain, Appalachian Gap offers one of the most scenic and memorable drives in the state.
Quick Facts: Appalachian Gap
Location: Between Lincoln and Warren, Vermont
Elevation: ~2,356 feet
Region: Green Mountains
Best For: scenic driving, cycling, hiking access, fall foliage
Driving Appalachian Gap
Approaching from Lincoln on the western side, the road climbs steadily through forest and small mountain clearings. As the elevation increases, the turns become sharper and the views begin to open.
Near the summit, the road narrows and the landscape changes quickly from farmland and valleys to steep forested slopes.
From the top of Appalachian Gap, travelers can step out and immediately access the Long Trail, Vermont’s famous long-distance hiking route that follows the crest of the Green Mountains.
Continuing east, the road descends into the Mad River Valley toward the town of Warren.
A Favorite Route for Cyclists
Appalachian Gap has become one of Vermont’s most popular climbs for cyclists.
The steep western approach from Lincoln features tight switchbacks and sustained elevation gain, making it a challenging but rewarding ride. Cyclists often stop at the summit to take in the views before continuing into the valley.
During summer and fall weekends, it’s common to see both cyclists and drivers enjoying the same scenic route.
Hiking Access from the Summit
The summit of Appalachian Gap also serves as a convenient trailhead.
Hikers can join the Long Trail or Appalachian Trail directly from the gap and explore the high ridgeline of the Green Mountains. Short hikes in either direction lead to overlooks and alpine-style views across the surrounding valleys.
Because the trail access is so immediate, Appalachian Gap offers one of the easiest ways to experience Vermont’s mountain crest without a long approach hike.
Fall Foliage Along the Gap
During autumn, Appalachian Gap becomes one of the most scenic foliage drives in Vermont.
The mix of hardwood forest and mountain elevation creates vibrant color changes across the slopes. Views from the summit often stretch across valleys filled with red, orange, and gold foliage.
Because the road climbs quickly in elevation, visitors can sometimes see several stages of fall color during a single drive.
Connecting the Champlain Valley and Mad River Valley
Appalachian Gap serves as an important link between Vermont’s western valleys and the mountain communities on the eastern side.
Travelers often combine the drive with visits to nearby towns including:
• Bristol
• Lincoln
• Warren
Together these destinations create a scenic route through farmland, forest, and mountain landscapes within a short distance.
Explore Our Lincoln Gap Scenic Drive Travel Guide
Visit Our Bristol, Vermont Travel Guide
Visit Our Lincoln, Vermont Travel Guide
Explore our Mad River Valley, Vermont Travel Guide
Why Appalachian Gap Matters
Many visitors experience Vermont from its valleys or lake shores. Appalachian Gap offers a different perspective: the opportunity to cross the Green Mountains themselves.
The road climbs quickly into the forest, reaches a windswept ridgeline, and descends again into another valley. In just a few miles, travelers experience the geography that shapes Vermont’s landscape.
For those exploring the Green Mountains, Appalachian Gap is one of the most memorable drives in the state.
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