Shelters can be crowded in southern Vermont, and along the most popular sections of the trail. AT thru-hikers are making their way through Vermont during July and early August. Holiday weekends can be busy. Starting during the last week of August, there are fewer people on the trail mid-week after schools and colleges reopen. Temperatures can range from a few nights of 40's in the higher elevations to 70's or 80's during the day.
Days can vary from hot and humid, to pleasant, to cold and rainy.
Expect occasional strong thunderstorms with high winds and hail. During late August, it's not unusual for the temperature at night to drop into the 30's at the highest elevations. September Fall colors are usually brilliant in late September at higher elevations in central to northern Vermont. Shelters are busy during weekends at popular spots. Labor Day weekend is very busy along popular sections of the trail.