Our Story

The first batch of Long Trail Ale® rolled off the line in 1989.

At the time, the craft brewing industry in America was on the rise and Vermont was better known for maple syrup than beer. When Long Trail Ale® hit the taps at local watering holes; it blazed the trail for Vermont’s craft brewing industry.

Becoming Long Trail

With the Mountain Brewers leading the pack, Long Trail Ale® slowly weaved its way into the Green Mountain landscape—becoming as much a Vermont tradition as the hiking trail itself. Commonly referred to as “the Long Trail guys,” we eventually changed our name.

Green Brewing

When we first started out in the Old Mill brewery, the greenest part of our operation was the glass we used. Besides being green in color, the original Long Trail Ale® bottles were recycled and reused Beck’s and St. Pauli Girl bottles. The bottles have changed since and, along with the shift to more environmentally friendly vessels like cans.

Community Leader

Besides making great beer, our other passion is serving the community, in Vermont and beyond. Long Trail’s commitment to charitable organizations is a part of our footprint that we take great pride in. Every year we partner with nonprofit organizations to sponsor a host of events like the Century Ride, a 100-mile bike ride fundraiser that benefits Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports.

Donations & Sponsorships

Pub & Restaurant

Located on the banks of the Ottauquechee River, our  brew pub offers a seasonally rotating menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients. On tap we have more than a dozen beers including our year-round staples, seasonal selections and limited releases. When the weather warms up, grab a seat on our deck or dip your toes in the water and go with the flow.

Visit Us

Joining Mass. Bay Brewing Company

This long hike through craft beer has been a journey through ups and downs, peaks and valleys. In 2022, we made the decision to merge the brand, and keep our roots with a fellow brand equally steeped in Vermont (as well as an employee owned company), Harpoon Brewery. We look forward to this next chapter in our adventure and are excited to continue hosting you at our Riverside Pub at Long Trail!

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