Hi, new to the forum! Am planning a southbound Long trail thru hike in September with Fido but the repeated mention of deep mud pits became alarming...I don't mind mud but extended soaking can be tough on the paws and being able to find dry spots to tent is essential. We do not sleep in shelters or lean-tos.

I keep up with trail conditions here and at:
http://www.newenglandtrailconditions.com/vt/

Although we are experienced backpacking in the Adirondack High peaks, White mountains, and southeastern sections of the AT, the only hike I have ever done in Vermont is Camels Hump.

Is hiking the LT really so different (muddier, wetter) than these other mountain trails?

Can any of you knowledgable folks give some perspective on

1. Conditions in the past week of the northern LT
or 2. What the northern LT is generally like in September, moisture and blow-down wise, relative to trails like un-maintained ADK 46ers, for example (Allen, Santanoni...)?

I really don't have a good mental picture of what to expect so any help is appreciated. Thanks.