Backpacker magazine recently did a quick blurb about the best 50.4 miles section of the hike. I couldn’t agree more with their vote - the Mount Mansfield section is a classic trek. Consult you Long Trail Guide Book, then head off to the trail head near the Waterbury area. A nice one week outing with the troop/crew. Backerpacker provides the following visual:

I’d link to the article, but Backpacker Magazine’s website is just difficult. They need rethink the design. Too much clutter and the IE7 web browser I use just has a difficult time bringing in articles before they disappear before my eyes.