Usually, I run my hikes pretty carefully. I play sweep, I make sure everyone who comes along gets home, I make sure everybody has what they need, etc. This time, I won't be playing nanny. This trail is easy, well-groomed and blazed, and I don't expect anybody to have problems. However, be sure you know what to bring - if you don't, ask! I plan on going all the way to Prospect Rock and back; since this is an "out-and-back," other hikers can turn back as early as they like. I'll be hiking at what I'll consider to be an easy, comfortable pace; don't think I'm going to hold back and carry anybody up the hills.
Having said all that, I don't think it's going to be an issue. This is an easy hike in a very heavily trafficked area. We'll also be on the AT during the main part of the season - both northbound and southbound thru-hikers will be passing through this area at this time of the year, as well as the occasional LT thru-hiker. Finally, if there's an emergency, there's a convenient evacuation route in the old Rootville Road. In fact, in case of a drastic medical emergency, rescue personnel can get a vehicle up this road to take out an injured party.
Just don't do anything stupid. If you have doubts regarding your abilities to handle this trek, then bring a buddy and stay with him/her. Preferably, make it a buddy that knows how to backpack. And if you think you're in over your head, turn back!
A topographic map of the section can be found at http://www.vermont-st.com/longtrail/maps/noframe/06strat.html. The entire site is great, the finest online maps of any trail I've ever seen - the entire Long Trail is on it.
From 11/30, head south, across the highway. The trail is fairly well groomed, as it's both Long Trail and Appalachian Trail in this stretch. Good sturdy boots are always a good idea, but let's be honest: this trail can be hiked in sneakers, as long as you don't care if you get your sneakers dirty and/or muddy.
Initially you'll cross a few streams, no wading required, then a long climb up a ridgeline. It's not steep, just long for the beginner. After the ascent, the trail will level out for a while with minor bumps all the way to Spruce Peak. Spruce Peak is off a spur trail to the west (right). Enjoy the views.
People that are feeling the trip can turn back here. Those who have energy left can continue on to Spruce Peak Shelter, about another half mile. This makes a nice place to stop for lunch and rest a bit.
Those who've had enough can still turn back. The rest can continue on south to Prospect Rock, the southern end of this trip. Since Prospect Rock is on an old dirt road (Rootville Road) out of Manchester, it's theoretically possible to drive a vehicle up this far. I really don't recommend it. However, if we have an emergency and someone comes up lame, we can send them down the dirt road - all gentle downhill - about 2 miles to the highway, and possibly pick 'em up there at the end of the day. Let's not do this, people - don't be stupid.
Bring sturdy shoes or boots, dress for a high of 78, bring at least a liter of water, and pack a lunch. Obviously, you'll need a day-pack to carry that in. I'd also recommend that you bring whatever extra layers seem sensible to you - it almost certainly won't rain, but what if? Bring a camera if you want it. Wear insect repellent at your preference. Do not wear cologne or perfume, or you'll make many many bugs very very happy.
As always, all mileages are taken from the starting point.
From routes 11 and 30 (the Manchester-Peru Highway), head south through large boulders to a bridge over a stream (0.4 mi.), then cross an abandoned road, old Vt 30. Shortly beyond, cross a stream, then begin a winding climb to the top of a ridge, passing two vistas to the west near the top. After a gradual descent, cross a woods road at 1.9 mi.. Cross a power line just beyond the woods road, then a brook, and reach a spur trail (2.4 mi.) west (right) leading 300 ft. to Spruce Peak.
Beyond the spur trail, it is .4 mi. to another spur trail (2.8 mi.) leading .1 mi. west (right) to Spruce Peak Shelter.
Continuing south from the shelter spur trail, the trail passes west of a summit (3.2 mi.) and proceeds southerly until reaching and descending a rock staircase to Rootville Road (4.9 mi.) and the spur trail leading 50 yds. to Prospect Rock. From here, the Rootville Road continues downhill 1.8 mi. to a public road, which leads 0.2 mi. to VT 11 and 30, 1.8 mi. east of Manchester Center.
Expect to return the same way, back over all 4.9 miles of the trail. If you want to make your own arrangements to go out the Rootville Road, that's your affair.