All Aboard Guide to the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail the Milk Train! The St. Albans parking area is on the old railroad bed Historic Sheldon River Rapids Agricultural Changes – Fields, barns, and silos are a Postcard Perfect Near mile 24, the trail heads off into located at the intersection of US 7/Main Street and VT familiar part of the Franklin County landscape. The dairy the countryside through sunny fields, SEGMENT DESCRIPTIONS Miles 5 - 9 Miles 9 - 12 105, just north of the St. Albans Messenger building. industry is a major part of our economy. Dairy farms Miles 17- 22 shaded forests, and sweet-smelling St. Albans to Sheldon Junction This is a busy intersection, and trail users are advised The trail parallels Sweet Hollow Road The trail hugs the Missisquoi River. produce milk for people to drink. Agriculture-related The landscape returns to postcard- pines. Enjoy the historic railroad trestle Open, quiet farmland from St. Albans to Green’s to use caution as they approach. The parking area and travels through the village of VT 105 can be a noisy neighbor at times, industries convert milk into cream cheese, cheddar cheese, perfect views of Missisquoi River rapids, over the Missisquoi River near mile Corners. Beautiful wetlands and pines with some entrance is marked with a green and yellow MVRT sign. Sheldon Springs. South of the village, but scenic views of the Missisquoi River yogurt, and yogurt-based beverages. Although the number Jay Peak, and adjacent farms. This is a 23.5. Stop for a while and enjoy the residential areas from Green’s Corners to Sheldon A bicycle is mounted on a post near the sign. Trailer trail users must cross VT 105. Always use rapids and Jay Peak make you forget the of farms has steadily declined during the last 20 years, the relaxed and spectacular section for those sound of rippling water. This section is an Springs. Few road crossings, mostly of gravel roads. parking is available. extra caution on VT 105. Services are available in the noise. Artists often use this segment of the trail to paint remaining farms have become larger, in both acreage and who like a varied landscape, and a beautiful segment for excellent choice for birders. Bring your binoculars and look village along VT 105. Snowmobiles are not permitted on landscapes. In June, colorful wildflowers line the trail. The trail travels through cultivated fields and pasture number of cattle. You’ll also find orchards and sheep, goat, fall foliage viewing. Use caution when crossing VT 105. for plovers in the wetland near mile 25. Sheldon Junction to Enosburg Falls Vermont roadways. North of the village, the trail ducks into land in this segment. Farm crossings are an historic part Private homes abut the trail near mile 10. Please stay and vegetable farms in Franklin County. Farms keep our While the trail grade is minimal, you may notice its a sweet-smelling pine forest. The trail parallels the Missisquoi River offering scenic of the trail’s rural experience – watch your step or walk on the trail and respect the privacy and property of trail hills and valleys open and encourage visitors to travel to effects if you are cycling east. Although the trail looks flat, Richford Loop■E Start views of river rapids, quiet pools, working farms, and Sheldon acquired considerable importance as a neighbors. Use extra caution when crossing VT 105. our beautiful countryside. this section requires steady pedaling to keep you moving. your bicycle at these crossings to avoid mud splatters and Mile 25 to Trail End at Troy Street Jay Peak. Look for fox, deer, and other wildlife. Three cow plops. At Green’s Corners, trail users must cross VT summer resort in the 1800s due to the town’s abundance Snowmobiles can connect to the VAST system near For cyclists heading west, you'll have a nice coasting ride crossings of VT 105. 105. A creamery was once located on the land across of mineral springs. Springwater was bottled for distribution mile 11.3. Enosburg Falls into Enosburg Falls. Early settlers in Richford were wilderness pioneers who smuggled Enosburg Falls to Richford from the cemetery, which you can explore to find hidden and was marketed as a remedy for cancer, scrofula, and Travelers heading north have a spectacular view of Jay Miles 16 -17 products to Canada as their principal pieces of Vermont history. other diseases of the blood. Large hotels, some Peak, an historic iron bridge, and adjacent farmland. The trail parallels the Missisquoi River with Corn Alley Enosburg Falls was a unique community livelihood in the early 1800s. The arrival containing up to 100 private rooms, were erected Northbound users can also see the foundation of a former outstanding views. The landscape offers a nice mix Miles 12- 16 in the 1800s due in part to Dr. Kendall of the railroad in the late 1800s opened world markets throughout the town and “furnished in a style of first class power station dam in the Missisquoi River near of sunny farmland, shaded forests, and quiet Swanton Wetlands and his Spavin Cure medicinal recipes. for the sale of virgin mountain timber and local produce. city hotels.” (Vermont Historical Magazine). Sheldon In summers, this segment can be Samsonville. The dam once powered several mills and an wetlands. Good segment for bird watchers. Multiple Miles 3 -5 Bone spavin is a bony growth within the Social and economic ties to Canada continue today as Springs became a mill town in 1894 when Joseph Shipley described as “corn alley” because the electric plant. Its breached remains offer challenging rapids crossings of VT 105. lower hock (ankle) joint of horse or cattle. It is caused by Richford’s residents strive to create a community with Trees, hills, and wetlands fill the began producing ground wood pulp at the Missisquoi Mill. trail is lined by rows of corn on both for experienced river paddlers along the Northern Forest osteoarthritis or the final phase of degenerative joint economic opportunities and strong local pride. Please thank our local business owners for their landscape on this section of the trail. The ownership of the mill has changed throughout the sides. Franklin County farmers grow corn Canoe Trail, a 740-mile water trail tracing historic Native disease. In the 1870s, Dr. B.J. Kendall’s cure for horse generosity in providing restrooms, water, and other Always stay on the trail and respect the years, but the mill itself remains a stable employer for the and other grains for silage to feed cattle. Silage is any American travel routes across New York, Vermont, Québec, The Town hosts concerts and festivals, such as Old spavin and the completion of the Missisquoi Valley Railroad services that benefit trail users! privacy of trail neighbors. Snowmobiles can community. Housing originally built for mill workers is variety of fermented, coarsely chopped grain. It provides New Hampshire, and Maine. The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail Home Days and Hometown Harvest. The Town is currently propelled the sleepy village of Enosburg Falls into a center travel to Highgate using VAST 207 near mile 5. This is a readily identifiable in Sheldon Springs along VT 105 due a nutritious feed for livestock. Silage is stored in concrete- parallels the Canoe Trail along the Missisquoi River through working to extend the trail into the village, and eventually for business and residential development. beautiful segment for viewing fall foliage. to its repetition of design. lined bins or in fields under long, plastic-tarped rows. Franklin County. to the Canadian border. For now, cyclists can make an St. Albans – Wetlands (Swamps, Marshes, Bogs, etc.) – Wetlands refer After Sheldon Springs, the landscape is filled with This sunny section provides a relaxed ride. During In the 1900s and continuing today, the dairy industry on-road connection to Canada following directions to la to areas where water is a controlling factor in the cultivated fields and pastureland. Enjoy a scenic view of haying, generally early July, you may be lucky enough to became very important. Enosburgh became known as Birder’s Pleasure Route verte. The Rail City development of plant and animal communities. Franklin the Missisquoi River from the historic railroad bridge in see the hay baler at work around mile 15.5. This dynamic the “Dairy Capital of the World” with a bustling and Mile 0 County is full of wetlands. In the past, some were modified Sheldon Junction or a rest stop at the picnic table. Hidden machine spins and rotates large round hay bales while vibrant downtown known as Enosburg Falls. Since 1956, Miles 22 - 25 Richford Inset Scale 1 inch = 1/3 mile Known as “Rail City,” St. Albans has to increase agricultural productivity. Now, farms rely on in the grass east of the railroad bridge and across from encasing them in white plastic. The plastic protects the the annual “June Dairy Days” festival has celebrated The first part of this section provides been home to the New England Central wetlands to filter runoff and maintain local water quality. Bourdeau Brothers business is the railroad junction for bales from winter weather for outside storage. Be sure to Enosburgh’s agricultural heritage. Held the first weekend a relaxed ride through an agricultural which this small village was named. stay on the trail, especially if the baler is at work. Safety in June, the festival provides activities for all ages, Railroad for more than 100 years. A Working Wildlife Habitat – Wetlands landscape. Use extra caution when first! Use extra caution when crossing VT 105 west of including live music, cow paddy bingo, garden tractor pulls, It has a vibrant downtown that reflects the railroad’s are great places for converting sunshine The Central Vermont Railway (the Rail Trail) transported crossing VT 105 on the east side of East Enosburg Falls. the “Milk Run” footrace, and a parade. influence. Visit downtown to shop at local businesses, into food. They support a wide variety of milk and other agricultural products from Richford to St. Berkshire. Cyclists who want to extend their trip can leave tour Taylor Park or the St. Albans Historical Museum, and plants that sustain wildlife. Acre for Albans. In Sheldon Junction, it crossed the St. Johnsbury the trail with a choice of on-road loops to Montgomery and take a self-guided walk. The city hosts frequent festivals acre, wetlands produce more wildlife – and Lake Champlain Railway, which extended from Montgomery Center. and special events, including the Vermont Maple Festival in numbers and variety – and more plant Swanton to New Hampshire. The State of Vermont and its in April, Christmas in Taylor Park, and a Saturday farmer’s growth than any other habitat. Wildlife, like partners are currently working to convert the abandoned market (May-Oct.) in Taylor Park. the Canada goose, wood duck, great blue heron, muskrat, St. Johnsbury line into a rail trail as well (future Lamoille beaver, and bullfrog, depend on the dense vegetation in Valley Rail Trail). A Feast of Farmland wetlands to build homes and hide from predators. Other wildlife, like black bear, moose, deer, and marsh hawks, Miles 0 -3 use wetlands for a part of their life cycle or during certain Standing in the former tracks of the times of the year. Central Vermont Railway, the Missisquoi Share the Trail with Wildlife – Listen for Valley Rail Trail continues an historic the musical sounds of songbirds in link between St. Albans, Sheldon, the forest and frogs in the wetlands Enosburgh, East Berkshire, and Richford. Farm-to-village along this section of the trail. commerce and international trade flowed through the Watch for chipmunks darting corridor along a plank road in the late 1800s. It continued across the trail and turtles by rail until a derailment permanently closed the route warming themselves on rocks. in 1984. Small snakes enjoy sunning themselves on the The State of Vermont and local citizens began trail in open areas. They are not poisonous. We converting the corridor to a multi-use trail in the early hope you’ll quietly enjoy their company and 1990s. Many traces of the railroad “Milk Run” days still share the trail with all wildlife. exist along the trail for you to discover, including train stations, rail sidings, and creamery foundations.

Civil War Invades Vermont Train Derailment Fenian Raids Lake Carmi State Park On October 19, 1864, 22 Closes Track! After the Civil War in 1866 and Lake Carmi is the fourth largest St. Albans Inset Scale 1 inch = 1/4 mile Confederate agents, dressed in The Central Vermont Railway again in 1870, Irish patriots natural lake entirely within civilian clothes, robbed three (now New England Central attempted to invade Canada and Vermont. It is 7.5 miles around, banks in St. Albans. Their take Railroad) has had its force Britain to negotiate the averages about 20 feet deep, was $200,000. They fled across headquarters in St. Albans for over independence of Ireland. In 1870, and is 33 feet at its deepest the border to Montreal on stolen 100 years. The Richford Branch of the they were repulsed between Franklin point. Water from the lake drains horses. The Canadian government arrested the railway (the Trail) connected to Canada, shipping and Cook’s Corners. Fenians gathered in St. Albans north into Quebec’s Pike River, then south into Lake raiders and returned the money, but their actions did boxcars of Blue Seal feed and farm-fresh milk in both and marched via Sheldon to the border. Fenian is a Champlain. The 588-acre State Park includes more not calm the fears or reduce the anger of the directions. In June 1984, a derailment on the trestle term used since the 1850s for Irish nationalists who than two miles of lake frontage on Lake Carmi. northern states. American troops were ordered to in Sheldon Junction left a locomotive dangling over oppose British rule in Ireland. They were stopped by Facilities include boat rentals, boating, camping, pursue the raiders into Canada and wipe them out. water and severely damaged one trestle span. The Canadian arms and U.S. authorities. The threat of fishing, hiking, picnicking, playground, and swimming. This would have violated Canadian neutrality and derailment, combined with declining rail traffic, the Fenians encouraged support for the Vermont State Parks offers a one-night reservation possibly started a war. President Lincoln revoked the contributed to the permanent closure of the railway. Confederation Movement in Canada. A plaque on the policy for cyclists by advanced registration only. For order, realizing that a Canadian-American conflict VT 105 bridge in Sheldon Junction notes the Raids’ more information, contact them at (802) 879-5674. would only serve to help the South. Loop ■B East Sheldon – 23.2 miles place in Vermont history. Lake Carmi Bog Natural Area East Sheldon loop is mostly paved with great views of the Missisquoi River, surrounding farm land, and Jay Peak. This large, 140-acre peat bog It also passes several areas of historic significance. At 1.4 dominated by black spruce and On-Road Loops miles is a marker dedicated to Colonel Elisha Sheldon tamarack has an understory of (1741-1805) for whom the town of Sheldon is named. Col. typical bog plants. There is a Loop ■D Mineral Brook – 17.7 miles Loop ■A Morses Line – 32.2 miles Sheldon was commissioned by General George Washington nearby cattail marsh, meadow, and forest. Lake Carmi Bog is a Morses Line loop travels through Franklin County farmland in 1776 to raise a regiment of cavalry (the 2nd Continental Mineral Brook loop travels over mostly unpaved roads, designated State Natural Area. and almost into Canada. It is mostly on paved roads, with Light Dragoons) which served during the Revolutionary War. past active farms in northern Franklin County and the great views of Lake Carmi, Jay Peak, and Pinnacle Peak. His house still stands on the hill above the marker. beautiful Mineral Brook area with its woods, fields, and marshes. There are wonderful views of Lake Carmi and Jay The best view of Lake Carmi can be seen at mile 2.6 with At mile 1.7 is a marker commemorating the site of Civil Peak. The Vaillancourt Orchard, located at mile 1.7, has a Pinnacle Peak in Quebec visible beyond the lake. Another War action on October 19, 1864, involving a 22-man farm stand and picnic area. The route also passes the good view of Pinnacle Peak is from mile 11.0. Jay Peak Confederate detachment on their retreat to Canada after an South Franklin Cemetery with gravestones dating back as can be admired from Cassidy Rd. (mile 13.0). This route attack on St. Albans (referred to as the St. Albans Raid). ■ – 15.3 miles early as 1813 and maple trees easily measuring three passes through the villages of Franklin and Highgate Also at this site, a covered bridge was set on fire but saved Loop C Lake Carmi feet in diameter. Loop ■E North Branch – 7.1 miles Center. by alert citizens. Lake Carmi loop is mostly paved and passes through beautiful countryside with wonderful views of Lake Carmi North Branch loop is an easy ride on both paved and Mile Travel Directions (R=Right, L=Left) This route passes through the village of Sheldon. Mile Travel Directions (R=Right, L=Left) and Jay Peak. The many hills are easy and gradual. At mile unpaved surfaces. There are wonderful views of the North 0.0 MVRT at intersection with State Park Rd./Rt. 236 0.0 Begin at MVRT parking area on Kane Rd. in North Mile Travel Directions (R=Right, L=Left) 2.0 the Lake comes into view with the Jay Peak ski area Branch of the Missisquoi River and the mountains in the Sheldon (approximately mile 11.3). Facing Kane (approximately mile 13.5). Head north on State area. The route passes through Richford’s village center, 0.0 Begin at MVRT intersection with VT 105 just west of tram house visible to the east about 20 miles away. The Rd, turn R (heading N) on Kane Rd., cross Rt. 105 Park Rd./Rt. 236. over some moderate hills, and follows the river (on your VT 105 bridge over the Missisquoi River in Sheldon route passes Lake Carmi’s public access area at mile 6.8. (Kane Rd. becomes Rt. 120) left) along Marvin Rd. where great blue herons and the Junction (approximately mile 8.5). Facing towards Lake Carmi State Park offers seasonal camping and a 0.1 R on Gilman Rd. occasional kingfisher can be seen. 5.5 L on Morses Line Rd. (Rt. 235 N.) St. Albans (away from river), turn L onto VT 105 beach; its entrance is located at mile 10.5. 5.5 L on Rt 108 N. Map Symbol Legend Mile Travel Directions (R=Right, L=Left) 9.4 L on Gore Rd./Rt. 207 S. 0.1 L on Main St. and head up the hill Mile Travel Directions (R= Right, L=Left) 6.1 R on Berkshire Center Rd. 0.0 MVRT trailhead on Troy St., Richford. Facing Troy 13.0 L on Cassidy Rd. 1.6 L on Bridge St. 0.0 Begin at MVRT parking area on Kane Rd. in North Convenience Store Picnic Table Maps Available Trail Mile Marker 6.4 R on Mineral Brook Rd. St., turn L on Troy St. heading towards the village Sheldon (approximately mile 11.3). Facing Kane 14.3 R on Franklin Rd. 10.1 L on W. Enosburg Rd./Rt. 108 N. 8.6 L on Water Tower Rd. center Rd, turn R (heading N) on Kane Rd., cross Rt. 105 Ice Cream Telephone Parking Farm Crossing 16.1 R on Rt. 78 10.6 R on Howrigan Rd. (Kane Rd. becomes Rt. 120) 9.2 R on Reservoir Rd. 0.4 R on Main St./Rt. 139

Deli Information Air River Access 17.8 L on Rt. 207 S. 12.1 L on Stonehouse Rd. 3.7 R on Riley Rd. 11.6 R on Reservoir Rd. 0.7 L on River St. 19.1 L on Cook Rd. 13.0 L on Hayes Farm Rd. 5.8 R on Lake Rd./Rt. 120 12.9 L on Water Tower Rd. 1.1 L on North Branch Rd. Restaurant Bench Gasoline ATM Machine 23.1 L on Viens Rd. 13.5 R on W. Enosburg Rd./Rt. 108 N. 7.5 R on Dewing Rd. 14.3 R on Rt. 105 2.1 L on Marvin Rd. Railroad Lodging Bicycle Rack Snowmobile Repair 24.1 R on Rt. 105 13.8 R on Main St., Enosburg Falls 8.4 R on State Park Rd./Rt. 236 14.4 L on Pleasant St. 4.7 Cross Rt. 105 (road now called River Rd.) VAST Trail 24.2 MVRT at Green’s Corners. Turn L onto trail. 14.2 L on MVRT near Depot St. 13.3 R on MVRT 14.7 R on MVRT near Depot St. 4.7 L on MVRT Restroom Water Bicycle Repair Supplies MVRT Trail

32.2 North Sheldon parking area. 23.2 MVRT at VT 105 in Sheldon Junction 15.3 MVRT parking area on Kane Rd. in North Sheldon 17.7 MVRT at intersection with State Park Rd./Rt. 236 7.1 MVRT trailhead on Troy St. in Richford INC. DESIGN: KEHOE+KEHOE DESIGN ASSOCIATES, (R=Right, L=Left) turn L on Troy St./VT 105 turn L on Troy 139 (Catholic Church is on L) St. R on VT 139/ Province Turn La Route vertelook for signs. VAST snowmobile trail locations may change. snowmobile trail locations may VAST Off-trail bicycle loops are chosen, designated Off-trail bicycle loops are chosen, change. trail locations may snowmobile VAST MVRT cyclists can connect with La Route MVRT cyclists can connect Maintenance Assessment. The TMA includes and a local club. Getting membership in VAST a TMA is usually best done in the area where can you intend to do your trail riding. VAST you with local club information.provide Snowmobiles are not permitted on streets and in Vermont. highways for current information at (802)Call VAST 229- 0005. Association of Snow Travelers, Contact: Vermont Phone: VT 05601, P.O. Montpelier, Box 839, (802) org. http://www.vtvast. Web: 229-0005, Amtrak Phone: 800-USA-RAIL Email: [email protected] http://www.amtrak.com Web: Greyhound Phone: 800-231-2222 http://www.greyhound.com Web: Transit Vermont VT 05401 Burlington, 106 Main Street, Phone: (802)862-9671 www.vermonttransit.com Web: Disclaimer inherent and not Users assume all risks, in the use of this Guide. The Vermont inherent, Department Vermont Agency of Transportation, Northwest and Recreation, Parks of Forests, its member Regional Planning Commission, Rail Trail Northwest Vermont municipalities, and other affiliated organizations and Council, and all liability on their individuals disclaim any part or injuries to persons for damages or property occur. they should are are popular, and/or signed because: they continuous routes to provide preferred, are scenic, are lightly traveled, destinations, or possess more room for cars and bikes, have a combination of these attributes. No suggestion is given that these routes are safer than other roadways. for current information at (802)Call VAST 229- 0005. La Route Verte La Route ridersMVRT bicycle also connect to La can a 3,400-kilometerRoute verte, bicycle network of the Province throughout which winds its way Canada. Through the efforts of Vélo Québec, La Route government, Québec and the Québec verte paths, (the green route) uses separated and quiet country shoulders, roads to link paved municipalities. regions and the province’s station on VT verte at the Canadian custom’s 139 in Richford. Mile Directions Travel 0.0 Begin at the trail entry the street, gates. Facing 0.45 R on VT Intersection 139. Turn with VT 105 & VT 0.65 Missisquoi River Bridge over 0.75 Intersection St./VT 139. with River St./Province 1.32.0 Plant on L Blue Seal Feed 2.1 US Customs station on L Canadian Customs station. Continue on 139 and 1251 Rachel Street East, Québec, Contact: Vélo Phone: H2J 2J9, Canada Montréal (Québec), (514)521-8356 E-mail: or 1-800-567-8356, [email protected]. (English and French http://www.velo/qc/ca. Web: languages), (R=Right, L=Left) turn R on Seymour Rd. turn R on Seymour Champlain Bikeways This is the Lake Albans Bay. route. MVRT cyclists can connect to Bikeways from to Bikeways MVRT cyclists can connect To snowmobile in Vermont, riders must snowmobile in Vermont, To As partnetwork of a larger bicycle as known Valley the Missisquoi Champlain Bikeways, Lake to a 350-mile is linked route around Rail Trail and York, New Champlain in Vermont, Lake has Champlain Bikeways Quebec. Lake theme toursdeveloped and on existing roads historypaths based on local and natural support Champlain resources. We Lake Bikeways. the St. Albans parking area. Mile Directions Travel 0.0 Begin at trail entry the parking area, gates. Facing 0.15 L on US 7 Turn 0.65 St. (traffic light) Newton R on Lower Turn 0.12tracks) RR St. (before L on Federal Turn 0.60.85 St./VT 36 R on Lake Turn Intersection 36 in St. with Georgia Shore Rd./VT Champlain Bikeways Contact: Lake Motion Trailside c/o Local Clearinghouse, VT Burlington, 1 Steele Street #103, Center, (802) Phone/Fax: 05401, Email: 652-2453, Web: [email protected], http://www.champlainbikeways.org. for a charge from A map of the route is available Northern Cartographics, 4050 Williston Rd., Phone: (802) VT 05403, South Burlington, 860- Email: [email protected]. 2886, Snowmobile riders on the MVRT can link to a 5,000-mile state-wide snowmobile network the local clubs of and maintained by developed Association of Snow Travelers the Vermont system links to trails in Canada, VAST’s (VAST). and Massachusetts. York, New Hampshire, New forms the spine Rail Trail The Missisquoi Valley County network. of the Franklin purchase a trail pass for their legally registered snowmobile through a local club. Vermont snow- recognizes all valid state and provincial mobile registrations. The trail pass system (adopted in 1998) is called a TMA or Trail Sources for Information Visitor Information County Regional Chamber of Commerce Franklin 2 North Suite 101 Main Street, VT 05478 St. Albans, Phone: (802)524-2444 E-mail: [email protected] http://www.stalbanschamber.com Web: the Future (SAFF) St. Albans for 100 NorthCity Hall, Main Street VT 05478 St. Albans, Phone: (802)524-1500 Email: [email protected] http://www.stalbansvt.info Web: and Marketing Dept. of Tourism Vermont Street 6 Baldwin VT 05633-1301 Montpelier, or 800-837-6668 Phone: 800-Vermont Email: [email protected] http://www.travel-vermont.com Web: Conservancy Rails-to-Trails 10th Floor NW, 1100 17th Street, DC 20036 Washington, Phone: (202) 331-9696 http://www.railtrails.org Web: Transportation Network Public Transit Northwest Vermont 319 South Main Street VT 05478 St. Albans, Phone: (802) 527-2181 BICYCLING AND WALKING OPPORTUNITIES AND WALKING BICYCLING Bikeways Champlain Lake LINKS SNOWMOBILE (VAST) Association of Snow Travelers Vermont

Northwest Vermont Rail Trail Council Trail Rail Northwest Vermont hallmark enthusiasm is the of the Volunteer a non-profit Council, Rail Trail Northwest Vermont organization that represents communities along and local businesses. The trail users, the trail, assists Council advises the State on trail issues, trail improvements. and helps make trail users, It also raises funds for small maintenance benches and picnic like projects and amenities, future tables. Please help us ensure the Trail’s a trail volunteer or making a becoming by contribution to trail projects. Visit site at our web us at: Northwest or contact www.mvrailtrail.org c/o NW Regional Council, Rail Trail Vermont St. Street, 155 Lake Planning Commission, VT 05478. Contributions are tax Albans, deductible under Section 501(a) of the Internal Code. Revenue About This Guide the member funded by This guide was municipalities of the Northwest Regional Planning Commission with grants from the and Vermont Agency of Transportation Vermont and Recreation. Parks, Department of Forests, Council Rail Trail The Northwest Vermont local assistance. The guide is provided distributed free of charge. contact: additional copies, For Northwest Regional Planning Commission Street 155 Lake VT 05478 St. Albans, Phone: (802) 524-5958 Email: [email protected] www.mvrailtrail.com Web: Make A Connection! A Make County Franklin Guide Bicycling and Walking can explore Franklin Visitors to the Rail Trail cycling opportunities. and other walking County’s opportunitiesA guide to bicycling and walking in through the Northwestthe County is available Regional Planning Commission and Lake This double-sided guide Champlain Bikeways. map that shows the includes a highway-style and on-road trails, tours, location of walking route. cycling routes and descriptions of each such as Cyclists can explore themed routes, and Bridges,” “Covered “International Affairs,” can explore and hikers Walkers “Ship to Shore.” Horseshoe Barn Road and the Missisquoi of National Wildlife Refuge. The guide is free charge. Contact: Northwest Regional Planning St. Albans, Street, 155 Lake Commission, 524-5958, Phone: (802) VT 05478, Email: [email protected], (802) 527-2948, Fax: http://www.nrpcvt.com. Web:

of Transportation of & Vermont Agency Agency Vermont &

– Open Planning Commission Commission Planning

– Rail Trail – Rail –

Northwest Regional Northwest © Copyright 2007 Copyright © – Mayhew’s Corner – Mayhew’s – Dick & Pam’s Market and – Dick & Pam’s – Wetherby’s Quick Stop, South Quick Stop, – Wetherby’s – Saint’s Quick Stop and JD’s – Saint’s – The Pinnacle Peddler, Wetherby’s, Wetherby’s, – The Pinnacle Peddler, – Gas, travel maps, and an ATM are and an ATM maps, travel – Gas, – Behind Wetherby’s Quick Stop, and across Quick Stop, – Behind Wetherby’s – JD’s Pub serves lunch and dinner. – JD’s River Street House Riverside Pub, – Claude’s – Gas, air, and travel maps are available at maps are available and travel air, – Gas, – The Crossing on VT 139 as well as Grey Gables as Grey – The Crossing on VT 139 as well – A municipal lot on the street behind Mayhew’s – Benches are located near mile 22.4, 22.7 and – Benches are located near mile 22.4, available at Dick & Pam’s Market and at Saint’s Quick Stop. Market and at Saint’s at Dick & Pam’s available access to the Missisquoi River. Both have Wetherby’s Quick Stop, South Main Quick Stop, and the South Main Quick Stop, Quick Stop, Wetherby’s Corner Store on VT 139 has Mayhew’s Pinnacle Peddler. an in-store have and Mayhew’s maps. Wetherby’s travel has a small selection of accessories for Wetherby’s ATM. snowmobiles and bicycle repair. Pub have opened their restrooms to trail users opened their restrooms and fill Pub have a Pub have Quick Stop and JD’s bottles. Saint’s water Quick Saint’s Countrypublic telephone. The Pond Store, bottles. will fill water and Victorian Touch Stop, 24.4. the Pink Lady, and Mayhew’s have picnic tables. A bench is have and Mayhew’s the Pink Lady, located near mile 25.3. Corner Store accommodates trailers. Wetherby’s Quick Corner trailers. Store accommodates Wetherby’s (trailers) on Stop on Main Street and the Pinnacle Peddler block store VT 105 will share their parking (please don’t customers). Restrooms, Phone, Water Phone, Restrooms, Snowmobile and Bicycle Repair ATM, Maps, Air, Gas, Supplies Lodging River Access Air, Snowmobile Repair, Bicycle Repair Supplies Repair Bicycle Repair, Snowmobile Air, East Berkshire (Mile 21.75) Information Rack, Bicycle Table, Picnic Parking, Restaurant Bicycle and Ice Cream, Deli, Store, Convenience Snowmobile Repair Supplies Water Phone, Restrooms, ATM Maps, Gas, Pleasure (Miles 22Birder’s - 25) Water Restrooms, Ice Cream, Restaurant, Parking, Bench Street) End at Troy Richford (Mile 25 to Trail Parking Bench Picnic Table, Restaurant Ice Cream Deli, Store, Convenience Store on VT 139, Wetherby’s Quick Stop on Main Street, Wetherby’s Store on VT 139, items on VT 105 sell convenience and the Pinnacle Peddler South Main Quick Stop sells deli sandwiches. and make sells creemees. The Pinnacle items. Mayhew’s convenience also has health has hard ice cream. The Peddler Peddler foods and a country store. Mansion, a bed–and-breakfast on River Street Mansion, A parking area is currently in East development under expected The Berkshire Victorian along the trail near Touch. will have it date of construction When completed, is 2008. information. and trail Dick & bicycle rack, a picnic table, Saint’s Country the Pond 118), Store (on VT Market, Pam’s opened their parking for Pub have and JD’s Quick Stop, trail users. Sales & ServiceSales repairs. make to air and equipment has in summer only, the Pine Cone Snack Bar has opened its the Pine Cone in summer only, and bottles, fills water parking and restrooms to trail users, sells ice cream and creemees. Main Quick Stop, and Claude’s Pub make their restrooms, Pub make and Claude’s Main Quick Stop, on VT 139 fills Mayhew’s available. and water telephone, House of bottles and has telephones. The Crossing, water bottles and have fill water and the Pinnacle Peddler Pizza, restrooms. The Pink Lady on Main Street has restrooms. of Pizza, and The Crossing on VT 139. Golden Wok on Main and The Crossing on VT 139. Golden Wok of Pizza, Street. the street from Grey Gables in Davis Park. Gables in Davis the street from Grey Saint’s Quick Stop make deli sandwiches and sell deli sandwiches Quick Stop make Saint’s Country items. The Pond convenience Store (summer only) Quick Stop sells small Saint’s sells snacks and beverages. and snowmobiles. repair items for bicycles – The Kane – BruceKing’s – Mrs. – Park Side Grill has – Park – The Dairy Center and – The Abbey Restaurant offers – The Abbey its – Enosburg Mobil makes – Benches are located near mile 18.5 – Restaurant and lodging are available – Enosburg Rentals on Pleasant Street – During warm weather, you can enjoy weather, – During warm – Bruce King’s has an air pump available – Bruce King’s – Gas, travel maps, and an air pump are maps, travel – Gas, – Mrs. Bubba’s has access to the Missisquoi – Mrs. Bubba’s – A picnic table is located near mile 12.5. – The Abbey Restaurant is between VT 105 and Restaurant is between – The Abbey Enosburg House of Side Grill, – Downtown: Park – The Sheldon Casino is next to the trail on – The Sheldon Casino is – The Somerset Inn is located on Depot Street. – Enosburg Rentals (Pleasant Street) and the – The Abbey Restaurant permits trail users– The Abbey to park

the trail near mile 10.75. and the Café, Halvy’s Café, Leon’s Mandarin Garden, Pizza, Somerset The Enosburg Country Inn on Depot Street. Club is north of downtown on VT 105. Casino Road and is open for Sunday brunch. for Sunday Casino Road and is open Rail Trail Sales & Service are located on VT 105 east of Rail Trail mile 19. Check with businesses before parking your car. Road parking area has an information kiosk, bench, picnic bench, Road parking area has an information kiosk, Restaurant has a bicycle and bicycle rack. The Abbey table, rack and picnic table. deli items. Uncle Floyd’s sells convenience items and ice sells convenience deli items. Uncle Floyd’s to go; sandwiches Side Grill make and Park cream. Halvy’s sells ice cream in bowls. The Udder Delight on Main Halvy’s Street sells ice cream and creemees during the summer. items and ice cream. Enosburg Mobil has convenience during business hours. Mrs. Bubba’s has travel maps for maps has travel hours.during business Mrs. Bubba’s an ATM. purchase and Auto Sales sells small repair items for snowmobiles. repair items sells small Auto Sales Somerset Inn have opened their parking opened their Somerset areas to trail Inn have along the trail on Depot Street. users. is available Parking The Enosburg Rentals’ lot accommodates trailers. in their lot (accommodates trailers). For courtesy, please courtesy, trailers).in their lot (accommodates For Road off Kane park is also available side. Parking off to the parkingnext to the trail. State-owned areas are available VT 105 (trailers)¼-mile east of the trail on and off Kane River (trailers).Road across the Missisquoi Information, Picnic Table, Bicycle Rack, Bench Bicycle Rack, Picnic Table, Information, Restaurant Water Phone, Restrooms, (Miles 12Corn Alley - 16) Picnic Table (Miles 16Enosburg Falls - 17) Parking Bench Information, Restaurant Ice Cream Deli, Store, Convenience Water Phone, Restrooms, Air Maps, Gas, Lodging Snowmobile Repair repairs snowmobiles. (Miles 17 Perfect Postcard - 22) Water Phone, Restrooms, Parking, Bicycle Rack Bench, Lodging Restaurant, Snowmobile Repair, Bicycle Repair Supplies Repair Bicycle Repair, Snowmobile Picnic Table Water, Information, Restrooms, ATM Maps, Air, Restaurant River Access 9River Rapids (Miles - 12) Parking seeing beautiful flower gardens at a house west of the gardens at a house west seeing beautiful flower information in the sign-in box at the is located village. Trail A bench is located near mile 16.4. A picnic table driveway. is located near mile 16.6. Berkson Farms is a Bed and Breakfast located on VT 108, Berkson Farms north of downtown. Bubba’s offers water for filling bottles, makes their makes bottles, for filling offers water Bubba’s and permits trail users to to trail users, restrooms available is located on the west tables. A picnic table use its picnic 8.75. Mrs. at approximately mile side of the bridge Bubba’s information. has travel and just after mile 20. The Dairy Center has a bicycle rack. available at Larose’s and Uncle Floyd’s. Enosburg Rentals and Uncle Floyd’s. at Larose’s available maps for sale, has an air pump. Enosburg Mobil has travel and an air pump. gas, water for filling bottles and makes its restrooms and bottles and makes for filling water to trail users. telephone available to trail users and has a available restrooms and water public telephone. The Enosburg Country Larose’s, Club, Enosburg House of Pizza, Mandarin Gardens, Café, Halvy’s and Enosburg Rentals (on Somerset Inn, Cafe, Leon’s available. their restrooms and water Pleasant Street) make bottles. will fill water Side Grill and Uncle Floyd’s Park A public telephone is located on Main Street in front of the and at the Enosburg CountryEnosburg House of Pizza, Club. Enosburg Rentals allows trail users access to their business phone. at The Dairy Center. River. River.

Fifth Edition Fifth Our Agricultural Heritage! Agricultural Our

– Benches,

Communities: Come Enjoy Enjoy Come Communities:

Farms, Forests, Fields, and Fields, Forests, Farms,

– Go-Go Mart, south – The Sheldon Mini Quick – Mrs. Bubba’s Train! Milk the Aboard All – The Sheldon Mini Mart has Trail Rail – Pauline’s makes its restrooms, its makes – Pauline’s – Trail information is available in information is available – Trail – Go-Go Mart, Nana’s Restaurant, – Go-Go Mart, Nana’s

– Gas, travel maps, an air pump, and an air pump, maps, travel – Gas, maps are available – Gas and travel

– Nana’s Restaurant and Zippy’s Snack Bar and Zippy’s Restaurant – Nana’s Valley Missisquoi – Devyn’s Restaurant & Creemee Stand is on – Devyn’s

– An informal parking area is located on state- – A trail parking area is located at mile marker 9; – The trailhead parking– The trailhead is on the old railroad area ud othe to Guide VT 105. the sign-in box at the cemetery near mile 3.3. A picnic table is located near mile 4.5. picnic tables, a bicycle rack, and trail information are a bicycle rack, picnic tables, parkinglocated at the trailhead area in St. Albans. Picnic and the reststop before at Zippy’s tables are also located mile 1. of the parking entrance on US 7, sells deli sandwiches, of the parking entrance on US 7, Treats, and ice cream products. Toby’s items, convenience Fitness Center on US 7 near the parking area at Duke’s sell ice cream. and Zippy’s entrance, items. Quick Stop sell convenience Mart and Pauline’s and sell ice deli sandwiches make and Devyn’s Pauline’s cream. and sells deli sandwiches Stop on VT 105 makes items and creemees. convenience a bicycle rack. Devyn’s has picnic tables. a bicycle rack. Devyn’s ATM machine are available at Go-Go-Mart. machine are available ATM owned property across from the cemetery on VT 105. has an and the Sheldon Mini Mart. Pauline’s at Pauline’s Quick Stop air pump. The Sheldon Mini Mart and Pauline’s banking. ATM have please do not block traffic to adjacent businesses. bed located at the intersectionbed located Street and VT of US 7/Main just north Albans Messenger building.105, of the St. is Parking parking and picnic tables are available. Trailer Park before mile 1 on Franklin also located at the reststop Road. West Restaurants Ice Cream Deli, Store, Convenience Phone Water, Restroom, ATM Air, Maps, Gas, (Miles 3Wetlands Swanton - 5) Parking Picnic Table Information, Historic Sheldon (Miles 5 - 9) Sheldon Springs (Mile 7.5) Restaurant Ice Cream Deli, Store, Convenience Water Phone, Restrooms, Picnic Table Bicycle Rack, ATM Air, Maps, Gas, Sheldon Junction (Mile 9.0) Parking Ice Cream Deli, Store, Convenience Service Information (Mile 0) Rail City – The St. Albans variety of services. Albans has an excellent The City of St. site for Chamber web County Regional Visit the Franklin more information on lodging and other services. (Miles 0 of Farmland A Feast - 3) Parking Bicycle Rack Picnic Table, Bench, Information, public telephone, and water available to trail users. The available and water public telephone, Sheldon Mini Mart bottles and allows trail will fill water bottles will fill water users access to its restrooms. Devyn’s to trail users. its restrooms available and make are on US 7 near the parking area entrance. Back Inn Time Street (call beforehand). is located on Fairfield Zippy’s Snack Bar, The Magic Closet (located beside The Magic Snack Bar, Zippy’s their restrooms and water make Treats and Toby’s Zippy’s) to trail users. Mart Go-Go available has a public telephone; The Magic Closet allow use of their private line. and Nana’s hours at during summer daylight Restrooms are available the reststop before mile 1.

Guide to the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail All Aboard the Milk Train! Farms, Forests, Fields, and Communities: Come Enjoy Our Agricultural Heritage! speed. Stay right, except to pass. right, speed. Stay “on your left/right.” startling them. Yell actions at crossings. especially at intersections and conditions, crossings and after rainstorms.

The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail is a public Rail Trail The Missisquoi Valley Agricultural crossings are an historic part of but must Horses are permitted on the Trail Fifth Edition Guidelines to Bicycle By A variety of warm-weather the users travel Rail Missisquoi Valley ride run, walk, They Trail. observe bicycle, horses, and just exercise, wildlife, visit. Cyclists sharing the path with other users to slow down have may or stop. Despite the bicycle pleasant setting, collisions can happen on do on streets. Bicycles are paths just as they and must law Vermont considered vehicles by Ride in a safe and controlled follow traffic laws. ultimately responsible for are You manner. operating your bicycle under all conditions. Below are guidelines to cycling the trail: 1. WEAR A HELMET. 2. Be courteous. Ride predictably – straight and at a steady 3. Call out to others4. before passing to avoid users. 5. Yield to slower use lights and reflectors. 6. If you ride at night, of motorists’ Ride defensively – be aware 7. of potential changes in trail Be aware 8. 9. Ride single file. 10. Carry items in panniers pack. or a handlebar 11. cycling gloves. Wear the by Adapted from information provided Source: Bicycle Federation Chicagoland Whether you walk, ski, or ride, a trip on the or ride, ski, walk, Whether you the you into takes Rail Trail Valley Missisquoi open agricultural heart Northern of Vermont’s through the farms, wanders Trail lands. The County of Franklin and wetlands fields, forests, steady grades with pace – slow, at a railroad’s Trail, the full length of the bends. For sweeping the postcard images of Vermont see you’ll also see the families You’ll grown to love. you’ve and working landscapes that created and support Please respect this spectacular scenery. neighbors the privacy and property of the Trail’s trash and free of the Trail at all times and keep debris. each other safe is everyone’s resource. Keeping Good rules of thumb include responsibility. user and yielding to yielding to the slowest livestock and other animals. rural your step or experience – watch the Trail’s your bicycle at these crossings to avoid walk mud splatters. possible. near the shoulder whenever travel Horse and pet owners animal should remove owners must from the trail surface. Pet waste control of their animals at all times. have Safety First – Yours and Ours! and Safety First – Yours Traveling the Rail the Trail Traveling For more information more vacationing in on For Travel to nearby attractions without packing to nearby Travel Join the celebration at our fairs, festivals, festivals, Join the celebration at our fairs, Discover the warmth and hospitality of our the warmth Discover Hear the rush of the Missisquoi River while Experience rural tour of life with a walking Explore our working landscapes and discover Franklin County or Vermont, contact the County or Vermont, Franklin organizations listed in Sources for Information. your bags. Take a train; ride your bicycle; board your bags. Take the bus; paddle a canoe; clip on your skis. just a short trip from European Montreal, We’re the beautiful Lake metropolitan Burlington, Memphremagog, Lake Champlain Islands, President Chester Arthur and Historic Site, major ski areas. several and parades. There is something to do in every season. residents. We’re ready to make you feel right at ready to make residents. We’re seeking a change for your home whether you’re or simply for relaxation. business or family, sampling the products of our local orchards, and craftsmen. farms, our historic homes and villages, an afternoon our historic homes and villages, shopping expedition in our vibrant downtowns, concertand an evening on our village greens. the faces and places that make agriculture a the faces and places that make continued success. Vermont’s True Treasure True Vermont’s True Vermont’s County, to Franklin Welcome borders lies a Within the County’s Treasure. and natural resources, of culture, wealth recreation opportunities. – report problems along To – 26.4 miles – maintenance safety and For – Crushed limestone for majority of – 35 mph in rural areas. 15 mph in – surface is 10 feet. Trail – St. Albans & Richford © Copyright 2007 Northwest Regional mile asphalt pavement in Enosburg Falls. mile asphalt pavement – Maximum grade is 3%. 3 ⁄

1 Planning Commission

& Vermont Agency

trail. Surface Type Trail Width Trail Steep side slopes (stay on trail). Steep side slopes (stay Town road crossings may be greater. road crossings may Town Grade of snowmobiles on streets and highways. of snowmobiles on streets on the Trail. Vermont law prohibits the operation law Vermont on the Trail. Motorbikes, ATVs, and ORVs are not permitted and ORVs ATVs, Motorbikes, wheelchairs, and maintenance vehicles. and wheelchairs, with the exception of snowmobiles, motorized snowmobiles, with the exception of Allowed Uses Allowed are permittednon-motorized uses only reasons, Overall Length Vital Trail Facts Vital Trail Welcome to Franklin County! County! Franklin to Welcome 5993. to the Vermont State Police by calling (802) 524- by State Police to the Vermont law while on the trail, we urge you to report we them while on the trail, law Reporting Problems (802) 524-5926. If you observe violations of the Vermont Agency of Transportation District 8 at Agency of Transportation Vermont the trail (downed trees, washouts, etc.), call the call etc.), washouts, the trail (downed trees, End Points village areas. Speed Limit Asphalt pavement at most agricultural crossings. Asphalt pavement of Transportation