Explore Vermont’s Year-Round Rail Trail Linking 18 Towns Across 93 Scenic Miles

A Nationwide Movement

Across the country, a movement is taking place. It’s a movement to turn abandoned railways into trails for bikers, hikers, and runners. The state of Vermont, known for spectacular trails like the Island Line Rail Trail, is currently wrapping up its latest railway-turned-pedestrian-trail: the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail.

The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail

The new rail trail, set to become New England’s longest, will run nearly the width of Vermont—from St. Johnsbury in the east to Swanton in the west. It will span a continuous 93 miles upon completion, expected in the spring. However, the trail is partially open for public use, with only one segment—from Hardwick to Wolcott—still under construction.

Community and Trail Connection

Jackie Cassino, the Vermont Agency of Transportation’s rail trails program manager, highlighted that “it runs through and near many vibrant communities, and it also goes through rural areas where trail users can have a true nature experience.” This makes it an ideal destination for both local residents and visiting adventurers.

Year-Round Activities

The trail connects 18 communities and intersects with several other state trails, including the VAST snowmobile trail network, the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, and the Long Trail, which traverses the entire state. With trail parking available throughout the corridor, it’s easy for users to hop on and off the route with convenience. Those looking to complete the trail in one go can plan out meals and overnight stays in nearby communities.

Travelers can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, including visiting historic railroad buildings and the iconic Fisher Covered Bridge, recognized as one of the last railroad covered bridges still in operation today.

Cassino emphasized that trail users can “really unplug and get away from it all—perhaps even experiencing solitude on certain sections of the trail.”

The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is set to remain open year-round, welcoming all kinds of non-motorized traffic. After snowfall, users can expect to see cross-country skiers and snowshoers, alongside winter runners and fat-tire bikers. Additionally, horseback riders, dog sledders, and snowmobilers—who are the exception to the non-motorized rule—can also utilize the trail. It is wheelchair-accessible, featuring low grades, a 10-foot-wide firm crushed stone surface, and two-foot grass shoulders for ease of travel.

For more information or to plan your route, visit here.