Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail
Explore booming mountain views, and quintessential New England villages.
Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail
Welcome to the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail
With its bucolic setting, quiet river nooks, booming mountain views, and quintessential New England villages, the Missisquoi Valley is one of Vermont’s true treasures. The New England Central Rail Line has been connecting the communities of the Missisquoi Valley since 1886— first by train and now by multi-use trail corridor. The 26.4-mile trail wanders through the villages, farms, forests, fields, and wetlands of Franklin County at a railroad’s pace: slow, steady grades with sweeping bends.
For the full length of the Trail, you’ll see the postcard images of Vermont you’ve grown to love. Interspersed between our historic village centers, you’ll also find the families and working landscapes that created and continue to support this spectacular scenery. Come visit us and explore the MVRT!
Trail Facts
| Length: | 26.4 miles |
| Surface: | Crushed stone, pavement |
| Seasons: | 4 - all |
| Towns: | 7 |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Elevation: | ≤3% |
MVRT Overview Map
Wherever you go on the MVRT, 26.4 miles of smooth gravel await you. Those peaceful ribbons of smooth gravel and pavement that connect you to Vermont in both simple and powerful ways. Whatever your passion, MVRT takes you on a laidback journey through the sights, sounds, and flavors of Vermont.
Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail
Pinch and Zoom the map using two inputs.
REGIONAL PARKING INFORMATION
Where do I park?
Public parking and trail access can be found at the following locations:
- St. Albans — Green’s Corners
- Sheldon — Kane Road
WHAT IS IT?
Quick questions about the MVRT
Safety First – Yours and Ours!
Whether you walk, ski, or ride, a trip on the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail takes you into the heart of Northern Vermont’s agricultural open lands. The Trail wanders through the farms, forests, fields, and wetlands of Franklin County at a railroad’s pace – slow, steady grades with sweeping bends. For the full length of the Trail, you’ll see the postcard images of Vermont you’ve grown to love. You’ll also see the families and working landscapes that created and support this spectacular scenery. Please respect the privacy and property of the Trail’s neighbors at all times and keep the Trail free of trash and debris.
What uses are allowed on the trail?
All non-motorized uses are allowed. In the winter snowmobiles also use the trail (and it is groomed by the local snowmobile clubs). Signs posted at trail entrances summarize the allowed uses and expectations.
ATVs and other motorized recreation are not allowed on the trail.
E-bikes allowed.
Horses are permitted on the Trail but must travel near the shoulder whenever possible. Horse and pet owners should remove animal waste from the trail surface. Pet owners must have control of their animals at all times.
Trail Users Pledge
I will remember that the land I am traveling on is not mine, but borrowed from future generations. The trail is a neighbor to many homes and businesses. I will respect their privacy, as I would expect others to respect mine.
I understand that I am not the only guest to share this great outdoors. There are others from all walks of life who seek the same privilege of using this land just like me. I will also respect the wild creatures who were here long before me.
I will take time to slow my journey, if only to experience the beauty of the season and to enjoy this trail I love. I will remember the Golden Rule: Keeping each other safe is everyone’s responsibility.
I will leave no blight of litter or abuse on this gift of freedom from life’s often sameness.
Trail use is a privilege, not a right. Remember, the key to the future of trails in Vermont is permission from a landowner.
Source: Adapted from Snowmobiler’s Pledge, Safe Riders™ Campaign
Where can I find print maps of the open trail segments?
You can download the PDF maps linked below.
What towns does the MVRT run through?
The trail extends across counties connecting 7 towns including St. Albans, Sheldon Springs, Sheldon Junction, Enosburg Falls, North Enosburgh, East Berkshire, and Richbord.
Trail Segments
Planning Your Visit
The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail (MVRT) is a hidden gem set within the rolling hills along the Missisquoi River. This multi-use trail offers a wide variety of year-round user experiences. There are 6 official trailheads along the route creating opportunities for an out and back or point to point ride.
Sheldon Junction to Enosburgh Falls
The trail parallels the Missisquoi River offering scenic views of river rapids, quiet pools, working farms, and Jay Peak. Look for fox, deer, and other wildlife. Three crossings of VT 105.
Enosburgh Falls to Richford
The trail parallels the Missisquoi River with outstanding views. The landscape offers a nice mix of sunny farmland, shaded forests, and quiet wetlands. Good segment for bird watchers. Multiple crossings of VT 105.
St. Albans to Sheldon Junction
Open, quiet farmland from St. Albans to Green’s Corners. Beautiful wetlands and pines with some residential areas from Green’s Corners to Sheldon Springs. Few road crossings, mostly of gravel roads.
Contact Us
Have a question?
If you have additional questions or comments, please contact us.
May 9, 2023