If traveling on two wheels or on your own feet is your idea of a perfect getaway, this upcoming destination may be your dream vacation.
The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail (LVRT), a 93-mile pedestrian path that will run about the entire width of Vermont is slated to open in the greenest state this spring. Designed for bikers, hikers, runners and wheelchair users this pedestrian trail transforms unused railways into a vehicle-free natural paradise, surrounded by valleys, forests and many more rural delights.
The LVRT connects 18 towns across five counties, from St Johnsbury all the way east to Swanton. Several sections of the route are already open. When it’s complete, this will be New England’s longest rail trail to date.
The entire rail trail can be enjoyed for a hop-on, hop-off style trip, or in small segments at a time. It also connects to more adventurous hiking paths. Trail parking can be found throughout the route. Specified trail maps also suggest farms, forests and small local businesses to venture out to during a day exploring the path.
“It runs through and near many vibrant communities, and it also goes through rural areas where trail users can have a true nature experience,” Jackie Cassino, the Vermont Agency of Transportation’s rail trails program manager, told Travel + Leisure.
Because it runs through Vermont, the trail is also expected to have a steady amount of snow in the colder months. It’s open to most non-motorized vehicles, so cross-country skiers, snowshoers, dog sledders and fat-tired bikers can utilize the year-round attraction. Snowmobiles will also be permitted after heavy snowfall.
