|
|
 |
|
|
|||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||
|
This multi-use rail trail follows the railbed of the former Montpelier & Wells River Railroad through Groton State Forest. It is part of the ambitious Cross Vermont Trail project and will span the 75 miles from the Connecticut River in Wells River to Lake Champlain in Burlington. The trail just north of Ricker Pond is easy, relatively flat and a good stretch to ride for beginners and families with children. The surface varies from original ballast to a mix of gravel, sand and dirt. All along the trail are historical points of interest from the logging and rail road era. Despite a history of logging and industrial activity, the state forest still has a wild feeling. Although heavily logged and devastated by fires, the forest has made a spectacular comeback. It is alive with birch, maple, spruce and fir. There are granite peaks, glacial lakes and ponds, one of the largest bogs in the state and plenty of wildlife. Large mammals, such as moose, deer and black bear make the forest home. Mink, beaver and otters live by the lakes, rivers, creeks and bogs. This is also a recreation rich area. In addition to the rail trail are 20 miles of woods roads for mountain biking, miles of hiking trails, several campgrounds, rental cabins and a swimming beach (Lake Groton).
Other Activites: Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding, Snowmobiles, Cross Country Skiing
Historical Note: The Montpelior & Wells River Railroad opened in 1873, giving the Groton sawmills access to markets. From 1873-1956 it hauled granite, lumber, mail, dairy products , livestock and passengers along the route. Much of the ride still looks like it did 100 years ago, including the original granite mile markers. The railroad also opened the area to seasonal campers, with camps established along the shores of Groton Lake by 1894.
Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation Phone: (802) 748-8787
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|
|
federal & state trails / county & local trails / urban legends / vermont rail trails / mtb outdoor adventure centers & resorts |
|
|
|
Connecticut /
Delaware /
Maine /
Maryland /
Massachusetts /
New Hampshire /
New Jersey /
home /
special features /
in the loop /
mountain bike events calendar /
resource hub /
the bike rack /
about /
Entire contents of website, © 1999 - 2008. All rights reserved. Lynn Creative, Inc. See Terms of Use. Bikekinetix® Is A Registered Trademark of Lynn Creative Inc. |
Historic / Family
