Attractions and Places To See around North Hyde Park - Top 5

North Hyde Park, Vermont, is primarily known for its extensive rail trails, offering excellent opportunities for cycling, hiking, and running. The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is a central feature, providing a multi-use path for various activities. In winter, these trails are popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You can find more detailed routes for hiking, cycling, and gravel biking.

Yes, the area preserves remnants of its railroad history. A notable historical site is the Old Railroad Bridge, which is part of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail. This bridge offers a glimpse into the region's past as you traverse the former railway lines.

Absolutely. Sections of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, such as the Jeffersonville to Johnson and Johnson to Morrisville segments, are categorized as family-friendly. The crushed gravel path is generally flat and car-free, making it safe and enjoyable for walkers, runners, and cyclists of all ages.

Beyond the rail trails, you can explore natural beauty like Big Muddy Lake and Devil's Gulch via trails such as the Babcock Trail. This trail offers views of the lake and takes you through a shaded gulch, providing a varied landscape of water features and rocky hillsides.

The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is open year-round. Spring, summer, and fall are ideal for walking, running, and cycling, with vibrant foliage in autumn. In winter, the trail transforms into a popular destination for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even dog-sledding, offering unique seasonal experiences.

Yes, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is a fantastic destination for winter sports. The crushed gravel path is groomed for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Some sections also accommodate dog-sledders, making it a versatile winter playground.

The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, being a multi-use path on a former railway, is generally flat with a crushed gravel surface, making many sections accessible for various users, including those with strollers or seeking easier routes. Specific accessibility for wheelchairs may vary by section, but the nature of a rail trail typically offers a smoother experience than traditional hiking trails.

Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic, car-free environment of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, which allows for peaceful exploration of Vermont's landscape. The historical elements, like the Old Railroad Bridge, also add a unique charm. The trails are praised for being a lovely way to experience this part of Vermont, suitable for various activities and skill levels.

While many sections of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail are gentle, the broader region around North Hyde Park offers more challenging options. For instance, the hiking guide includes routes like Belvidere Mountain and Laraway Mountain Trail, which are rated as moderate difficulty. For cycling, some gravel biking routes are rated difficult, such as the Old Railroad Bridge – Dog’s Head Falls loop from Hyde Park Village.

Parking is available at various access points along the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail. For example, the section from Jeffersonville to Johnson has trailheads in Cambridge Junction and at Old Mill Park in Johnson. Similarly, the Johnson to Morrisville section has access points in both towns. It's advisable to check specific town websites or local trail maps for designated parking areas.

Yes, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail intersects with the famous Long Trail, a thru-hike that traverses the state of Vermont. The section of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail from the Long Trail Intersection to Old Mill Park provides a direct connection, allowing you to link your rail trail adventure with a more extensive hiking experience.

For a day on the trails, especially the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, it's recommended to bring water, snacks, appropriate footwear (hiking shoes or comfortable cycling shoes), and weather-appropriate clothing. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also advisable. If cycling, a helmet is essential. In winter, layer up and bring snowshoes or cross-country skis.