Cross Rivendell Trail

The Cross Rivendell Trail connects Mount Cube in Orford, New Hampshire, to Flagpole Hill in Vershire, Vermont. For the section leading to Mount Cube, you'll find trailheads and parking areas in Orford, NH. Specific parking details can vary, so it's always a good idea to check local resources or the Rivendell Trails Association website before heading out.

The trail offers a diverse landscape. You'll encounter dense forests, wetlands, and open fields, with sections alongside mountain streams. Towards Mount Cube, the terrain becomes more challenging, featuring mixed forestland with switchbacks, boulders, and increasingly rocky ground. Some parts also follow roads.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time for hiking is typically from late spring through fall. During these seasons, you'll experience pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing, but be prepared for snow and ice conditions.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Please remember to pack out any waste.

While the Cross Rivendell Trail itself doesn't typically require permits, sections that pass through the White Mountain National Forest may have specific regulations or require a recreation pass for parking at certain trailheads. It's advisable to check the U.S. Forest Service website for the White Mountain National Forest before your visit to confirm any current requirements.

The trail offers breathtaking mountain views of the Upper Valley region. From various viewpoints, you can see distant peaks like Killington, Mt. Cardigan, Mt. Kearsarge, and Smarts Mountain. Significant vistas also include Orford, NH, Fairlee, VT, Indian Pond, Peaked Mt., Mount Moosilauke, and the wider White Mountains. The summit of Mount Cube is a notable highlight.

Yes, a significant feature for long-distance hikers is its connection to the Appalachian Trail at the summit of Mount Cube. The route also passes through sections of the Kodak Trail and the Mount Cube Trail.

The difficulty varies significantly by section. While the overall trail is considered advanced, many individual segments are easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making them great for families. However, the hike to Mount Cube is moderate to intermediate, requiring good fitness due to significant elevation gain and steep, rocky sections.

This trail is unique for its strong community connection; it's supported and maintained by the local community and physically links the three schools and towns of the Rivendell Interstate School District. It also functions as a "living classroom" for students, offering educational opportunities in nature.

Yes, the trail connects several towns in the Upper Valley region, including Orford, NH, and Fairlee, VT. These towns offer various amenities such as cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. You can find more choices in nearby Thetford, VT, West Fairlee, VT, and Vershire, VT as well.

The diverse habitats along the trail, including forests, wetlands, and fields, support a variety of wildlife. Hikers often spot various bird species, making it a great spot for bird-watching. Keep an eye out for smaller mammals, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of larger forest animals.