Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail - Rails to Trails on Waymarking.com

In 1984, a section of a railroad bridge at Sheldon Junction collapsed under the weight of an engine, resulting in the closure of the Central Vermont RR line between St. Albans and Richford, a distance of 26.4 miles. Over the years, the tracks were removed and the bed converted to recreational use, but cyclists and hikers had to use a short section of busy highway to cross the Missisquoi River where the bridge was out. It was 2002 before the collapsed bridge section was replaced and users could safely traverse the entire length of the trail without having to venture onto the highway (except to cross the road at the thirteen places where the trail and Route 105 intersect).

Coordinates given are for the St. Albans trail head; the Richford trail head is at N 44 59.347 W072 40.120.

There is parking at both end points, and at several places along the route. These are specifically provided parking areas; other parking is possible at several points where the trail crosses side roads.

In addition to the "Broken Bridge," there is one other former rail bridge along the trail.

A complete map of the trail, showing parking spots and places where one can obtain refreshments is available here.