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Lamoille Valley Rail Trail Guide

Biking & Walking Near Stowe, Morrisville & Hardwick

Ride Right From Your Door

One of the best parts about staying here is that you can step outside and be directly on the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail—no driving, no planning, just go.

The trail stretches across northern Vermont and offers some of the most scenic, easy riding in the state. It’s wide, mostly flat, and incredibly peaceful, making it perfect for a relaxed ride, a long walk, or just getting outside for a bit.

Whether you’re looking for a short morning ride or a full day adventure, this is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to experience the area.

What Makes the Rail Trail Special

The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail follows an old railroad line, so the grade is gentle and consistent—no steep climbs, no technical terrain.

Along the way you’ll find:

Rivers and quiet stretches of countryside

Farmland, forests, and mountain views

Occasional bridges and scenic overlooks

Easy access points into small Vermont towns

It’s the kind of ride where you can go at your own pace and actually take things in.

Best Sections to Ride (Local Favorites)

Morrisville → Hardwick (Highly Recommended)

This is one of the best stretches of the trail.

You’ll pass:

Open farmland

River views

Quiet wooded sections

When you reach Hardwick, it’s a great place to stop, grab a bite, and turn it into a round-trip ride.

Morrisville Area (Closest & Easiest)

If you’re just looking to get out for a quick ride or walk, the Morrisville section is perfect.

Flat, scenic, and easy to jump on and off—this is great for:

Morning coffee rides

Evening walks

Families or casual riders

Bike Rentals Nearby

If you didn’t bring a bike, there are a few good options nearby:

• Chucks Bikes (Morrisville)

• Power Play Sports (Morrisville)

• Riverside Cycles (Hardwick)

How to Plan Your Ride

You don’t need a complicated plan here—that’s part of the beauty.

A few easy options:

1–2 hours: Ride out and back from the property

Half day: Head toward Hardwick and explore

Full day: Ride, stop for food, take your time, and enjoy the scenery

Bring water, take breaks, and don’t rush—it’s more about the experience than the mileage.

Make It a Ride + Stop

One of the best ways to enjoy the trail is to pair it with a stop along the way.

A local favorite:

Lost Nation Brewing (Morrisville) – right off the rail trail with great beer and food

It makes for a perfect mid-ride break.

Best Times to Go

Morning: quiet, cool, and peaceful

Late afternoon: great light and relaxed pace

Fall: absolutely incredible foliage along the trail

A Few Local Tips

The trail is packed gravel, so hybrid or mountain bikes are best

It’s generally flat, but longer rides can sneak up on you—pace yourself

Bring water and a light layer, especially in the morning

This is a great option on days when you want something active but not strenuous

Staying Nearby

If you’re staying at Gnome Shire Cottage, you have direct access to the trail—just step outside and go.

It’s one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to experience the area without needing to drive anywhere.

Pair It With Other Local Favorites

If you’re planning your stay, this pairs perfectly with:

Brad’s Favorite Waterfall Tour

Easy hikes around Elmore

Scenic drives toward Stowe and Greensboro

Final Thought

The rail trail is one of those things that doesn’t need much explaining—you just get on and go.

It’s simple, beautiful, and one of the best ways to experience this part of Vermont at your own pace

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