Welcome to Essex County, the northernmost region of Vermont, a.k.a The Northeast Kingdom (NEK). The region is a prime destination for snowmobiling enthusiasts.
Essex County's Northeast Kingdom, along with its neighbors Orleans County and Caledonia County, is known as the "Snowmobile Capital of Vermont." It offers hundreds of miles of trails and is an exemplary destination for snowmobilers. The trails connect to other parts of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Canada, making it a popular destination for long-distance snowmobiling. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, the trails around Island Pond promise a memorable experience.
NEW 2025 Essex County Maps are on sale at the Welcome Center, Kingdom Market, Irving Gas Station, Ace Gervais Hardware, and Brighton Garage. $5. If you would like a map sent to you, email the club at bscvt400@gmail.com
Essex County towns: Averill, Bloomfield, Brighton, Brunswick, Canaan, Concord, East Haven, Ferdinand, Granby, Guildhall, Lemington, Lewis, Lunenburg, Maidstone, Norton, Victory
REGION HIGHLIGHTS
Dave Page Memorial and Snowmobile Playground
A tribute to the memory of an avid snowmobiler and pillar of the NEK snowmobiling community. An extensive and well-maintained trail system in the Island Pond area provides various terrains and scenic routes for snowmobilers to enjoy.
Lewis Pond Overlook
Lewis Pond Overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests from VAST Trail 2000 (Trail maintained by the Brighton Snowmobile Club).
Nulhegan Basin
Part of the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, this area is known for its diverse wildlife including the charming Gray Jays.
MAPS
Most snowmobile clubs produce maps for their specific region. The Vermont Association of Snow Travelers has a great map of the entire Vermont region. For more information, visit www.vtvast.org.
CLUBS & TRAILS
Brighton Snowmobile Club
P.O. Box 400
Island Pond, VT 05846
http://www.brightonsnowmobile.org
https://www.facebook.com/BrightonSnowmobileClub
Canaan Border Riders Inc.
P.O. Box 388
Canaan, Vermont 05903
https://canaanborderridersvt.org
https://www.facebook.com/canaanborderridersvermont
Connecticut Valley Sno-Riders
P.O. Box 33
Guildhall, VT 05905
https://www.facebook.com/ctvalleysnoriders
https://www.instagram.com/ctvalleysnoriders
Lunenburg Polar Bears
P.O. Box 164
Lunenburg, VT 05906
https://www.facebook.com/lunenburgpolarbears
Moose River Rock Dodgers
8955 Granby Road
Granby, VT 05840
https://www.facebook.com/mooseriver.rockdodgers
https://mooseriverrockdodgers.homestead.com/index.html
Northeast Kingdom Snow Blasters
114 Gaudette Road
Norton, VT 05907
TRAIL CONDITIONS & REPORTS
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & TOURISM INFORMATION CENTERS
Click the links below for a complete regional snow conditions report.
LODGING INFORMATION
Exploring the snowmobile trails of Essex County is a thrilling adventure, and finding suitable lodging can enhance your overall experience by providing comfort, convenience, and access to Vermont's beautiful winter landscapes.
Essex County offers a variety of lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets. For information on lodging types, see the selections below.
Feel free to
contact GONE Snowmobiling for more information.
Several lodges and resorts in this region cater specifically to snowmobilers. These establishments often provide direct access to snowmobile trails and amenities such as on-site restaurants, hot tubs, and cozy common areas. Some lodges also offer guided snowmobile tours and rentals.
In larger towns and cities within this region, you can find hotels and motels that cater to snowmobilers. These establishments offer comfortable rooms, parking facilities for snowmobile trailers, and proximity to snowmobile trails. They may also provide amenities like breakfast, Wi-Fi, and indoor pools.
Renting a cabin or cottage is a popular option for snowmobilers who want a private and rustic experience. This region has numerous cabins and cottages available for rent, both privately owned and operated by resorts or outfitters. These accommodations often feature fireplaces, kitchens, and outdoor grills.
Tip: Websites like Airbnb and Vrbo are good resources for finding available cabin rentals in the area.
This region has charming bed and breakfast establishments that provide a cozy and intimate atmosphere for snowmobile enthusiasts. These accommodations typically offer comfortable rooms, homemade breakfast, and personalized service. They can be found in both rural and urban areas of the county.
Tip #1: When planning your snowmobile lodging in Essex County, it's essential to consider the location and proximity to snowmobile trails. Many lodging options are situated near significant trail systems, allowing easy access to the extensive network of groomed trails for which Essex County is known.
Tip #2: Contact specific lodging establishments directly or visit their websites for the most accurate and up-to-date availability, amenities, and pricing information.
Below are some popular choices for winter snowmobile lodging in the area.
ISLAND POND
Essex House
138 Cross St.
Island Pond, VT 05846
802-723-9888
https://essexhouseandtavern.com
Island Pond Country Inn
127 Cross Street
Island Pond, VT 05846
802-723-6507
MORGAN (Orleans County)
Seymour Lake Lodge
28 Valley Rd
Morgan, VT 05853
802-895-2563
http://www.lakeseymourlodge.com/index.html
WESTMORE (Orleans County)
WilloughVale Inn
793 VT Route 5A
Westmore, VT 05822
802-525-4123
MISCELLANEOUS
Contact me for a full list of rental companies in this region.
If you don't own a snowmobile, fear not! There are several rental shops in this region where you can rent a sled for your stay. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak snowmobiling season.
When contacting rental companies, inquire about rental rates, availability, equipment condition, and any additional services they offer. Also, confirm whether they provide safety gear such as helmets and if they offer guided tours or recommendations for scenic trails.
Looking for something specific? Feel free to contact me for more information.
Tip: weather conditions and trail availability can impact your plans, so always be prepared with extra snacks, water, and hydrating beverages while you look for a convenient eating spot.
Local Cafes and Diners: Many small towns in this region have charming local cafes and diners where you can stop in for a hot meal. These places often offer comfort food, sandwiches, and beverages to warm you up.
Lodges and Resorts: Some lodges and resorts along the snowmobile trails might have on-site restaurants or snack bars. These establishments could offer various options, from casual dining to more upscale meals.
Trailside Restaurants: Some areas along the snowmobile trails might have trailside restaurants that cater specifically to snowmobilers. These establishments might offer quick bites, warming drinks, and a resting place before continuing your ride.
General Stores and Markets: Some small general stores or markets along the trails might offer ready-to-eat items, snacks, and beverages that you can take with you.
Picnic Spots: Consider bringing your own packed lunch or snacks and find a scenic spot along the trail to stop and enjoy your meal. Just make sure you're respecting the environment by cleaning up after yourself.
Local Pubs or Taverns: If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, you might find local pubs or taverns in the towns near the snowmobile trails. These places offer a place to unwind, enjoy a meal, and interact with locals.
Here are some trail-accessible restaurants:
BEECHER FALLS
Border Jumpers Bar & Pool
1071 VT RTE 253
Beecher Falls, VT
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554982288127
BLOOMFIELD
DeBanville’s General Store/Café - FUEL
47 Vermont Route 105
Bloomfield, VT 05905
802-962-5525
CANAAN
Aprils Maple
6507 VT Route 114
Canaan, VT 05903
802-266-9624
Border Jumpers Bar & Pool
1071 VT RTE 253
Beecher Falls, VT
Timeout Tavern at the Northland
114 Gale Street
Canaan, VT 05903
802-266-3988
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063732271066
CONCORD
The Mooselook Diner
1058 Main Street
Concord, VT 05824
ISLAND POND
Island Pond Country Market & Deli (Formerly Express Mart Irving)
99 Cross Street
Island Pond, VT 05846
802-723-6178
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064293063622
Cunningham’s Full-Service Station - FUEL
204 Gale Street
Canaan, VT 05903
802-266-8900
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028611505481
Hobo's Cafe
10 Cross Street
Island Pond, VT 05846
802-723-4601
https://www.facebook.com/HobosCafe.IslandPondVT
The Ice Hole - Bar
99 Cross Street
Island Pond, VT 05846
802-723-6178
https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Ice-Hole-100075855648489
Kingdom Market – Grocery Store - FUEL
12 Railroad Street
Island Pond, VT 05846
802-723-5464
https://www.kingdommarket802.com
LUNENBURG
Lunenburg Variety - FUEL
23 West Main St
Lunenburg, VT 05906
https://www.facebook.com/LunenburgVariety
NORTON
Lake View Store – Averill (Specialty Grocery Store) FUEL
4531 VT Road 114 East,
Norton, VT
215-279-3642
https://www.facebook.com/LakeViewStore
SOUTH NORTON
Norton Store & Deli – FUEL
Deli/Quick Food
540 RTE 114
South Norton, VT 05907
Tips: When contacting repair shops, inquire about their services, expertise, turnaround times, and rates. Choosing a reputable and experienced repair shop is important to ensure the best service for your snowmobile. Remember that availability and offerings may change, so it's always a good idea to contact multiple sources and verify information before making decisions.
Local Business Directories: Search online business directories specific to this region. These directories might list repair shops, their contact information, and customer reviews.
Snowmobile Clubs and Forums: Contact local snowmobile clubs or online snowmobile forums. Members of these communities often have recommendations for reliable repair shops in the area.
Snowmobile Dealerships: Check with snowmobile dealerships in this region. They might offer repair services or be able to recommend trusted repair shops in the vicinity.
Automotive Repair Shops: Some general automotive repair shops offer snowmobile repair services. Contact these shops to inquire about their capabilities and services.
Local Word of Mouth: Ask locals or other snowmobilers for recommendations. They might have personal experience with repair shops in the area.
Online Search: Use search engines to find repair shops focusing on snowmobiles or small engines. Include keywords like "snowmobile repair near me" to narrow your search.
Trail Information Centers: Visitor centers or trail information centers in this region might have resources and recommendations for local repair businesses.
Here are some local service businesses:
All Around Power Equipment
1746 Memorial Drive
St. Johnsbury, VT 05819
1-800-748-1413
https://www.allaroundpower.com
https://www.facebook.com/allaroundpower
Al’s Snowmobile Parts Warehouse
3868 Pine Hill Road
Newport, VT 05855
802-487-1000
Kingdom Powersports
60 Upper Quarry Road
Newport, VT 05855
802-274-0040
https://www.facebook.com/KingdomPowersports
Walt’s Sales & Service
1972 Rt.5
North Derby, VT 05829
802-766-5583
In case of a medical emergency while snowmobiling, always have the local emergency number (typically 911 in the United States) programmed into your phone.
CALEDONIA COUNTY
Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital
1315 Hospital Drive
Saint Johnsbury 05819
802-748-7400
ORLEANS COUNTY
North Country Hospital and Health Center
189 Prouty Drive
Newport 05855
802-334-7331
A park-n-ride for snowmobilers is a designated area where individuals who own or operate snowmobiles can park their vehicles and trailers before heading out to explore snowmobile trails. Like park-n-rides for cars, commonly used by commuters who carpool or use public transportation, park-n-rides for snowmobilers provide a convenient and safe place to park their vehicles while engaging in recreational snowmobiling activities.
Parking Facilities: A park-n-ride for snowmobilers usually offers ample parking space for trucks, trailers, and vehicles transporting snowmobiles. The parking area is designed to accommodate the needs of snowmobilers trailering their machines to the starting point of a snowmobile trail.
Access to Trails: These facilities are strategically located near popular snowmobiling trailheads. Snowmobilers can park their vehicles and quickly access nearby snowmobile trails without traveling long distances from their homes to the trailhead.
Safety and Security: Park-n-rides for snowmobilers are often designed with safety in mind. They might have designated parking spaces, proper lighting, and possibly security features to help deter theft or vandalism.
Trail Information: Some park-n-rides might provide information boards, maps, or signage detailing nearby snowmobiling trails, trail conditions, and safety guidelines. This helps snowmobilers plan their routes and enjoy a safe and enjoyable ride.
Community Convenience: These facilities can benefit both residents and visitors. Locals can easily access snowmobile trails without causing congestion in residential areas, while visitors can find a centralized location to park and start their snowmobiling adventures.
Facility Regulations: Depending on the location and management, there might be regulations or guidelines for using the park-n-ride, such as parking fees, parking duration limits, and rules for keeping the area clean.
Here are some local Park-n-Rides:
Canaan Hill Road
Canaan Hill Road from Forest Lake Rd and VT Route 114
Maidstone Lake Road Parking Area
Maidstone Lake Road, access to Corridor 98
Norton Parking
518 VT Route 114 in Norton
Stone Dam Parking Area
Junction of Stone Dam Road & Route 105, access to Corridor 102
Drift Dusters Warming Hut
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