Best attractions and places to see in Franklin County include a network of scenic rail trails, historic bridges, and natural waterways. This region offers diverse opportunities for outdoor activities, particularly cycling and exploring river landscapes. Visitors can experience well-maintained routes that traverse farmland and forests, highlighting the area's natural beauty and historical structures. The county's attractions are primarily centered around its rivers and converted railway lines.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • River
Tip by
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Comstock Covered Bridge is a historic bridge in Montgomery, Vermont on Comstock Bridge Road. Built in 1883, it crosses the Trout River and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
0
0
This is one of several bridges in Richford that cross the Missisquoi River, which drains a section of the Green Mountains into Quebec, then back across the border and finally into Missisquoi Bay on Lake Champlain.
0
0
The track is covered by leaves but still easy to ride as there are no obstacles
0
0
The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail (MVRT) is fantastic riding. Crushed stone, but sometimes down to just a single, narrow dirt track for a few dozen feet just to keep it interesting. Lightly used. Lots of farmland, with mountains in the distance as you get closer to the Canadian border.
0
0
Franklin County is renowned for its scenic rail trails and rivers. You can cycle along the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, which offers well-maintained paths through farmland with distant mountain views. The Missisquoi River itself is a central feature, with several bridges crossing it, providing picturesque spots for exploration.
Yes, Franklin County features several historical landmarks, particularly its covered bridges. The Comstock Covered Bridge in Montgomery, built in 1883, is a notable historic site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Missisquoi River Bridge at Sheldon Junction also serves as a key point on a historic rail trail.
Cycling is a very popular activity, with extensive rail trails like the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail and the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail: Swanton to Sheldon Junction. These trails are suitable for various cycling levels and offer beautiful scenery. The Missisquoi River also provides opportunities for water-based activities, though specific details on kayaking or fishing would depend on local access points.
Many of Franklin County's attractions are family-friendly. The rail trails, such as the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, are well-maintained and offer easy cycling for all ages. Historic bridges like the Comstock Covered Bridge also make for interesting stops during family outings.
The cycling trails in Franklin County, such as the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, are generally well-maintained with an even surface. Some sections may be crushed stone, and occasionally a narrow dirt track, but they are typically easy to ride. The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail: Swanton to Sheldon Junction crosses forests, rivers, and fields, offering diverse scenery.
Franklin County offers numerous routes for various outdoor activities. For running, you can explore options like the 'Venise-en-Québec Marina loop' or 'Milton Pond – Milton Town Forest loop'. Road cyclists can enjoy challenging routes such as the 'Missisquoi River – Jay Peak Pass loop'. You can find more detailed information and specific routes on the Running Trails in Franklin County and Road Cycling Routes in Franklin County guide pages.
Visitors frequently praise the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail for its fantastic riding experience. It's noted for being well-maintained and relatively even, making it suitable for various skill levels. The trail offers beautiful passages through farmland with distant mountain views, and it's generally lightly used, providing a peaceful outdoor experience.
Absolutely. The Missisquoi River Bridge at Sheldon Junction is a key point on the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, offering scenic views. Another significant bridge is the Comstock Covered Bridge in Montgomery, a historic structure built in 1883 that crosses the Trout River.
The trails in Franklin County offer diverse and picturesque scenery. You can expect to ride through expansive farmlands with views of distant mountains, especially along the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail. The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail: Swanton to Sheldon Junction also takes you through forests, alongside rivers, and across open fields, providing a rich natural landscape.
For longer cycling tours, Franklin County offers several routes. The 'Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail loop from St. Albans' is a popular moderate option spanning over 43 km. More challenging routes include the 'Jay Peak Pass – Fuller Covered Bridge loop from Franklin', which covers nearly 100 km. You can find more details on these and other routes on the Cycling in Franklin County guide page.
The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail: Swanton to Sheldon Junction is described as a beautiful and well-maintained bike trail. While it's generally accessible, some sections can be a bit unstable when wet, so at least 32mm tires are recommended for optimal comfort and stability. It's considered an intermediate trail, offering a rewarding experience for cyclists.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: