Location: South Hero, Vermont, in Grand Isle County
Description: The Roy Marsh Trail, formerly part of the Island Line Railroad, passes through the Roy Marsh Wildlife Management Area, which is owned by the State of Vermont. It is an out-and-back ride totaling 3.5 miles round trip.
The marsh and surrounding countryside make for a very pretty ride, especially in autumn.
Another nearby ride is the Round Pond and Landon Farm trail system. It is not connected to the Roy Marsh trail, but is a 5-minute drive away so you could ride both in one day for a total of 7 miles of riding.
Terrain: Narrow, flat, straight trail through woods next to marshland. It’s a great place to trot and canter. The footing which is packed dirt is excellent (as long as it’s not muddy) but in places there are exposed tree roots or old railroad ties that are tripping hazards for horses, so keep a close eye on the trail ahead of you and be prepared to slow down to a walk quickly.
Trail map: For an interactive map that you can follow while riding, click this link to AllTrails.
Access: The area can be accessed from Exit 17 on Interstate 89. Take Rt. 2 west and shortly after passing through the village of S. Hero, turn left onto Tracy Rd. The parking area and trailhead are less than 1/4 mile ahead on the left. Click here for the exact location.
Parking: The parking area is very large where many trailers could park and turn around.
Restrictions and safety warnings:
- The trail is abutted on both sides by private land, so do not stray from the trail.
- Other recreation includes hiking, cross-country skiing, and hunting.
- Please do not ride when conditions are very muddy.
Note: Trail and road conditions can change at any time. The actual conditions you encounter may differ from the information presented here. Horseback riding is inherently dangerous and you must employ independent judgement and use the information herein at your own risk. By accessing this site, you acknowledge and accept these limitations and agree to hold harmless Horse Trail Chicks, Monica Raymond, and Kerrie Garvey, from any liability, damages, injury, or death that result from using this information.
