At the Joe's Pond Association meeting last Saturday, Andy Rudin asked about the progress of the rail trail from St. Johnsbury to Swanton on the old St. J.& L.C. R.R. line. Andy gave me a link to the LVRT (Lamoille Valley Rail Trail) web site which is posted on our home page. In addition, he recently contacted the president of VAST (Vermont Association of Snow Travelers), Ann Shangraw, to ask the question, "Can you tell me when the trail to St. Johnsbury will be good enough to walk and bike on?" Ms. Shangraw forwarded his question to Bryant Watson, executive director of VAST. When we know more, I'll post the information here.

We took this picture last fall of the new bridge over the channel leading into Joe's Pond. While some people are using the rail trail, it is my understanding it is very rough in some areas - fine for snowmobiles in the winter, but tough on bikers and hikers. Also, with several bear sightings in this area and on the trail, plan to make noise if you are using the trail. Whistle, sing, or talk as you go so any bears will know you're there. Not good to surprise them, especially this time of the year when they have cubs. On the other hand, if you are out to take pictures of wild life, I guess you "takes yer chances."