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Northern Forest Canoe Trail: Section 5

The 740-mile Northern Forest Canoe Trail traverses some of the most scenic paddling country in the northeast. This section follows the Mississquoi Valley through some of the most active agricultural land in Vermont and Quebec.
Trail Activity
Paddling
Length
36.60 miles, One Way
Difficulty
Easy, Moderate, Advanced
Towns
Berkshire (VT), Enosburg (VT), Richford (VT)
Surface
River/Stream
Pets
Permitted on leash
Fees
No

Description

This section of the NFCT follows the Mississquoi and Upper Mississquoi Rivers through mainly agricultural lands in both Quebec and Vermont. These waterways and the Grand Portage were historically used by the Abenaki, as well as later by European explorers and settlers traveling between Québec City and the New England settlements. This section is characterized by rolling hills, dairy farms and forests with a history of logging. The river generally has sufficient water for paddling all season long, although expect to walk through occasional riffles during low water conditions.

In order to safely experiencee the Northern Forest Canoe Trail in this region, please bring the NFCT Section 5 map with you on your trip. Trail Finder is not intended to be a comprehensive resource along this trail.

Other Information

To learn more about this region and plan your trip, visit the Northern Forest Canoe Trail website. There you can:

  • Buy waterproof maps and a guidebook, which describe local regulations and attractions
  • Use the Trip Planner Map Tool to locate outfitters, guides, and other amenities 
  • Learn about the trail and its unique history
  • Become a Northern Forest Canoe Trail member or volunteer
  • And much more!

INTERNATIONAL BORDER: The NFCT cross the US-Canada border in this section. All paddlers must register at customs in Glen Sutton (when entering Quebec) or East Richford (when entering the US). For more information: US Customs and Border Protection - www.cbp.gov, 802-848-7786; or Canada Border Services Agency- https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca, 450-538-3234.  

WATER CONSUMPTION: The Mississquoi River passes through active agricultural land. The NFCT recommends bringing water from known safe sources for your trip.

AQUATIC NUISANCE STICKERS: All boats must display an aquatic nuisance inspection sticker while on the Canadian side of Lake Memphremagog. Stickers can be acquired at the Newport City Dock or at Perkins Landing.

CAMPING RESERVATIONS: Camping in this section is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. This section of the NFCT goes through private lands. Camping and access sites along this section of trail are a result of NFCT collaboration with the partners and landowners. Please respect landowners and use only designated access points and campgrounds.

PRIVATE LAND CONSIDERATION: Many trails are comprised of both public and private land. Trail organizations work to secure landowner agreements and maintain public use through stewardship and maintenance efforts. Each campsite, trail, and access point may have a different code of conduct required by trail users. More information about specific user requirements and guidelines can be found in the resources -- website, map, or guidebook -- provided by the trail manager. As a trail user it is important to understand and uphold these codes of conduct to allow future use of these locations.

Trail Manager

Visit Northern Forest Canoe Trail online for more information or contact:

Northern Forest Canoe Trail

Northern Forest Canoe Trail
Noah Pollack
PO Box 565
Waitsfield, VT 05673
Phone: 802-496-2285
info@northernforestcanoetrail.org
View website

Trail Tips

Leave What You Find
Avoid the introduction or transport of non-native species. Clean, drain, and dry water equipment when moving between water bodies.
Legend
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Trailhead Information

There are many access points to the NFCT in Vermont. Parking areas are marked by icons on the map. For more information, visit the Northern Forest Canoe Trail website.

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
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Trail Alerts

Safety
Be a Safe and Respectful Paddler
Paddling conditions will vary according to the weather and season, so always exercise caution and always wear a lifejacket. With good judgment and proper equipment, the risk associated with paddling can me minimized. Respect the natural world and the rights of landowners, and be considerate of other outdoor enthusiasts. Paddlers should seek to avoid causing erosion, trampling vegetation, disturbing wildlife, and harming water quality.
Ecology
Stop the Spread of Aquatic Invasives
When moving from one body of water to another make sure to do the following to stop the spread of invasive aquatic organisms: - Visually inspect your craft and remove plants, mud and debris - Eliminate water from all of your equipment - Clean and dry anything that came into contact with water - Wear quick-drying shoes
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