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Enjoy these stories from the Kingdom along with area updates and fun ways to stay connected.
The Kingdom Awaits
Welcome to the Northeast Kingdom, Enduro World Series!
Whether you’re attending both days of the international mountain biking Enduro World Series event at Burke Mountain on August 13-14 or happen to be passing through the area that same weekend, explore what this week holds for our corner of Vermont.
ABOUT THE AREA
You’ve arrived in the Northeast Kingdom. Bordered by Canada and northern New Hampshire, the Kingdom is a hub for mountain biking, great local bites and brews, and some of Vermont’s most scenic locations.
The ENDURO race takes place at Burke Mountain, located in the Eastern Trek area of the Kingdom. Explore the communities in and around St. Johnsbury, Lyndon, Burke, and Island Pond. Depending how far you follow the Eastern Trek, you may end up reaching some of Vermont’s most remote destinations including Canaan.
Area Events
Lyndon Farmer’s Market
Friday afternoon and the go-to spot in town for fresh produce, VT-made goods, and live performances from area musicians. As you mingle with locals, get suggestions on how to spend your time.
Food Truck Popup, St. Johnsbury
Come order dinner and dessert from the region’s favorite food vendors, listen to live music, and play a game of corn hole on the lawn at the new Three Rivers Path Trailhead Pavilion at 195 Bay Street. The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is just a short stroll or bike ride away, if you need to stretch your legs after all those goodies.
Tuesday Night Gravel Ride with Land Animal Adventures, St. Johnsbury
This social, no-drop ride is appropriate for those new to the sport or seasoned bikers. Meet up at the new Lamoille Valley Rail Trailhead Pavilion on Bay Street and bring a friend and meet some other gravel bike enthusiasts. Routes will be chosen to accommodate the group.
WHERE TO STAY
Whether you are looking to camp under the stars, kick-up your feet in luxury, or rent a cabin out in the woods, there are lodging options for everyone in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.
The Northeast Kingdom also has a thriving Airbnb and vacation rental home market, and we encourage you to research those options as well. Want to stay closer to other Kingdom amenities or looking to stay awhile? Explore other unique options with our Where to Stay list.
WHERE TO EAT
Experience the Kingdom through our thriving local cuisine and craft beer scene. Dine at award-winning breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and quaint coffee shops, plus farmers’ markets galore – be sure to pack your appetite.
EXPLORE THE AREA
If the races have got you feeling pumped and you’re looking for a trail to ride or an exhilarating hike, check out the other Kingdom attractions.
Bike
Your ultimate resource: NEKgravel
While Kingdom Trails is a fantastic trail network and we encourage you to come back to experience it for yourself, the race weekend crowds will be intense. Try the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail in St. J or check out NEKgravel for other area options.
Before you set off on the trails, remember to Ride With Gratitude (and get a sweet sticker).
Hiking/Swimming
We recommend using apps including TrailFinder, AllTrails, and Vermont State Parks for a comprehensive list of all hiking and recreational trails in the Northeast Kingdom.
St Johnsbury: Enjoy hiking at Dog Mountain (check out the Stephen Huneck Dog Chapel while you’re there) or a walk through the Town Forest.
Lyndon: Explore the Lyndon State Forest or Lyndon Outing Club, a four-season recreation hub with summer hiking and biking trails.
Island Pond: Brighton State Park is a popular destination offering hiking, swimming, boating, paddle-boarding and fishing with camping sites and cabins available for rental. Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge boasts a great riverside trail and views.
Looking for something more remote and willing to drive? Check out Maidstone State Park, about an hour ago from Burke Mountain.
EXPAND YOUR STAY
St. Johnsbury
In the southeastern corner of the Northeast Kingdom lies St. Johnsbury, a bustling community of creatives, adventure-seekers, and foodies alike. Outdoor recreation is part of the fabric of St. J.
For more information on how to spend your time in St. Johnsbury. For local itineraries, scavenger hunts, and a list of ongoing events, visit Discover St. Johnsbury’s website.
Lyndon
As you make your way up the Eastern Trek, you’ll arrive in Lyndon. Often a gateway for visitors traveling to Burke Mountain or Kingdom Trails, Lyndon is located along the Passumpsic River.
Fun fact: Lyndon is known as the covered bridge capital of the Northeast Kingdom and is home to five covered bridges. The Lyndon Area Chamber of Commerce is a great resource to help plan.
Burke
While Burke Mountain is hosting the ENDURO race, you’ll find each section of this community has something to offer. Comprised of three villages – East Burke, Burke Hollow, and West Burke – this area offers locally owned restaurants, cafes and a craft brewery are here to feed your appetite, and don’t be surprised if you pass by a farm stand or two as you meander through town.
Get ready for rolling hills, expansive vistas, and miles of backroads and trails are waiting for you in here.
The Burke Area Chamber of Commerce lists vacation packages, trip ideas, and a directory of local businesses and organizations.
Island Pond
Located in the Town of Brighton, Island Pond is one of Vermont’s best kept secrets. You’ll find the pristine Island Pond Lake, a historical district, and Bluff Mountain.
Enjoy outdoor activities including fishing, hunting, swimming, hiking, biking, canoeing, horseback riding, and scenic lake cruises.
Visit Discover Island Pond for more info on local small stores and shops, restaurants, and a few lodging offerings, perfect for stocking up or refueling after a long day.