A border mill town
Tucked against the Canadian border at the foot of the Green Mountains, Richford is Franklin County’s easternmost town — defined by the winding Missisquoi River, dense timberland and mountain peaks. In the 19th and early 20th centuries it thrived as a lumber-mill and international railway town, and its historic homes and border-station architecture give it a quiet northern character today.
The end of the rail trail
Richford marks the official eastern terminus — Mile 26.3 — of the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, which begins 26 miles west in St. Albans and passes through Sheldon and Enosburg Falls along the way. Cyclists finishing the end-to-end ride are rewarded with mountain peaks framing the Richford valley.
Trout fishing & paddling
The cool, oxygenated upper Missisquoi near Richford is prime water for wild brook, brown and rainbow trout, and a scenic paddle threads northern hardwood forest with frequent moose and deer sightings along the banks.
A quiet Jay Peak basecamp
Richford sits about 15 minutes west of Jay Peak Resort, making it an affordable, uncrowded base for winter skiers and summer mountain bikers. The nine-hole Richford Country Club adds mountain-view golf along the river valley.
Local stops
Richford keeps things simple and friendly.
The River Street Grill — a local tavern for burgers, fish and chips and cold beer.
Community Park — riverside walking paths, playgrounds and picnic shelters.
Good to know
What is Richford known for?+
Being the mountain-and-river eastern end of the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, cold-water trout fishing, and a quiet base near Jay Peak.
How far is Jay Peak?+
About 15 minutes east by car, making Richford a budget-friendly alternative to staying at the resort.
Is the fishing good?+
Yes — the upper Missisquoi and its mountain tributaries hold wild brook, brown and rainbow trout.