Millstone Hill Touring and Recreation Center
Since July of 2009, tickets, maps and access to the Millstone Hill Trails originate from the new Touring Center located in a restored historic general store at 34 Church Hill Rd. in the village of Websterville, just around the corner from the Lodge. In addition to information on the Millstone Hill Trails, the Touring Center features a collection of Vermont food products, crafts, art and antiques, as well as a small bike shop with basic repair parts and accessories. A fleet of Jamis bikes is available for rentals. Also located in the adjoining space is the Vermont Granite Museum at Millstone Hill. The museum’s three room self guided exhibit displays artifacts, photography and educational materiel relating to the history of quarrying at Millstone Hill, which helps explain the story behind the many ruins and historic artifacts seen on the trails.
Vermont's Man-Made Natural Wonder
Millstone Hill Touring Center is Vermont's newest non-motorized Recreation Center. Over 1500 acres of unique terrain, with over 70 miles of scenic trails, provide access to dozens of historic quarry sites. At Millstone Hill there is something for every outdoor enthusiast:
- Ranked New England’s second-best mountain bike network by The Boston Globe, and one America's five best new mountain bike centers by Bike Magazine!
- Over 20 miles of scenic hiking trails leading to spectacular "grout" pile lookouts.
- Miles and miles of abandoned rail beds and old quarry roads providing moderate trails for family biking.
- In winter experience Millstone Hill on our 40 kilometers of groomed snowshoe and cross country ski trails.
One hundred years ago, Millstone Hill was the site of over 75 small independent quarry operations, fueling Barre's dramatic 19th century growth and prosperity. Virtually every square foot of millstone hill was cleared and quarried. During the 20th century, as quarry operations consolidated, these smaller independents closed down. Gradually the quarries filled with water and the forest returned. What was a virtual industrial wasteland was reclaimed by nature.
In 2005 over 1500 acres of Barre's Historic quarry lands were, for the first time ever, opened to the public. Miles and miles of recreation trails have been created giving access to several dozen historic quarry sites. In summer hike, bike or pinic on some of Vermont's most unique terrain. In winter experience Millstone Hill on skis or snowshoes. While enjoying our spectacular scenery and our amazing "grout" pile lookouts learn about Central Vermont's fascinating granite heritage.
Critical Acclaim
Check out the Millstone Hill Touring Center and see what the buzz is all about!
For mountain bikers visiting Vermont for the first time, or for grizzled locals who think they have ridden it all, the Millstone Hill Trails are not to be missed. What's more, they provide access to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the region.Burlington Free Press, July 4 2008
Barre is well-know for its world class granite, but is about to become famous for another reason....The Millstone Hill touring Center.Vermont Sports, Sept 2005
Great Trails...They're Awesome.Boston Globe, Oct 23, 2005
Millstone Hill will become both a recreational Mecca and a door to the amazing history of Barre's Granite Trade.Barre Montpelier Times Argus, June 2005
Lodging
Millstone Hill offers a variety of trail-side lodging. Whether you are looking for the first-class amenities of the Lodge at Millstone Hill, or the more affordable rustic setting of the Cottage at Millstone Hill, individual rooms or discounted group rates are available.
If camping is your preference, sweet trail-side primitive camp sites can be reserved.
- Beautiful mountain-top setting in Historic Barn
- Adirondack-inspired interior with 5 impeccably furnished rooms
- Full breakfast
- Classic 1830’s brick cape Farmhouse, fully restored
- Four charming bedrooms, all with private baths
- Sleeps up to ten people
- Sleeps up to nine people
- Full kitchen, outdoor shower
- Affordable individual rooms or discounted group rates
- Some sites nestled in unique rock pile settings
- Some sites with expansive mountain views
- Granite fire pits, outdoor showers