When I lived in Jericho, I used to take a half-hour during my work day to go for a walk in the park and clear my mind. In the winter, it was easy to throw on a pair of snowshoes and go for a quick hike. At the time, it was pretty easy to take it for granted.
Update 2024: The covered bridge below was replaced in 2021 by a standard type bridge. Sad to see it no longer there.
This weekend, I was driving through Underhill and thought I'd take a short hike through the park. Like an old friend you haven't seen in awhile, it was very refreshing. Lots of wide, open spaces and just a few people out walking their dogs. The only sounds to be heard were crickets and an occasional car from Rte. 15. The wildflowers were in hearty abundance and Mt. Mansfield loomed in the distance, capped by puffy, white clouds.
Except for one thing. The familiar, old covered bridge is no longer there.
Mills Riverside Park Update 2024
Nestled in the quaint town of Jericho, Vermont, Mills Riverside Park beckons nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike with its captivating landscapes and abundant offerings. Spanning 216 acres of verdant meadows, lush woodlands, and the meandering Browns River, this idyllic oasis presents a breathtaking backdrop against the majestic silhouette of Mt. Mansfield.
For those seeking an invigorating outdoor experience, the park boasts over six miles of winding hiking trails that traverse through diverse terrains, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the region's natural splendor. Picnickers can savor their delectable spreads within the park's inviting shelters, while athletic enthusiasts can indulge in a multitude of sports on the well-maintained fields.
Dog Friendly
Furry companions are welcomed with open arms, as the park features an off-leash area where they can frolic and explore to their heart's content. When winter's icy embrace descends, the park transforms into a wonderland, offering opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing amid the pristine, snow-blanketed landscapes.
As the warm summer months unfold, Mills Riverside Park comes alive with a vibrant energy. The Wednesday Summer Concert Series fills the air with the melodies of live musical performances, creating a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy. Furthermore, the park hosts a bustling Farmers' Market every Thursday, where locals and visitors alike can savor the region's bounty, from farm-fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to mouthwatering baked goods and handcrafted treasures.
One of the park's most endearing qualities is its pet-friendly nature, allowing furry companions to cool off in the refreshing waters of the Browns River during the warmer months. For those seeking solace and tranquility, Mills Riverside Park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, with its vast open spaces and serene ambiance, inviting visitors to bask in the beauty of nature and recharge their spirits.
With its diverse array of recreational opportunities, community events, and a welcoming atmosphere that embraces both humans and their four-legged friends, Mills Riverside Park in Jericho, Vermont, stands as a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike, offering a harmonious blend of natural splendor, outdoor adventures, and cherished moments of respite.
The Jericho Underhill Land trust is best known for its establishment of the Mills Riverside Park in 1999. The Park is centrally located, behind two schools and the town library, and is comprised of 216 acres, including 83 acres of open meadowland and 133 acres of forested hillside terrain that provides both wildlife habitat and a wonderful vista of Mt. Mansfield. Today the Park is home to a weekly farmer’s market, music and sports events, and educational projects, as well as serving as a quiet retreat. The Mills Riverside Park is owned and managed by the Jericho Underhill Park District.
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