Recommended updates to an aquatic entry point
Town/Region: Swanton, Vermont
Website: https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Missisquoi%20Boating%20Guide%20_reduced_0.pdf
Access Point Snapshot
| Distance to Water | Water Access | Site Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| The trail is ~85 feet from the parking area to the water’s edge with reasonable grades. | The 53-foot concrete boat ramp, with a slope of less than 5%, provides a generally accessible entry point. | Popular and often crowded. Limited shade with potential for wind exposure. |
| Future Adaptive Use | Parking/Restrooms | Area Map |
|---|---|---|
| Canoes and kayaks | Spacious parking lot with two designated parking spaces. There is no bathroom at Louie’s Landing. Restrooms are available at Mac’s Bend and the Visitor’s Center. | Area map |
About the Trails
Louie’s Landing is part of the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge and offers year round access for exploring the refuge on the Missisquoi River. From the Louie’s Landing launch point visitors can access the river mouth, Dead Creek Loop, and Dead Creek Mouth.
Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1943, consists of 6,760 acres and the entire Missisquoi River Delta. Recently designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, Missisquoi’s wetland habitats are protected and managed for a wide diversity of wildlife species and habitats.
Recommended Updates
An accessibility assessment was completed in December 2024 by VT Adaptive, as part of the Accessibility Initiative. A series of site visits were conducted to to evaluate the accessibility of five water access locations along the Missisquoi River. The assessments aimed to identify existing barriers, note features supporting individuals with disabilities, and propose actionable recommendations to improve inclusivity. This report outlines the methodology, findings for each site, and suggested improvements for accessible recreation opportunities.
Several refinements were recommended to improve access and accommodations for people with disabilities. The recommended updates include the following areas:
- Install benches along the main trail and near the water’s edge.
- Add an accessible restroom at this access area so paddlers don’t need to leave to find one.
- Secure unsafe areas near the water with railings or signage to prevent falls.
- Explore adding a small shelter or shaded seating for increased comfort.
View the Completed Accessibility Assessment
*Louie’s Landing was one of several sites evaluated in the Missisquoi River Accessibility Assessments. The report includes all of the evaluated sites.
Partners
Vermont Trail Accessibility Hub partners:
Funding
Grant funding for the water accessibility assessment: Vermont Trail Accessibility Hub
Key Learning: Minimal Updates Can Improve Accessibility
Louie’s Landing is well-suited for users with disabilities, but could benefit from a few additional upgrades. In addition to the recommendations to improve accessibility, NFCT also plans to map out suggested routes of travel for canoeing or kayaking from the launch at Louie’s Landing, and to engage with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for a partnership to start improvements.
