Island Pond to Canaan: Kendyl's Buns on the Run Serves Snowmobilers Hot Dogs

Making a pit stop during a ride is a necessity, especially when you’re far from any town. When that pit stop is only accessible via snowmobile, it makes it even more special. Some of the best moments on a long snowmobile day come when you hop off the sled, take off your helmet, and smell something hot on the grill. If you are riding the Island Pond to Canaan loop in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, that moment is waiting for you at Norton at Kendyl's Buns on the Run.

Getting lost sometimes has its benefits, as it’ll lead you to Kendyl’s Buns on the Run or April’s Maple. This guide covers what the stop is, what to order, how it fits into the Island Pond to Canaan ride, and how to plan around the conditions so your lunch break goes as smoothly as your trail miles.

What Is Kendyl's Buns on the Run?

Kendyl's Buns on the Run is a seasonal trailside food business in Norton, Vermont, along Trail 105 W. You can't get there by car, making it a true snowmobiler's stop. Because it sits out on the trail, it also depends entirely on the weather and trail conditions.

The idea reportedly grew out of a garage party, the kind of winter gathering that is common across the Northeast Kingdom. Proprietor Kendyl Bell now serves riders who stop in for a quick bite or a friendly chat to warm up and fuel up their bodies before getting back on the trail. When you’re not meeting other riders through the TrailIntel app, you can certainly meet them at the trail hot dog stand.

What Is on the Menu?

The food is simple and built for cold weather. Expect hot dogs, bratwurst, pulled pork, and chili, all made with meat from Kendyl's parents' cows and pigs. You'll also find chips, popcorn, and granola bars for your jacket pocket, plus hot chocolate, coffee, water, and soda.

Kendyl describes it as hot, good-quality, simple food. After a few hours of cold air and trail vibration, that is exactly the kind of meal most riders want.

Why Island Pond Is the Place to Start

Island Pond is widely known as Vermont's snowmobile capital. It is a small village in the town of Brighton, sitting beside the lake it is named after. Riders choose it for its parking and its easy access to trails, including VAST trails that pass through the village and routes through Brighton State Park.

The snowmobile season around Island Pond generally runs from mid-December to early April, though it shifts with snowfall. Riders age 12 and older need to complete an approved Vermont snowmobile safety course before using the statewide trail system.

A Simple Dining Itinerary for the Loop

Kendyl Bell suggests a route for hungry riders that makes a great day plan.

1. Start in Island Pond. Park, fuel up, and check trail conditions before you head out.
2. Stop at Kendyl's Buns on the Run in Norton. Grab a hot dog, brat, or cup of chili on Trail 105 W and warm up.
3. Continue to April's Maple in Canaan. Make it your sit-down lunch stop. Even before it had a year-round café, snowmobilers found their way to this sugarhouse for hot dogs and warmth.

Pairing a quick trailside snack with a longer lunch lets you pace your day, and it supports two small local businesses that cater to riders.

Tips for Planning Your Stop

• Check conditions first. Since the stop is weather-dependent and off the road system, confirm trail and stop status before you ride.
• Follow the business online. Kendyl's Buns on the Run posts updates on Facebook at bunsontherunvt.
• Bring a little cash and a little patience. Small seasonal stops can get busy on good snow days.
• Pack out your trash. Leave the trailside spot as clean as you found it.
• Ride within your limits. Dress in layers, carry a charged phone, and tell someone your route.

Plan the ride with TrailIntel. Use the TrailIntel app to see snowmobile trails and points of interest, plus live updates on trail and road conditions and hazards, so you know what to expect between Island Pond, Norton, and Canaan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kendyl's Buns on the Run?

It is a seasonal trailside stop on Trail 105 W in Norton, Vermont, in the Northeast Kingdom.

Can you drive to Kendyl's Buns on the Run?

No. It is not accessible by car, so you get there by snowmobile, depending on the weather.

What does Kendyl's Buns on the Run serve?

Hot dogs, bratwurst, pulled pork, and chili made with meat from the owner's parents' cows and pigs, plus snacks and hot drinks.

Where should I eat after Kendyl's Buns on the Run?

Kendyl Bell recommends April's Maple in Canaan for lunch.

Final Thoughts

The Island Pond to Canaan loop is about more than miles. It is about the stops that make a ride memorable, and a hot dog handed to you on the trail in Norton is hard to beat. Where else in the world can you get that? Check conditions, fuel the sled, and save room for lunch in Canaan.