What's Happening?
Vermont is developing an extensive 485-mile mountain biking trail network called Velomont, which will span the entire state. The first multi-day segment, the 38-mile Heart of the Greens Loop, opened in 2024. This loop traverses Pittsfield and Rochester
in central Vermont, offering over 5,700 feet of vertical elevation, swimming holes, and views of the Green Mountains. The Velomont project is designed for bikepacking, allowing riders to carry their gear for multi-day trips, and includes on-trail lodging options such as the Chittenden Brook Hut and the Spikehorn Yurt. The Chittenden Brook Hut, located in Green Mountain National Forest, can accommodate 10 people and is ADA accessible, while the Spikehorn Yurt sleeps six and features a propane cooktop. The full Velomont trail, which will connect 27 communities, is projected to be completed between 2031 and 2036, depending on funding, and will be the largest hut-supported trail network in the U.S.
Why It's Important?
The development of the Velomont trail network represents a significant investment in Vermont's outdoor recreation and tourism economy. By offering a unique, multi-day bikepacking experience with integrated lodging, the project aims to attract a new segment of adventure tourists, boosting local economies in the 27 communities it will connect. This initiative could lead to increased revenue for small businesses, including hospitality services, gear rentals, and food establishments, along the trail. The emphasis on sustainable tourism through bikepacking and on-trail lodging aligns with growing consumer preferences for eco-friendly travel. Furthermore, the project's scale and ambition to become the largest hut-supported trail network in the U.S. could establish Vermont as a premier destination for mountain biking, enhancing its brand as an outdoor adventure hub and potentially creating new job opportunities in trail maintenance, guiding, and hospitality.
What's Next?
The completion of the Velomont trail network is contingent on securing sufficient funding, with a projected timeline between 2031 and 2036. The Vermont Huts & Trails and the Vermont Mountain Bike Association, leading the project, will continue fundraising efforts and coordinating with various stakeholders, including local communities and land managers. As more segments of the trail open, there will be a focus on promoting the network to national and international mountain biking communities. This will involve developing marketing campaigns, establishing booking systems for huts and yurts, and potentially organizing events to draw attention to the new trails. Local communities will need to prepare for increased visitor traffic, potentially investing in infrastructure and services to support the influx of bikepackers. The success of the Heart of the Greens Loop will likely serve as a model and a testing ground for the broader Velomont project.
Beyond the Headlines
The Velomont project goes beyond simply creating a recreational trail; it embodies a vision for sustainable rural development and community revitalization. By linking 27 communities, the trail has the potential to foster economic interdependence and cultural exchange across the state. The integration of on-trail lodging, such as huts and yurts, reflects an innovative approach to outdoor tourism that minimizes environmental impact while maximizing visitor comfort and accessibility. This initiative could also inspire similar large-scale, multi-community trail projects in other states, setting a precedent for how outdoor recreation can drive economic growth and promote healthy lifestyles. The long-term success of Velomont will depend not only on its physical completion but also on effective management, community engagement, and continuous adaptation to the evolving needs of outdoor enthusiasts, potentially transforming Vermont's identity as an outdoor adventure destination.
