MTBVT staff contributors Danielle Owczarski and Jimmy Deshler check in from the early season trails.
We’re all getting antsy waiting for our favorite trails to dry out. Sure, pedaling the local bike path or glopping up your tires on a local back road is a great way to get back in biking shape, but we’re all ready to hit the single-track and feel the flow on our favorite trail.
I’ve started my annual spring habit of checking local trail reports, hoping to get the official go ahead from the caretakers of my preferred single-track. As of this writing most trails throughout the state are still closed. Considering the amount of snow that fell late in the ski season it will take some time for the higher elevation trail systems to dry out. Fortunately, there are some great networks with well-designed trails and quick draining soils that provide the opportunity to get out and pedal.
Pine Hill Park in Rutland has opened for the season. This trail network has 16 miles of single-track with a variety of terrain for riders of all levels. Sunny Hollow Natural Area in Colchester, a great choice for beginner and intermediate riders (as well as those looking to get the cobwebs out of their crank) is also drying out quickly.
If you head to either of these networks please be aware that they are not entirely dry at this point. Avoid trails if your tires are leaving a rut. If you do find yourself approaching a puddle it’s best to pedal right through it, going around will widen the trail, cause erosion and harm trailside vegetation. Plus, it’s fun to get muddy!
Click below to see current trail conditions. Don’t forget to sign up and become a VMBA member today, support these local trails!
