Finding beginner-friendly trail networks to ride with kids can feel challenging amid Vermont’s iconic rolling hills and mountains, despite the state offering some of the region’s top trails. You can find an exciting variety of terrain here, ranging from fast, flowing routes to rugged, technical tracks with features like rock rolls, drops, bridges, skinnies, and jumps.
While these uphill grinds are often daunting for beginners and young riders on smaller wheels, several options make Vermont’s incredible trails accessible for everyone. We have discovered routes that keep the whole family motivated and the stoke high for downhills, usually by walking steep switchbacks, embracing frequent snack breaks, and accepting that some climbing is just part of the experience. Here are a few of my top choices for outings with my 6-year-old on his 20” bike, as well as my 2-year-old riding shotgun.
Cady Hill, managed by Stowe Trails Partnership, is our go-to network when riding with the whole family. Starting at the Ranch Camp lot, you can find a moderate climb to the top of the network by following Charlie’s to Eagle Ridge, then onto the Green Chair loop. There are a few descent options, but my son’s top choice is Florence with its fast, flowy track. We love stopping by the Backyard or Ranch Camp for a well-deserved meal or snack to wrap up our day.
Another fantastic spot for riders of all levels is Saxon Hill in Essex, maintained by Fellowship of the Wheel. On the west side, you’ll find gentle green trails with minimal elevation changes, making it ideal for beginners. Mo Flow and Paper Route are great trails to start on. For a little more challenge, head to the east side of the network where you will find some blue trails with friendly, moderate climbs to some fun, flowy downhill trails. The Low Flow Loop is a great place to start.
Blueberry Lake is a family-friendly network found in the Mad River Valley that offers a mix of green and blue trails with easy climbs, smooth paths, and flowy descents. Managed by the Mad River Riders, this network is perfect for all ages and skill levels. During the summer, they host weekly Mad River Ripper rides for kids as young as 2-4 years old on balance bikes up to older teens looking for a more adventurous group ride. The group rides are a great way to explore the network of trails while meeting other families who share the same passion for biking.
Ascutney Trails Association offers a variety of green trails, with our favorite being the Swoops and Loops Trail at Mount Ascutney State Park. This 3.5-mile loop is perfect for a family adventure with gentle, rolling terrain. We love setting up a base camp at the park’s campground, making it easy to bike straight from our tent to the trail.
Like many 6-year-olds, my son loves the downhill but isn’t thrilled about the climb. That’s why ski resorts with lift-access downhill biking have become a fun alternative for us. If you ask him, his favorite trail is Bolton Valley Resort’s Ebasootcha, a nearly 3.5-mile green flow trail with easy berms, wide bridges, and a gentle, extended descent. Bolton Valley is fantastic for families, where kids can ride to their hearts’ content and follow it up with creamees and a refreshing dip in the pool at Bolton’s Sports Center.
Stratton Mountain Resort is another kid-friendly spot for downhill riding. We found several fun, easy trails that were perfect for our son, with Trail Forest One being a favorite. After cruising down the trails, we enjoyed relaxing in the Adirondack chairs near the base lodge while the kids hoolahooped and played on the wide, open lawn. Stratton also offers a variety of on-site shops, restaurants, and scenic gondola rides, making it a great place for a full day of family fun.
These trails are just a glimpse of the incredible mountain biking Vermont has to offer. Mountain biking is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors with your kids. Finding trails the whole family can enjoy will help instill a love for biking that will hopefully last a lifetime. With 28 Chapters spread across the state, there are endless places to explore. Connect with your local chapters for even more kid-friendly recommendations and discover new spots to enjoy together. Vermont’s trails are waiting to create unforgettable family memories!
