VMBA Trail Grant Projects!

Your participation in action! VMBA has awarded five chapters trail building grants for 2015.

Fellowship of the Wheel was awarded $6100 for maintenance on the Carse Hills trail network including benching, out-sloping, de-rooting, tread-widening, and general shred preparation. Carse Hills is one of the gems of Fellowship’s network – combining a challenging climb to the top of an old-growth beech forest ridge top with an all-time descent that combines the best of technical cross-country with Vermont-style natural features that challenge all riders. 

As part of RASTA’s ongoing long term proposal with the USFS, RASTA will be using $2100 of VMBA grant to help fund the beginning of a long distance single track trail network similar to those out west. RASTA’s ‘phase 1’ efforts will focus on the design and build of a connector single track trail from Chittenden Brook Campground to Morrill Brook in Pittsfield. RASTA also plans to incorporate the VMBA grant funding into its RTP proposal as part of the matching requirement.

The Mad River Riders’ GMNF Blueberry Lake network is known for its fun-for-all abilities trails. Due to help from VMBA’s Trail Grant, we are able to continue adding new routes. The next phase is a 1/2 mile intermediate to expert connector between Lenord’s Loop and Meadow View (Field Loop), featuring rock lines and extensive bridging. Officially opened in May 2013, Blueberry Lake has quickly become the most popular hiking and biking destination in the Mad River Valley and is an important pilot project with the USFS!

The Brewster River Mountain Bike Club, based in the Cambridge/Jeffersonville area was awarede $1880 and has embarked on a new project to be called the “Midlands” located off Clif Reynolds Road in Cambridge, near the intersection with Edwards Road, on property owned by the VLT. The first phase of the network will consist of several singletrack loops. Work has started on an easy perimeter loop, and upon completion this coming spring, additional more challenging loops will be planned and added. Thanks to VLT for their cooperation and interest, to Beckner Bryan who originally owned the property and set it aside for conservation through VLT.  

Middlebury Bike Club was awarded $500 for trail signage. 

VMBA is proud to award these chapters funding to assist their efforts on the ground, without which our unique riding scene in Vermont wouldn’t be nearly as much fun. Well done chapters!