Bike Borderlands Doubles to 16 Trail Networks, Boosting Vermont’s Outdoor Economy
In Vermont, where outdoor recreation drives tourism and local business, the addition of Stowe, Catamount, and Memphremagog networks amplifies the state’s appeal to adventurers and families alike.
The Bike Borderlands collaborative, a powerhouse in promoting mountain biking across the Northeast, has doubled its reach from eight to 16 trail networks, now spanning Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Québec. To celebrate, the group is challenging bikers, runners, and walkers to visit as many of these networks as possible this season through a Strava-based competition, spotlighting the region’s growing reputation as a world-class outdoor destination.
Launched in 2018 by the Northern Forest Center, Bike Borderlands unites mountain bike organizations and land managers to champion responsible riding, inclusive access, and trail stewardship. The expansion welcomes eight new networks, including three in Vermont—Stowe Trails Partnership, Catamount Outdoor Family Center, and Memphremagog Trails—alongside New York’s Wheelerville Trails, Upper Hudson Trails Alliance, and Barkeater Trails Alliance, New Hampshire’s White Mountains NEMBA, and Maine’s Moosehead Outdoor Alliance. These join existing members like Vermont’s Kingdom Trails and Craftsbury Outdoor Center, collectively managing hundreds of miles of trails across the Northern Forest.
“This growth is a game-changer,” said Joe Fox, Outdoor Recreation Manager at the Northern Forest Center. “It strengthens our ability to support rural economies, promote environmental stewardship, and connect communities through sustainable trails.” In Vermont, where outdoor recreation drives tourism and local business, the addition of Stowe, Catamount, and Memphremagog networks amplifies the state’s appeal to adventurers and families alike.
The new Vermont networks bring diverse offerings. Stowe Trails Partnership, known for its flowy singletrack and stunning Green Mountain views, is a must-ride for locals and visitors. Catamount Outdoor Family Center in Williston offers beginner-friendly loops and community events, while Memphremagog Trails in Newport provides rugged, scenic routes near Lake Memphremagog. “Joining Bike Borderlands lets us share solutions and best practices,” said Michael Kiser of Memphremagog Trails. “It aligns perfectly with our goals of sustainable trails and boosting the local economy.”
The collaborative’s growth also fuels initiatives like the Ride with Gratitude campaign, which promotes respectful trail use, and enhances regional marketing to draw riders to Vermont’s unique communities. From Stowe’s vibrant dining scene to Newport’s lakeside charm, these destinations offer more than just trails—they’re gateways to the state’s culture and natural beauty.
“BETA’s inclusion in Bike Borderlands is a testament to the quality of our trails,” said Glenn Glover of New York’s Barkeater Trails Alliance. “We’re excited to collaborate with groups like those in Vermont to elevate the region’s trail culture.” With networks ranging from volunteer-run to professionally staffed, and trail systems spanning 15 to over 100 miles, Bike Borderlands fosters a shared commitment to sustainability and community.
For Vermonters, the Strava challenge is a chance to explore local gems and neighboring states while supporting rural economies. Whether pedaling through Stowe’s forests or rolling over Moosehead Junction’s signature features in Maine, participants can log their adventures and connect with the Northern Forest’s landscapes. “These trails weave through diverse ecosystems and vibrant communities,” Fox said. “They’re an invitation to get outside, stay active, and discover what makes Vermont and the region so special.”