The Mountain Times

By Katy Savage and Polly Mikula Once complete, the Velomont will be the largest hut-supported trail network in the U.S. consisting of a network of 485 miles of trail, connecting 23 Vermont mountain biking chapters across public and private lands, and linking 27 communities as it run the length of Vermont. A total of 30 to 45 new huts and five hostels are also planned to offer overnight accommodations along the trail.

By Polly Mikula Mountain biking in Vermont is no longer a niche sport tucked into the woods. It has become one of the state’s fastest-growing and most visible forms of outdoor recreation — drawing local riders, destination travelers, families, adaptive athletes and volunteers into a trail network that continues to expand. The sport also expands the summer season in Vermont, with riders eager to get back on the trails as soon as they open in May and riding deep into October.

By Polly Mikula Divas of Dirt group rides are for ladies interested in learning and practicing skills in a supportive and fun environment. Skills covered include: body position, visual skills, braking, balance, cornering, off-camber work, rock gardens, high speed cornering, descents, drops and other skills, based on group needs/interest and time. “The women there are so incredible,” said Ali Hannon, from Chittenden.

Every Wednesday afternoon from 2-5 p.m. riders of all ages with a need for speed will be racing at Killington Resort then celebrating together at an after party. The local race series is all about fun and friendly competition and it’s been going strong entering its 11th year this summer. The 2026 season runs June 25 – Aug. 27. All racers must check in at the top of the race course before 4:30 p.m. each week. Individuals may enter a single race for $20.

Slate Valley Women’s Ride, Wednesdays Wednesdays,throughout the summer women riders meet at the Lake St. Catherine Country Club (2725 Route 30) in Poultney for a weekly Women’s Mountain Bike Group Ride. This is a no-drop ride and all are welcome. Arrive at 5:30 p.m. for departure at 6 p.m. The ride is varying distances 6-10 miles. Groups self-select into groups: beginner or intermediate/advanced to be able to accommodate any rider of varying pace and experience.

Skip to main content Skip to footer June 19 Full Send Friday: Downhill The Full Send Fridays series is a three-part summer competition featuring Downhill, Enduro, and Dual Slalom. Each event delivers a unique style of racing, creating a well-rounded series that rewards speed, skill, and consistency across multiple disciplines. Downhill is June 19, Enduro is July 24 and Dual Slalom is Aug. 21. Points are awarded at each event based on finishing position, contributing to overall series rankings.

By Amy Simone/ UVM Extension Master Gardener It is hard not to watch in amazement when you see a hummingbird flitting around. These iridescent beauties with their acrobatic flight movements are reminiscent of fairies. Thankfully, with a few purposefully chosen plants, you can convince these adorable birds to spend more time in your garden. Hummingbirds are named for the humming sound that their wings make when they are in flight.

Question: “My dog’s hair covers his eyes and his nails desperately need trimming, but he hates the groomer. What should I do?” Answer: You’re certainly not alone. Many dogs find visits to the groomer or veterinarian stressful, especially if they’ve had an unpleasant experience in the past. The good news is that grooming doesn’t have to be something your dog simply endures. With patience, we can often help them feel much more comfortable with the whole process.

Nothing says Vermont to me more than cutting our own lavender while sipping cocktails made with said lavender, all while surrounded by vendors selling their handmade wares. It was, as one vendor friend put it, the “sweetest little festival” they had ever seen.

It is a personal priority to provide practical information to Killington Resort and Hospitality students for both their future jobs and their everyday safety. When it comes to tornadoes, I always joke that it’s best to step aside when one approaches, since tornadoes tend to travel in straight lines toward the northeast. I take the joke further and tell them we’re generally safe from tornadoes and should never leave Killington.