Biking in Southern Vermont

Biking is one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Southern Vermont, and the Deerfield Valley has a variety of trails for every type of biker. Whether you are looking for the adrenaline of downhill mountain biking, the challenge of cross country climbs, or a relaxing pedal through town we’ve got you covered.

Here are a few of our favorite biking spots, or you can see all the areas trails by visiting our Hiking & Biking Trail directory.

Horace Hill

Horace Hill Recreation Area is a purpose-built trail system in West Dover, offering a modern, bike-optimized experience across 53 acres of scenic hillside. Designed by the experts at Sinuosity, the network features a dedicated climbing trail, Play Nice, which provides a manageable, low-grade ascent through historic sugarbushes and stone foundations. From the summit, riders can choose their descent based on skill level, ranging from the high-speed berms and rollers of the intermediate Wide Open to the technical, rock-strewn challenges of the black-diamond Cannonball Run.

Centrally located off Route 100, this 4-mile network is celebrated for its intentional design and excellent drainage, making it a reliable destination for progressive riding. Whether you are a beginner practicing on the gentle Sap Bucket or an expert lapping the technical singletrack, the system offers a clear path for skill development. With its proximity to local amenities and the integration of a professional disc golf course, Horace Hill serves as a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation in the heart of the Deerfield Valley.

Crosstown Trails

Located in West Dover, VT, the Crosstown Trail Network is a versatile, multi-use pod managed by the Southern Vermont Trails Association (SoVTA). It serves as a perfect complement to the high-intensity downhill riding at nearby Mount Snow, offering a more natural, cross-country experience for all skill levels.

The network is split into two distinct areas, offering a “choose your own adventure” feel:

• South Side (Family & Adaptive Friendly): Featuring gentle, flowing rollers and banked turns, this area is designed for beginners and adaptive riders. Trails like Sherwood Forest and Friar Tuck offer smooth singletrack with manageable root sections and low elevation changes.Southern Vermont Trails Association+ 1
• North Side (Technical Singletrack): For those seeking a traditional New England challenge, the North Side provides “blue” difficulty trails like Robin Hood and Crusades. Expect technical rock slabs, tighter turns, water crossings, and punchy, root-filled climbs.

Hoot, Toot, & Whistle Trail

The Hoot, Toot, & Whistle is a multi-use trail that is named after the railway whose rail bed the trail now follows. This 2 mile trail begins at Reardon’s Bridge in downtown Wilmington and follows the Deerfield River before meandering along the shoreline of Harriman’s Reservoir and finally ending at the reservoir’s picnic & swimming area. With gentle elevation changes and fantastic views of the reservoir, this trail is perfect for all ability levels.

Mount Snow Bike Park

The Mount Snow Bike Park is a legendary destination in the Northeast, known for its deep roots in downhill mountain biking. Accessible via the high-speed Canyon Express, the park offers a diverse mix of terrain that caters to both gravity-fueled speed and technical mastery. Beginners can ease into the sport on Gateway, one of the longest introductory downhill trails in the East, which provides over two miles of smooth, flowing descent from the summit. For those seeking adrenaline, the park features a variety of intermediate flow trails like Evolver and expert-level freeride lines such as Bullwhip and Swamp Donkey, packed with massive berms, ladder drops, and man-made features.

Beyond its modern flow trails, Mount Snow stays true to its rugged Vermont heritage with a notorious selection of “old school” technical tracks. Trails like O.G. and the infamous Rock Garden offer steep, root-infested, and rocky descents that have tested professional racers for decades. The park is supported by a full-service base area, including a comprehensive rental shop and skills park to help riders dial in their gear and technique before heading up the mountain. Whether you’re looking for a smooth, scenic cruise or a punishing technical challenge, Mount Snow provides a world-class lift-serviced experience in the heart of the Green Mountains.

For info on pricing, lift hours, rentals, and more please visit Mount Snow’s website.