Vermont Farmer Shares Insights on Opening Private Land for Mountain Biking Trails

Across the United States, mountain biking enthusiasts are increasingly seeking to establish new trails on privately owned land. This approach has gained significant traction in recent years, with Vermont emerging as a forerunner in this innovative strategy. The state's unique geography, characterized by smaller, disconnected land parcels rather than vast tracts of public forest, has driven local mountain bikers to forge partnerships with private landowners. This collaborative spirit has led to the creation of hundreds of miles of purpose-built singletrack trails, including the renowned Kingdom Trails system, which draws riders from across the Eastern U.S. and Canada. However, this model is not without its challenges, as demonstrated by past instances where landowners withdrew access, underscoring the delicate balance required in these partnerships.

Bruce Hennessey, a farmer from Richmond, Vermont, recently chose to open part of his 250-acre Maple Wind Farm for new trail development, in cooperation with Richmond Mountain Trails. Motivated by a belief in sustainable land use and a desire to foster community stewardship, Hennessey shared crucial insights for other landowners considering public recreational access. He stresses that landowners must be comfortable interacting with the public and recognize that once trails are established, they become accessible to everyone. The importance of collaborating with skilled and environmentally conscious trail builders, who prioritize sustainability and thoughtful design, is also paramount. Hennessey's experience highlights the benefit of knowing and trusting the individuals involved in trail construction, ensuring a shared ethic and responsible practices.

A significant concern for many landowners is liability. Vermont's strong liability protection laws are a critical element in the state's successful private land trail model. These laws shield landowners from lawsuits as long as no fee is charged for trail use, effectively mitigating a major barrier to opening private property for recreation. Hennessey's primary concern revolved around preserving access for hunters, reflecting a commitment to existing community relationships. Ultimately, his decision to open Maple Wind Farm to mountain biking stemmed from a profound appreciation for community values and a shared dedication to land stewardship, underscoring how collaborative efforts can create positive recreational opportunities that benefit everyone involved.