Fat Biking

Vermont has an extensive multi-use trail network, and most of it is open to fat bikes in winter when the ground is frozen, whether or not there is snow. When the snow is deep, many local trails organizations groom their trail networks for fat biking. And when it’s not, frozen trails make great riding, as do solid lakes and ponds if you have studded tires. Vermont Mountain Bike Association has more than 20 chapters, and many maintain winter trails including twisting, bermed machine built trails, and meandering snowshoe-packed singletrack. Some winters the lake freezes solid, and adventurous experts who are appropriately-equipped can bike to New York.

If you don’t have a bike, rent from one of Burlington’s bike shops, then start exploring the Burlington Rec Path along the shores of Lake Champlain. Or buy a day pass at Catamount Family Center in Williston to loop through forests and farmland on trails groomed for fat biking. And  Richmond’s River Trail, which meanders along the Winooski River, isn’t groomed but it’s well packed, relatively flat, and a whole lot of fun, with easy access to Richmond restaurants where you can warm up with hot cocoa, a hot toddy, or homemade meal post-ride.