Biking
The Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests have nearly 150 miles of trail managed for mountain biking. Forest roads are also open for mountain biking, unless otherwise signed.
Fat Biking
In the right conditions, a fat bike can be the ultimate winter backcountry travel tool. Frozen conditions and minimal snow coverage (1-5 inches) means these off-road bikes with oversize tires can access areas that are impassible during the warmer months.
Just because you can ride somewhere doesn't mean you always should. Be aware and be prepared.
Maps and Guides
Areas on the Green Mountain Great for Fat Bikes
- Chittenden Brook Area Trails
- Lefferts Pond Area
- Michigan Brook Road
- Silver Lake Area
E-Biking
E-Bikes (with full electric motor power or pedal assist) are not allowed on non-motorized FS trails, but are allowed on motorized trails and roads on the national forest. More information on FS policy can be found here.
The Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests have nearly 150 miles of trail managed for mountain biking. Forest roads are also open for mountain biking, unless otherwise signed.
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking on Green Mountain National Forest
Bicycle use is prohibited on the Appalachian and Long Trails, their side trails, and in Wilderness Areas.
The Green Mountain National Forest works in partnership with Vermont Mountain Bike Association and it's local chapters to provide, manage, and maintain mountain biking opportunities on the forest.
Mountain Biking on Finger Lakes National Forest
Non-motorized off-road vehicles, such as mountain bikes, are limited to trails specifically signed open to mountain bikes and Forest Service Roads open to vehicular travel.
Bicycle use is specifically prohibited on the Finger Lakes Trail (North Country National Scenic Trail), Gorge Trail, Potomac Trail, Ravine Trail, Southslope Trail and the southern portion of the Interloken Trail.
Mountain Biking Rules and Best Practices
In order to prevent trail damage please avoid riding on muddy trails. Riding on wet trails causes rutting, widening and accelerates trail erosion.
Lift-served mountain biking
Lift-served mountain biking occurs at developed ski areas and allows riders and their bikes to take a chairlift to the top of downhill only trails. Trails vary from mellow flow trails to steep, rocky trails with wooden features and jumps. These areas charge a fee and typically provide amenities like rental bikes, bathrooms, and food opportunities. Lift-served biking is available in the following ski areas:
Search for Biking Opportunities
Ash Hill Trail
Backbone Trailhead
Blueberry Lake Trails
Burnt Hill Trail
Chatfield Loop
Forest Road 341
Lefferts Pond Area
Moosalamoo National Recreation Area
Rochester Valley Trails