Outdoor Rec GuideMountain Biking
Poultney is quickly becoming synonymous with mountain biking - and for good reason! World class trail networks have been built out quickly here and, with over 60 miles of terrain, there are plenty of options for new riders and seasoned pros alike.
Castleton University Trails
The Castleton University Trails are suitable for beginner mountain bikers. They are easy and well-marked, with no significant climbs (though there are some roots and rocks). The trailhead is located at 62 Alumni Drive, Castleton, VT. Park at the start of the Rail Trail on Main St. in Castleton, or in the parking lot just north and east of the Rail Trail as it crosses South St. on the Castleton University campus. An informational kiosk is located along the Rail Trail in between the college lots.
The Castleton University Trails are also open to hikers and runners, and in the winter you’ll find cross country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.
Slate Valley Trails: Country Club Trailhead
The Country Club Trailhead features beginner to advanced mountain bike terrain with connectivity to more than 47 miles of multi-use trails. Access is located at the Lake St. Catherine Country Club, 2725 VT Route 30 (park in lower lot close to Route 30). The trails also connect to the Fairgrounds and Endless Brook trailheads, all managed by Slate Valley Trails.
The Country Club Trailhead also offers several hiking loops. Winter use includes snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
D&H Rail Trail
Looking to mountain bike on a relatively flat, scenic stretch of land close to amenities? The Delaware & Hudson Rail Trail is a perfect escape. The D&H is a 19.8 mile section of former railroad bed in western Rutland and Bennington counties which is now a recreational trail. This railtrail is multi-use, and is open to pedestrians, bicyclists and horseback riders in the summer along with snowshoers, skiers and snowmobiles in the winter.
The trail is in two sections with one segment between Castleton and Poultney and the other between West Pawlet and Rupert. These two Vermont sections are separated by a portion of trail in New York. The D&H Rail Trail travels through scenic countryside with views of nearby hills, villages, farms, fields and forests. There are many opportunities along the route to picnic, fish and stop at a store for refreshments. Parking is available at the Rail Trail parking lot on Bentley Avenue in Poultney Village.
Slate Valley Trails: Delaney Woods Trailhead
The Delaney Woods Trailhead accesses 5 miles of multi-use trails. Here you’ll find beginner to intermediate mountain bike terrain. Access is located on East Delaney Cross Road in Wells. This trailhead is managed by Slate Valley Trails.
The Delaney Woods Trailhead is also open to hiking, along with snowshoeing and cross country skiing in winter.
Slate Valley Trails: Endless Brook Trailhead
The Endless Brook Trailhead features intermediate to advanced mountain bike terrain with lots of climbing and fast, rolling descents. Part of the Slate Valley Trails network, the Endless Brook Trailhead enjoys connectivity to more than 47 miles of multi-use trails. Access is located at Endless Brook Road, 0.8 miles from Route 30, with limited parking available. The trails also connect to the Fairgrounds and Country Club trailheads, all managed by Slate Valley Trails.
The Endless Brook Trailhead also offers several hiking loops, and winter use includes snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
Slate Valley Trails: Fairgrounds Trailhead
The Fairgrounds Trailhead features family-friendly beginner to advanced mountain bike terrain with connectivity to more than 47 miles of multi-use trails. Access is located at 131 Town Farm Road in East Poultney. The trails also connect to the Country Club and Endless Brook trailheads, all managed by Slate Valley Trails.
The Fairgrounds Trailhead also offers several hiking loops. Winter use includes snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
Lake St. Catherine State Park
Looking for an easy ride with bountiful additional recreational opportunities? Lake St. Catherine State Park has long been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to relax and enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking. The 117-acre park offers a multitude of options for day use visitors and campers alike including a 1.8 mile network of easy to moderate multi-use trails.