2026 Riders Report
2026 Mad River Riders Trail Report
By the MRR Trails Committee
This year, the trails committee, working with the trail crew, volunteers, state, L&D Trail works, and generous landowners, began improving a connection between the Lincoln Peak Base Area and the Rec Hub. When completed, this durable trail, improved for accessibility, will stretch for 9.5 miles. The riders will park at the Lincoln Peak, and after several hours of exciting, mostly downhill riding, will emerge at the Rec Hub, returning via shuttle provided by the Stark Mountain Bike Works. This year’s work included constructing a 1.2-kilometer Maple Reprise Trail between Techie and Tucker Hill Road, establishing a permanent connection between the Swell Hill area and Enchanted Forest suitable for novice and intermediate riders. The second major improvement was construction of a Tucker Hill Meadow boardwalk, mitigating riders’ impact on the wetland and creating an ADA accessible entry to our network.
While the professional trail builders, with the help of volunteers and the state, worked on the major projects, the trail crew made improvements and reroutes on Ridgie to facilitate access from Swell Hill to Enchanted Forest for novice and intermediate riders.
We also improved the Seriously Sharp, adding shingles to the boardwalk to reduce slippage on wet days and creating a smooth transition between the boardwalk and trail.
We’ve replaced a bridge on Revolution and added rock work to upgrade the trail uphill of the bridge. Finally, we have completed restoration work on trail connections in N. Fayston
On the planning side, we designed and permitted a reroute of Enchanted Forest below the power lines past Tucker Hill Meadow to reduce riders’ impact on the wetland and improve accessibility for novice and intermediate riders, evaluated Plum Line, planned for 2027 erosion control repairs, and completed accessibility assessment of Blueberry Lake trail system.
A Big Year for Mad River Riders
By Kim Hall, MRR programs and events committee member
From gravel roads to mountain bike trails, the Mad River Riders’ 2026 season brought people together to ride, explore, and celebrate the outdoor culture that makes the Mad River Valley special. Through signature events and youth programming, the Riders connected visitors and local residents, supported local businesses, and invested in the trails and programs that keep our outdoor community thriving.
Kicking off the season with its largest turnout in recent years, Cranko de Mayo brought riders together for a spring gravel adventure through scenic dirt roads, covered bridges, and mountain views. With route options for different abilities, including a guided e-bike ride, the event welcomed a broad range of participants. Tacos, drinks, and live music at Madbush Falls rounded out the day, while event proceeds supported trail maintenance, youth cycling coaches, and community programs.
More than 100 participants from around New England came together for Grateful Gravel, celebrating gravel riding, live music, and community. Riders explored the Valley’s scenic backroads before gathering for food, local craft beer, and music. More than a ride, the event showcased how outdoor recreation brings people together, supports local businesses, and strengthens the Valley’s recreational economy—all while building support for the trails and programs that make these experiences possible.
Closing out the season in celebration of mountain biking and community, Valley Dirt Fest welcomed participants from five states across the Northeast to explore the Valley’s incredible mountain bike trail network. Guided rides and shuttle options offered opportunities to discover new terrain, while live music, local food, and a gathering at the Mad River Valley Recreation Hub extended the celebration beyond the trails. The event highlighted the regional draw of our trail network and helped support the ongoing work of building and maintaining it.
Beyond these signature events, the Riders continued investing in the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts through trail building and maintenance, the Mad River Rippers, and two weeks of summer kids camps that welcomed 25 participants from the Valley and surrounding areas. The free, professionally coached Rippers program brings kids and families—from toddlers on strider bikes to high schoolers—together for Tuesday evening rides tailored to different abilities and goals. Along with summer camps, these programs help young riders build skills, confidence, and friendships while fostering a lifelong connection to biking and the outdoors.
As the Mad River Riders join forces with the Mad River Path to form the Mad River Trails Alliance, we’re building on this strong foundation to connect more people with the outdoors and strengthen the community around us. We’re grateful to the volunteers, participants, landowners, sponsors, and community partners who made the 2026 season possible. Thank you for being part of the journey—and for helping keep the Mad River Valley a place where trails, community, and outdoor adventure thrive.