A new system of adaptive mountain bike trails in Vermont serves as a model for grassroots clubs across the nation looking to make the sport more inclusive.
THIS SUMMER, RICHMOND MOUNTAIN TRAILS (richmondmountaintrails.org) in Vermont will complete the first purpose-built, fully adaptive mountain bike trail network in the United States. It’s a cool place to ride for locals and a blueprint for nationwide change.
The Driving Range network demonstrates that “adaptive” doesn’t mean “lame.” Driving Range trails range from green to double black. The network features a jumpline, prolines, flow trails, and more. And every trail in the network is passable and fun whether you’re on a three-wheeled bike or a two-wheeled one.
By putting accessibility front and center, anyone can come along for the ride. The Driving Range trails give adaptive riders independence—and they dish out challenge and the opportunity to progress. When trails are universally built, every rider can experience the exhilaration of exploration, and the camaraderie of a day on the trails with friends, regardless of their physical challenges.
When it comes down to it, what makes us most proud about this project is that it’s replicable. Any trail club can build adaptive when designing, constructing, or rehabbing a trail. Once we’re done, we’ll share what we learned to save you time and cost, as well as the blood, sweat, and tears of the mistakes we made and those we’ve seen.
Help us finish the Driving Range so we can complete a guidebook for grassroots clubs who want to build adaptive. Will you donate here (gofundme.com/f/complete-the-driving-range) today to help us build a future where every rider feels at home on the trails?
