Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.
In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis talks with RJ Thompson, Executive Director of Vermont Huts & Trails, about the Velomont Project — an ambitious effort to create a 485-mile, hut-supported trail network spanning the length of Vermont.
Designed to modern mountain bike standards and open to hikers, runners, and backcountry travelers, the Velomont aims to connect communities, fuel rural economies, and redefine outdoor recreation in the Green Mountain State.
Art and RJ discuss how the project began, how it’s funded, and the partnerships — from the Vermont Mountain Bike Association to the Green Mountain Club — making it all possible. They also dive into the Tunnel Ridge Trail in the Heart of the Greens loop, which some riders say rivals Black Bear at Kingdom Trails as one of the best trails in the world.
Whether you’re a rider dreaming of a multi-day backcountry adventure or someone passionate about community-driven recreation, this episode offers an inside look at the future of Vermont’s trail culture — and what it takes to build something that lasts generations.
Episode Takeaways
- The Velomont Project will connect 485 miles of trail across Vermont.
- A collaboration among multiple organizations and communities statewide.
- Funding combines grants, donations, and hut revenue.
- Community engagement is essential to gaining land access and support.
- Volunteers and local trail chapters keep the system thriving.
- The project aims to connect rural towns and boost local economies.
- Future plans include more huts, more trail miles, and better accessibility.
- The initiative embodies Vermont’s sustainable, community-based recreation ethic.
This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang
Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.