VMBA History

VMBA is the voice of mountain bikers in Vermont. Our goal is to create and preserve mountain biking opportunities today and for future generations. VMBA was formed in 1996 as trail closures were becoming very common, by a group of avid mountain bikers who organized to stop the closures and advocate for legitimate trails. The organization has been instrumental in keeping trails open and creating new trails on municipal, state, federal and private land in numerous locations throughout Vermont. VMBA is now recognized as an authority and the central voice of mountain bikers by several municipalities, the State of Vermont and the Green Mountain National Forest.

VMBA is based on four principles; trail advocacy, government liaison, education and bike patrol. Each of these divisions is overseen by at least one member of the board of directors with expertise in that area. Many board members have graduated from the IMBA Trail Building School and have miles of trial building experience. Several members are government officials or are recognized by other government officials as authorities and spokespersons for the mountain bike community. VMBA members also include certified educators and emergency medical personnel who represent the interests of mountain bikers throughout Vermont.

VMBA is made up of many local chapters, with more forming each year. From Jay to Danville to Rutland to Stowe to the Champlain and Mad River Valleys, these organizations are the lifeblood of VMBA. To further this process of bottom-up organization, we have created the VMBA Chapter Toolkit to help you be an effective voice for mountain biking in your community. The future of VMBA and mountain biking in Vermont is totally dependent on a strong grassroots membership dedicated to creating and preserving mountain bike trail opportunities. We need you.