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MTB trails
United States
Vermont

Essex County

The best MTB trails in Essex County

4.5

(14)

1,433

riders

30

rides

Mountain biking in Essex County, Vermont, offers diverse terrain characterized by rolling hills, forested paths, and significant elevation changes. The region features prominent natural landmarks such as Burke Mountain, providing a scenic backdrop for various mountain bike trails. Riders can expect a mix of challenging climbs and descents, often winding through wooded areas. This landscape provides a dynamic environment for mountain biking, catering to those seeking both endurance and technical skill development.

Best mountain bike trails in Essex County

  • The…

Last updated: June 28, 2026

3.0

(2)

241

riders

#1.

Darling Hill – Bemis Hill loop from East Burke

37.4km

03:37

710m

710m

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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Hard

5.0

(1)

70

riders

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
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43

riders

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

28

riders

This difficult 12.4-mile (19.9 km) mountain bike loop, with 1097 feet (334 metres) of climbing, offers a challenging ride through Vermont's renowned Kingdom Trails network. You'll navigate varied forested singletrack,…

Hard

4.5

(2)

18

riders

If you're seeking a challenging ride that showcases the best of Vermont's mountain biking, the Mountainbike loop from East Burke delivers. This difficult 9.0-mile (14.5 km) route winds through varied…

Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

13

riders

Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
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Tips from the Community

Paul_C
May 9, 2025, Burke Mountain Climb

This climb is short but brutal, covering around 3.3 miles with an intense average gradient of about 12.2%, hitting pitches over 20% and gaining over 2,000 feet. As you grind your way up through the dense Vermont forest, be sure to catch your breath at the overlooks; midway up, you might see the striking Willoughby Gap, and from the summit, climbing the fire tower rewards you with incredible 360-degree panoramic views of the rolling Green Mountains and White Mountains stretching out into the distance – especially stunning when the fall foliage is peaking.

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Sue
February 22, 2024, Burke Mountain

Burke Mountain is a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts during winter. However, during the summer, it transforms into Burke Bike Park, offering singletrack biking and hiking trails. The Burke Mountain bike climb is a challenging and steep climb of 3.3 miles (5.31 km), known for having the steepest 2.5 mile (4.02 km) section in the US. Upon reaching the top, you can enjoy several fantastic views of Vermont's famous Willoughby Gap to the north.

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Alex
December 8, 2023, Darling Hill

Darling Hill, just off Darling Hill Road, is a popular recreation area for Vermonters. Trail running, hiking, and biking are popular here in the summer, and in the winter, this area is popular for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. For cross-country skiers, this area of Darling Hill is said to be the “prettiest mile in Vermont.”

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Burke Mountain serves as the high point at Burke Mountain Ski Resort in Vermont. There is a 37-foot tall lookout tower at the top of the mountain, and you get unobstructed panoramic views from the summit.

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AverieOutside
November 21, 2023, Bemis Hill

Bemis Hill is a peak within Burke Mountain Bike Area that tops out at 1,213 feet in elevation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available in Essex County, Vermont?

Essex County, Vermont, offers a diverse network of over 20 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, though many are designed for experienced riders.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Essex County, Vermont?

You can expect a dynamic environment characterized by rolling hills, dense forested paths, and significant elevation changes. Trails often feature challenging climbs and descents, winding through wooded areas with a mix of natural surfaces.

Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Essex County, Vermont?

While many routes in Essex County, Vermont, are geared towards experienced riders, there are a few easier options available. Out of the 23 listed trails, 2 are classified as easy and 2 as moderate, providing some choices for those new to mountain biking or looking for a less strenuous ride.

What are some of the more challenging mountain bike routes in Essex County, Vermont?

Essex County, Vermont, is known for its challenging routes. For instance, the Bemis Hill loop from Center Pond is a difficult 45.5-mile path with extensive climbs and descents. Another demanding option is the Darling Hill – Bemis Hill loop from East Burke, which covers 23.2 miles with substantial elevation gain.

Are there any mountain bike trails that offer scenic views in Essex County, Vermont?

Yes, many trails in Essex County, Vermont, provide scenic mountain views, particularly those around Burke Mountain. The forested paths and varied terrain offer picturesque backdrops throughout your ride.

What is the typical length and duration of mountain bike trails in Essex County, Vermont?

The trails vary significantly in length and duration. For example, the Mountainbike loop from White School is about 7.6 miles (12.3 km) and takes around 1 hour 8 minutes, while the Darling Hill – Newark Pond loop from East Burke spans over 41 miles (66.8 km) and can take nearly 6 hours to complete.

Can I find loop trails for mountain biking in Essex County, Vermont?

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Essex County, Vermont, are designed as loops. Examples include the Bemis Hill loop from East Burke and the Darling Hill loop from East Burke, offering circular routes to start and end at the same point.

What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Essex County, Vermont?

The mountain bike trails in Essex County, Vermont, are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 14 reviews. Over 1200 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the region, often praising the challenging terrain and scenic forested routes.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Essex County, Vermont?

The best time for mountain biking in Essex County, Vermont, is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and trails are free of snow and ice. Fall offers particularly stunning foliage views. Winter conditions can make many trails impassable or require specialized equipment.

Are dogs allowed on the mountain bike trails in Essex County, Vermont?

Information regarding specific dog policies for all mountain bike trails in Essex County, Vermont, is not universally available. It is always recommended to check local regulations or specific trail signage before bringing your dog, as rules can vary by park or land management area.

Are there options for parking near the mountain bike trails in Essex County, Vermont?

While specific parking details for every trailhead are not provided, most popular mountain biking areas and trail networks typically offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route on komoot for any specific parking instructions or recommendations.

Are there any nearby attractions or places to explore after a ride?

Essex County, Vermont, is nestled in a region known for its natural beauty. While specific attractions directly adjacent to the trails are not listed, the area's focus on outdoor activities means you'll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural landscape, including Burke Mountain and various forested areas.

Most popular routes in Essex County

Hiking in Essex County

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