July 06, 2016 By Bike Words and photos: Ryan Thibault
Now in its 25th year of lift-serviced riding, Vermont’s Killington Resort is poised to lead the Northeast’s downhill community into the future.
But before we go there, let’s take a step back.
Many New England ski resorts have dabbled in mountain biking. Since the early 90’s, many have boasted “downhill” trails–which usually consisted of open-slope fire roads with massive water bars–and offered Gen’ Y elastomer-suspended rental bikes that simply weren’t up to the challenge. Many mainstream resorts jumped ship early on, but Killington weathered the storm.
Previously known for its advanced steep and rocky terrain, the resort now offers a spectrum of evolved trails accessed by three lifts. From beginner and intermediate runs to raw, expert-level tech and flowy offerings designed by Gravity Logic, Killington’s three mountain areas have it all–and the expansion continues.
Last week I met up with a crew of local riders that agreed to take me on a grand tour of the gravity playground. Affectionately referred to as ‘The Beast,’ Killington is nestled smack dab in the center of the Green Mountains. And though the mountain’s gradual slopes appear mellow from afar, I was immediately struck by the scale of the place. Rising up over 2000 feet from its base lodge, the sprawling topography makes for an optimal foundation for a bike park....
Read more at: Bike Magazine
Now in its 25th year of lift-serviced riding, Vermont’s Killington Resort is poised to lead the Northeast’s downhill community into the future.
Many New England ski resorts have dabbled in mountain biking. Since the early 90’s, many have boasted “downhill” trails–which usually consisted of open-slope fire roads with massive water bars–and offered Gen’ Y elastomer-suspended rental bikes that simply weren’t up to the challenge. Many mainstream resorts jumped ship early on, but Killington weathered the storm.
Previously known for its advanced steep and rocky terrain, the resort now offers a spectrum of evolved trails accessed by three lifts. From beginner and intermediate runs to raw, expert-level tech and flowy offerings designed by Gravity Logic, Killington’s three mountain areas have it all–and the expansion continues.
Last week I met up with a crew of local riders that agreed to take me on a grand tour of the gravity playground. Affectionately referred to as ‘The Beast,’ Killington is nestled smack dab in the center of the Green Mountains. And though the mountain’s gradual slopes appear mellow from afar, I was immediately struck by the scale of the place. Rising up over 2000 feet from its base lodge, the sprawling topography makes for an optimal foundation for a bike park....
Read more at: Bike Magazine