TRAILS COLLABORATIVE
Trail-based recreation and collaboration are important components of the Mad River Valley’s culture and economy. Local trail organizations such as the Mad River Riders, the Mad River Path Association and Ridge Runners (a local chapter of VAST) have led in the creation of an expansive four-season, multi-use trail network on public and private lands.
In 2010, numerous partners, including trail groups, town commissions, state and federal land managers, local businesses and environmental organizations, started to meet regularly as the Mad River Valley Trails Collaborative to identify new ways to sustain a high quality trail network and steward our natural resources and heritage. We invite you to learn more about initiatives supported by the Trails Collaborative and join our conversation about trails in the Valley!
Grant Planning
In November 2021, the Mad River Valley Recreation District, on behalf of six partners, applied for a Vermont Outdoor Recreation and Economic Collaborative (VOREC) Grant to support local economic development & build the MRV Recreation Hub located at the intersection of Route 100 and Route 17. That application yielded the largest VOREC grant in the state and has become the primary focus of the Trails Collaborative for 2023 and 2024. .
Mad River Moves & Trail Kiosks
In 2014, when the Mad River Valley Planning District was convening the Trails Collaborative, they did a watershed-wide, long-range vision for an Active Transportation Plan, called MRV Moves. It has provided a cohesive framework on which to build. The top suggestion from MRV Moves were branded trailhead kiosks that were installed at 50+ locations, providing visitors with trail information and maps. Trail updates are incorporated into hardcopy maps and updated data is provided to Trailfinder.com.
Other Collaborative Projects
Other collaborative projects include: stewardMRV, a very successful effort to keep swim holes and trailheads clean, and the planning and development of a Dog Park.
Another important collaboration is Community Recreation Visioning (CRV), which is part of the VOREC grant. CRV is spearheaded by a Leadership Team and Steering Committee of 16 MRV residents representing various organizations. They are researching how best to balance ecological integrity with trails and recreation. Public sessions to engage the community are being planed for summer 2023. Stay posted for additional collaboration in the MRV!
Trails Collaborative Partners
