Thomas Cochran is fundraising
Cochran's Beginner MTB trail
Picture a summer evening at Cochran's. A group of kids on balance and pedal bikes are chasing each other around a pump track at the bottom of the ski area. Passing close by to the pump track, a number of newcomers to the sport are having a blast on the buffed out turns, rollers, and easy climbs of the 1.5 mile beginner loop that begins and ends at the upper parking lot. While a group of more advanced riders high fives each other at the bottom of an epic descent of the separate advanced enduro trail, there are families and friends lounging at the picnic tables enjoying post ride refreshments, sharing stories and laughter. As the evening light fades into twilight, parents are calling to their kids to finish up one last lap. While currently a dream, this vision of an all inclusive location for community and summer recreation is within reach.
Since 1961, Cochran’s Ski Area has offered countless individuals outdoor winter recreational opportunities with a mission “to provide area youth and families with affordable skiing and snowboarding, lessons and race training, in the Cochran tradition.” Though the advanced MTB terrain at Cochran's and adjoining landowners have generated a significant amount of buzz over the past few years, there exists a need for trails that support the beginner focus that Cochran's Ski Area is known for during the ski season. As mountain biking has gained in popularity, there has been a need for terrain that allows for the youngest and most novice riders to be exposed to this wonderful sport in a way that fits with our mission.
Family-friendly beginner trails will be realized by a professionally built 1.5 mile loop geared towards young and novice riders, coupled with a pump track, both of which will be easily accessible from the ski area parking lot. These will be packed with skill-building features and a variety or terrain, so riders will quickly gain mastery and build confidence. The trail is also being designed to accommodate adaptive mountain biking, with the Kelly Brush Foundation providing expertise in this area. Hardy Avery of Sustainable Trailworks, one of the premier trail building outfits in Vermont is signed on to lead the construction effort this spring. We will also be using as much volunteer labor as possible to keep costs down.
Richmond and Cochran's provide a fantastic location for hosting such a network, with great parking, proximity to the interstate, and existing infrastructure. Cochran’s has a longstanding reputation for being a community oriented, family friendly establishment that lays the foundation for a lifetime of outdoor activities. Expanding our operation to include beginner mountain biking terrain will directly contribute to our legacy in Vermont.
Join us and help grow the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts!
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