FAQ
A lot has happened over the past year at KT
Capacity Study
What became of the Capacity Study?
The Capacity Study was a success; and we implemented several of its recommendations, like dispersing users throughout the network and creating safer road crossings.
Our membership numbers have dropped since the 2018 peak. The world has changed: many communities have followed our lead in developing their own local trails, and factors ranging from economic shifts to extreme weather have impacted visitation. However, this shift isn't a setback; it’s an opportunity. We are no longer managing overcrowding, which allows us to double down on trail maintenance and stewardship, ensuring the Kingdom remains a premier destination.
Community Hub
Are you still planning on building a Community Hub/Welcome Center?
The Community Hub was a bold vision developed during a different chapter of our growth. The viability of the project relied to a large degree on the potential availability, commitment and timing of public funding. After careful consideration, we’ve decided to move away from a major building project to ensure we stay 100% focused on our mission. Right now, our resources are fully dedicated to what we do best: building and maintaining the incredible trail network you love.
Infrastructure/Amenities
How are you thinking about infrastructure—parking, visitor services, and capacity—especially now that the visitor center has been tabled?
While we have shifted away from a new centralized visitor center, our commitment to a smooth visitor experience is stronger than ever. By deepening our partnerships with local anchors like the Wildflower Inn and Burke Mountain, we can provide ample parking and services while allowing us to focus our resources on the trails.
Burke Mountain
How does Burke Mountain fit into KT’s future given the new ownership, particularly where the trail systems interface today?
We have formed a strong partnership with Burke Mountain. The new owners have shown an incredible commitment to our mission, providing the land access, equipment, and resources necessary to maintain a premier trail system. Moving forward, we are focused on a 'one-network' feel, where the transition between KT and Mountain terrain is seamless, intuitive, and world-class.
Continuity of the Network
Over the past 5 years, there have been some major losses of connectivity. Do you have any plans to address this?
Yes! We have been actively pursuing potential connections. Look for some exciting new projects coming this season.
Attracting Visitors
What steps are being taken to attract new visitors while retaining existing ones?
Our focus is moving back to the heart of our mission: the trails themselves. We are excited to launch an enhanced maintenance program that prioritizes the long-term health of the network. By revitalizing our historic trails and re-establishing vital connections, we are building a more seamless and sustainable experience. We are creating a more resilient and dynamic trail system that will continue to thrill riders and respect the land for generations to come.
Staying True to our Roots
How does KT plan to maintain differentiation as similar trail networks proliferate?
We recognize that riders have more choices today than they did a decade ago, and we think that’s great for the cycling community. However, Kingdom Trails remains the heart of the sport because of our history and our people. We are choosing to stay true to our roots as a community-driven, landowner-supported network. We aren’t trying to compete with every new bike park; we are focusing on the miles and miles of unique trails and the 'handshake' culture that made us a leader in the first place. By staying true to the flowy, scenic, and soulful riding experience that put the Northeast Kingdom on the map, we ensure that KT remains the gold standard for authenticity in an increasingly crowded field.
Virtual Community Engagement
Many invested parties don’t live full-time in the NEK- Is there a way for landowners, stakeholders, and trail users to participate in Community Chats remotely?
Our Community Chats take place at various local businesses, some of which don’t have the ability to offer a remote set-up. However, we will plan for at least 1 Chat per year to have a virtual option. Outside of Community Chats, we welcome feedback and the chance to answer questions or talk about trails at any time. Our phone number is 802-626-0737. You can reach Georgia Gould, our Interim Executive Director at ed@kingdomtrails.org.
Beginner and Green Trails
Over the years, there has been a loss of true beginner-friendly trails. Do you have plans to address this?
Yes! In partnership with Burke Mountain, we have plans for a build-out of the Dashney area to offer a family-friendly trail zone with multiple ride-length options.
Long Term Plans
What is KT’s 3–5 year strategic vision for growth?
Our new reality (more competition, more volatile weather patterns) has forced us to make some difficult decisions to ensure the long-term viability of the organization. Our focus is on operational sustainability. We are dedicated to a balanced budget that aligns our resources with our mission, ensuring the longevity and health of the organization for the long haul. This is a chance to refocus on our mission: trails. We have just developed a set of principles to guide our trail work, including: addressing deferred maintenance, climate-resilient upgrades, and building new connectors.
Executive Director Search
What is the process for the Executive Director search?
We are actively working on developing the process, and more communications will follow.
