By Bob Spencer

Vernon is fortunate to have about 25 miles of snowmobile trails that are maintained by the Vernon Trailbreakers Club. The trails are part of a an extensive statewide network, much of which are on private property, with permission of the landowners. The trails are part of the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers, (VAST) network, which extends throughout all of Vermont. Some Vernon snowmobilers have even taken cross county adventures to Quebec, New York, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.

Vermont was one of the first states to establish a network of trails that are developed, maintained, and groomed by snowmobile organizations, with financial support by state of Vermont snowmobile registration revenue.

Don Rosinski, president of the Vernon Trailblazers Club, coordinates the extensive work required to clear downed trees, build and repair numerous bridges over streams and swamps, provide education about safely riding “sleds”, and verify that snowmobiles have a current registration. Vermont State police also conduct periodic patrols of the trails.

The Vernon club hosts an annual dinner party to thank landowners for allowing use of their trails.

Club members contribute hundreds of hours each year to keep the trails accessible and safe.

A trail map can be found on the Vernon Trailbreaker’s Facebook page. Vernon trails provide access to trails in Guilford, Brattleboro, and Northfield, mostly on private property, with permission of the owners. The trails run along the Connecticut River, and climb to the town forest off Basin Road, as well as the state Roaring Brook Wildlife Management Area. The club’s Facebook page has photos of beautiful views of the valley.

As the name “snow travelers” suggests, trails are also used by cross country skiers, snowshoers, and hikers. However, many landowners do not allow year round use of their trails by all-terrain vehicles.

Vermont requires that snowmobiles be registered, and display a current sticker.