Mountain biking is as close as you can get to skiing in the summer—and Vermont has world-class mountain biking all over the state. Don’t miss out and get in on the fun by joining the mountain bike community. Check out beginner programs at ski areas across the state or get information on riding trails from our friends at the Vermont Mountain Bike Association.
Downhill Starter Pack
A $99 package for beginners only, bundling a half-day lift ticket, half-day bike rental (helmet and pads included), and a 90-minute group lesson. Riders can upgrade to a full day for an additional $30 on-site. Bolton Valley also offers a 7th Grade Passport, giving 7th grade graduates a free summer season pass to the lift-served bike park.
Schedule: Summer beginner group lessons: Wed–Fri 4 p.m.; Sat/Sun 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Cost: $99 (lift ticket, rental, and lesson)
New for 2026: a lesson for first-time lift-accessed riders covering body position, braking, and reading a line, followed by a guided first run through the park with a certified instructor. Burke also connects directly into Kingdom Trails, and Kingdom MTB Camps (a separate provider) run beginner-to-expert kids' programs on the network.
Dates: TBD
Learn-to-Ride Lessons
Private and small-group lessons for individuals or families, ranging from learn-to-ride basics to jump lines. Catamount also offers Spoke Sprouts, a beginner group for young riders just getting started, and private lessons for kids who need help before joining camp or the cycling club.
Experience Downhill Package
Includes all the equipment needed plus instruction on the basics, from bike handling to reading terrain. Designed for anyone looking to get into mountain biking for the first time.
MTB Skills Clinic – First Timers
A beginner-friendly clinic covering the essentials for both kids and adults: pedaling with power, hand-brakes, shifting gears, and riding posture. Riders can bring their own bike or rent at the MTB Center, and receive 20% off rentals when booking any skills clinic.
First-Time Rider Lessons
A group lesson dedicated to first-time mountain bikers, starting on manageable terrain before covering terrain reading, line selection, mountain bike etiquette, gear shifting, and braking technique. Offered daily alongside Group, Private, and Guided Ride options.
Mountain Bike Lessons
Two-hour lessons cover the fundamentals of mountain biking for beginners, on a trail network with a dedicated beginner loop and two skills parks. Great for new riders or those looking for a tune-up.