MOUNTAIN LIFE - Blue Mountains | Summer 2018

88 ML BLUE SUMMER 2018 Whether you’re a roadie, a mountain biker, or a downhiller—of any level—Killington, Vermont, is designed for two wheels. Rural Vermont offers hundreds of miles of undulating country roads with nonstop scenery and light traffic; in the Killington area, cyclists are commonplace and drivers are considerate. That’s likely because the Killington Mountain School, where young athletes go to develop their craft, has countless bikes buzzing around town daily. For roadies, the Killington Stage Race at the end of May is a bucket-list event whether you’re hoping to try your skill at racing or just enjoy watching the pros. Not into racing? The shady, winding roads are at perfect temperatures through most of the summer, while fall brings leaf-peeping on rural roads and miles of gravel. Killington Resort offers everything a mountain biker could want, from lift access for downhill runs to miles of flowing, technical singletrack for the cross- country riders who prefer pedaling their climbs. And between regular women’s events, a casual Wednesday night series throughout the summer, and plenty of pro racing throughout the season, there’s always something athletic happening around the resort and downtown. While in town, don’t skimp on the food—you’ll work up a monster appetite by pedaling around. For breakfast, grab a sandwich at The Killington Deli & Marketplace and post-ride, head to The Foundry for a more substantial meal—like the rack of lamb—and perfectly mixed cocktail. Not a cyclist? There are plenty of other athletic options, like in late August when Killington Resort hosts a mountain trail run with short and long distance options. —Molly Hurford DIY: for maps and info check the state-run travel site vermontvacation.com or killington.com 48 Ride Killington, VT MULTIDAY TRIPS