
Perry Hill Trail Network
A challenging mountain bike network with epic climbs and thrilling descents, set in a beautiful Vermont forest.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Perry Hill Trail Network
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging mountain bike network with epic climbs and thrilling descents, set in a beautiful Vermont forest.
"This trail kicked my a! The DH is awesome. A must ride!"

Bring your climbing legs! :muscle:
Expect a serious climb before the fun downhill. Pace yourself and enjoy the workout!
Use Trailforks for navigation :iphone:
Trails are well-marked, but an app ensures you don't miss any of the best routes.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Campfire Trail
Perry Hill Trail Network
An epic downhill ride with switchbacks, berms, and technical sections. A must-ride for any mountain biker.
Pump Track
Near the entrance
A fun, unexpected addition for practicing skills or warming up before hitting the main trails.
River Access
Across from the parking area
Cool off after a ride with a refreshing dip in the river, perfect for both riders and their dogs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Climb!
Trail Variety & Marking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring your climbing legs! :muscle:
Expect a serious climb before the fun downhill. Pace yourself and enjoy the workout!
Use Trailforks for navigation :iphone:
Trails are well-marked, but an app ensures you don't miss any of the best routes.
Trail suggestions in Vermont?
One of the local mtb clubs just started grooming some steep, enduro trails. Closest thing you’ll get to real trail riding in February.
Dog-friendly fun :dog:
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails. Perfect for a ride with your furry friend!
Post-ride river dip :ocean:
Cool off in the river across from the parking lot after your ride.
Waterbury area w/ kids
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring your climbing legs! :muscle:
Expect a serious climb before the fun downhill. Pace yourself and enjoy the workout!
Use Trailforks for navigation :iphone:
Trails are well-marked, but an app ensures you don't miss any of the best routes.
Dog-friendly fun :dog:
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails. Perfect for a ride with your furry friend!
Post-ride river dip :ocean:
Cool off in the river across from the parking lot after your ride.
Helmet recommended :safety_vest:
Some descents can be fast and technical; a full-face helmet is a good idea for some riders.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the challenging climbs and epic downhill sections at Perry Hill, praising the well-maintained trails and variety of terrain. The dog-friendly atmosphere and river access are also frequently mentioned positives. Some find the climbs very demanding, but the rewarding descents make it a must-ride for many.
"Holy moly! This trail kicked my a! I’m a Florida MTB gal. So, as you can imagine, we have no hills to climb. However…..This trail was a lot of fun! It’s a hell of a climb, but once you get to the top, the DH is awesome. Well maintained trail with switch backs, berms and plenty of technical stuff. All the trails are well marked. We only did campfire, due to time and it was epic! There is even a pump track before you head in on the right which was a pleasant surprise. It’s a great trail in a lovely area and it’s a must ride 🤘"
Michelle Corbin
"I've biked here a bunch but this was the first time snowshoeing there. It's always fun to walk the trails slowly that you normally fly down while riding. We climbed up to the top of campfire and went back down that. The forest was beautiful in the snow and luckily we were the first ones to break a path, so that was cool."
Kieran Campbell
"Very nice trail area and access to the river that is nice to swim/play in. Bike trails go through the area and there is a port-a-potty if you need to use one."
Cassandra NightThunder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Perry Hill Trail Network is conveniently located near the highway, making it easily accessible. Parking is available at the trailhead. Many visitors find it straightforward to locate using GPS coordinates or by searching for 'Perry Hill Trail Network parking'.
Public transportation options to the immediate vicinity of Perry Hill Trail Network are limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car. Check local transit schedules for Waterbury, VT, for any potential bus routes that might get you close.
While trails are generally well-marked, using a navigation app like Trailforks is highly recommended. It provides detailed trail maps, difficulty ratings, and real-time location tracking, ensuring you can explore the network effectively.
Yes, there is a port-a-potty available at the trailhead, which is convenient for visitors. It's a good idea to check its condition upon arrival, especially during peak seasons.
Absolutely! There's easy access to the river directly across from the main parking area. It's a perfect spot to cool down after a ride or for families to enjoy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Perry Hill Trail Network is generally free to access and ride. It operates as a community-maintained trail system, so donations are often appreciated to help with upkeep.
The trails are typically open from dawn until dusk. There are no official operating hours, allowing visitors to enjoy the network at their convenience, though riding in low light is not recommended for safety.
There is no entrance fee to use the Perry Hill Trail Network. It's a public access area, and the trails are maintained by local enthusiasts and volunteers.
While mountain biking is primarily a warmer-weather activity, the trails can be used for snowshoeing or fat biking in the winter, conditions permitting. Check local conditions before heading out in snowy weather.
For casual group rides, no special permits are typically required. However, if you are planning a large organized event, it's advisable to contact local trail organizations or authorities to inquire about any necessary permissions or insurance.
🎫 🚵 Onsite Experience
Perry Hill offers a diverse range of trails, from old-school technical sections with roots and rocks to modern flow trails with berms and jumps. There are options for various skill levels, though many trails involve significant climbing.
While Perry Hill has challenging trails, there are also some beginner-friendly options. However, the overall network is known for its climbs, so beginners should be prepared for a workout. The pump track is a great starting point.
The terrain is varied, featuring a mix of packed dirt, loose rocks, exposed roots, and smooth, bermed sections. The forest setting provides a beautiful and natural riding environment.
Yes, the trails are generally well-maintained by local volunteers and the mountain biking community. You'll find switchbacks, berms, and clearings that indicate ongoing care.
The downhill sections, like Campfire Trail, are a major draw. Riders often describe them as epic and well-designed, offering a thrilling descent after the climb. Using a good suspension bike is recommended for these sections.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Perry Hill is located near Waterbury, VT, which offers several dining options. You can find local cafes, diners, and restaurants in town. Packing a picnic to enjoy by the river is also a popular choice for riders.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the challenging climbs. There are no concessions on-site.
While there aren't designated picnic tables, the area near the river access point offers a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy a packed meal. The natural setting makes for a scenic lunch break.
Waterbury has a range of eateries, from casual spots to more established restaurants. You can find everything from classic American fare to local Vermont specialties. It's a good place to refuel after a day of riding.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally advised to consume alcohol responsibly and away from the immediate trail areas. The focus at Perry Hill is on outdoor recreation and safety.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic forest setting, the challenging switchbacks on climbs, and the flowy berms on descents offer great photo opportunities. The river access point also provides a picturesque backdrop.
Yes, filming mountain biking is common here, as seen in many TikTok videos. Be mindful of other riders and ensure your filming doesn't impede trail use or safety.
A GoPro or similar action camera is popular for capturing the riding experience. For landscape shots, a smartphone or a dedicated camera with a wide-angle lens would be beneficial.
While there aren't designated viewpoints, the higher elevations reached during climbs offer expansive views of the surrounding forest. The riverbanks also provide lovely natural settings for photos.
Capturing action shots requires timing and a good vantage point. Friends can help by filming from different angles on the trails, especially on the berms and jumps.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
River access across from the parking lot is a huge plus for families. It provides a perfect spot for kids to cool off, splash around, and enjoy the outdoors after a ride or a hike. Packing a picnic to enjoy by the river is also a popular and easy option. Remember to assess your children's skill level and stamina, as the climbs can be demanding. Using a navigation app like Trailforks can help you identify suitable routes for your family's abilities.
🐶 Dog Owners
The river access across from the parking lot is a major highlight for dog owners. It's the perfect place for your dog to cool off and play in the water after a ride, especially during warmer months. This amenity significantly enhances the experience for both you and your pet. Remember to bring water for your dog and be mindful of other trail users and their pets.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider using a navigation app to plan routes that maximize your climbing and descending time. The well-maintained trails, including features like switchbacks and berms, add to the dynamic nature of the workout. Whether you're training for a race or just seeking an intense outdoor session, Perry Hill offers a rewarding and demanding experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mountain Biking at Perry Hill
The 'go up then come down' nature of many trails means that planning your route and pacing yourself is key. Trails like 'Campfire' are frequently highlighted as epic downhill runs, praised for their well-designed switchbacks and technical features. The network is generally well-maintained by the local community, with clear markings and features that indicate ongoing care. For navigation, using an app like Trailforks is highly recommended to make the most of the extensive trail system.
Beyond the biking, Perry Hill offers a beautiful forest setting and convenient access to the river for a refreshing post-ride cool-down. It's a place where riders can push their limits, enjoy the natural beauty, and connect with a passionate local biking community. Some riders even suggest considering a full-face helmet for the more aggressive descents.
Family and Dog-Friendly Aspects
Furthermore, the network is known for being dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs to accompany riders on the trails. This makes it an ideal spot for those who want to bring their canine companions along for an outdoor adventure. The easy access to the river across from the parking area is a significant bonus for both families and dog owners. It offers a perfect spot to cool off, play, or simply relax by the water after a ride, making the overall experience more enjoyable for everyone.
For families with young children who are new to mountain biking, it's important to note that many of the main trails involve substantial climbing. However, exploring the pump track and shorter, flatter sections can still provide a rewarding experience. The well-marked trails and the option to use navigation apps can also help families stay on track and manage their adventure effectively.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit