Vermont Community Campout

Vermont Community Campout – Poultney, United States

• Date: September 5–7, 2026
• Location: Poultney, Vermont, United States
• Distances: 20 miles, 26 miles, 50 miles
• Event Type: Bikepacking Campout

The Vermont Community Campout offers a weekend of supported, self-sufficient riding and community in the quiet landscapes of the Slate Valley. This friendly gathering is designed as an accessible entry into the world of multi-day riding, providing a perfect setting for a first bikepacking trip in Vermont. With a welcoming basecamp and routes for varying experience levels, it’s a chance to connect with fellow riders and the rhythm of the trail over a long weekend. The atmosphere is relaxed, focusing on shared experience rather than speed, with campfires and conversation rounding out the days.

Based at the Trailhouse in Poultney, the event unfolds over three days. The schedule is designed to be inclusive, with different arrival plans for new and intermediate riders. Saturday involves setting up camp and settling in, with options for a short ride to the site. Sunday is the main event, with a choice of a gentle 26-mile loop or a more challenging 50-mile route. The weekend concludes on Monday with a final 20-mile group ride before packing up. The flow is easygoing, allowing plenty of time to soak in the surroundings and the camaraderie of the group.

The routes explore Vermont’s signature dirt roads and trails, winding through scenery dotted with swimming holes and even llamas. The terrain is varied, best suited for gravel or mountain bikes with wider tyres (45mm or more is recommended) to handle the surfaces. Expect significant elevation gain, with the 50-mile option accumulating around 4,600 feet. This bikepacking trip in Vermont is not guided; participants are expected to be self-sufficient in terms of navigation, repairs, and supplies, though volunteers are present to assist if needed.

The weekend is as much about the community as it is about the cycling. The Trailhouse provides a central hub for the campout. Evenings are spent sharing stories and skills, with informal discussions planned on topics like trailside first aid, bike maintenance, nutrition, and route planning. On Saturday night, the Trailhouse hosts a pizza dinner, offering a moment for everyone to gather and connect. This shared basecamp experience is a core part of the event’s appeal, fostering a supportive environment for all attendees.

Set against the backdrop of early autumn in New England, the region offers a classic rural riding experience. The Slate Valley’s network of unpaved roads provides a quiet escape, showcasing the state’s natural beauty. This event is a fine example of the growing bikepacking scene in the area, and those looking for similar experiences can find other gravel events in United States throughout the year. The campout is an opportunity to learn, ride, and connect with the land and the local cycling community.

This is a free event, though donations are encouraged to help support future community gatherings. It’s an ideal opportunity for anyone curious about bikepacking to gain experience in a friendly, low-pressure setting. Riders should come prepared for a fully self-supported adventure, bringing their own camping gear, food, and on-bike tools. For complete details, route information, and registration, please visit the official event website.