Hello. I hope you'll consider supporting the Catamount Trail by donating to our first ever Vermont Backcountry Challenge. We are the only state that can boast a 300+ mile ski trail that allows skiers to ski the North-South length of the state. I discovered cross country skiing my junior year in college -- cross country skiing opportunities were nonexistent in Atlanta, Georgia where I grew up -- and I have been an enthusiastic (if not always elegant) skier ever since. During the three years I lived in Paris in the early 2000's, I joined the French version of the CTA (to my way of thinking, anyways), the CIHM or Club International de la Haute Montagne. Thanks to the CIHM, I discovered the backcountry, and when I returned to Vermont in 2007, I was longing for a way to continue the adventure. I stumbled into the CTA online, and its members welcomed me with open arms. I can say I'm an end-to-ender on the Catamount Trail thanks to the multi-day tours we sponsor. More importantly, I've made many of my very best friends thanks to to my membership. I hope you'll consider sponsoring me, becoming a member, renewing your membership or simply discovering a section of the trail this winter. The Vermont Backountry is a unique resource here in Northern New England, and the Catamount Trail Association and its chapters are working hard to protect and improve the Vermont Backcountry, and the Catamount Trail, for future generations to enjoy.

The Vermont Backcountry Challenge is an opportunity to give back to the backcountry community here in Vermont. The CTA has spent the last 35+ years working to protect our wild spaces, make possible amazing outdoor winter experiences, and expand access to the outdoors for all communities. This work enhances the lives of every person in Vermont and is a large part of why Vermont is such a wonderful place to spend time. 

​It's for these reasons, and more, we need you to get involved, to fundraise, to donate, and to challenge yourself. Because when we work together amazing things happen!