Hartland Winter Trails

Hartland Winter Trails was started in the 1970's by Hartland resident Henry Merritt. the trails now total more than 25 kilometers of varied - and sometimes challenging - terrain for cross country skiers and snowshoers to enjoy during the winter months. These trails are free to the public, though donations of time or money are needed to keep the trails open and maintained. Free maps and information are available within sign-in boxes strategically located along the trails, as well as on our web site (http://www.hartlandwintertrails.org) and on our Facebook page. More detailed maps printed on re-usable paper are available for sale at local shops during the winter season.

We have been saving our pennies from donations and, with the help of the L.F. Trottier & Sons at Exit 9 in Hartland, we were able to purchase a John Deere Gator UTV to pull our TidTech groomer. Gary Trachier spent hundreds of hours programming and building the remote electronic controls for the TidTech groomer. Trottier & Sons gave us all the price breaks they could for a non-profit organization and did all the labor for free to convert the Gator to an enclosed (with heat) tracked unit. Now with the PB70DR and the new Gator, we are able to groom in nearly any condition - but we do still need some white stuff on the ground to work our magic!

We continue to present the Tiki Torch Trek on a Saturday in February. This is a great family event to get out, enjoy some of the trails illuminated by torches and lanterns, and eat some great food provided by local restaurants and bakers. Look for signs advertising this event next January and on our website/Facebook page. We will always be there, no matter the weather. We have endured ice, freezing rain, lightning storms, heavy snowfall, and brutally cold temperatures in years past. Watching everyone, including young children, having a great time despite the conditions is something I will always remember.

HWT received a donation to support a Nordic club. The Hartland Recreation Department is willing to provide the registration and transportation from school to the trails. HWT would provide the trails and a small stipend for someone willing to run this program. Contact the Hartland Recreation Department or HWT if you are interested and would like more information.

As with many organization sin town, nothing would be possible without the volunteers. We always hold our full day of trail work the last Saturday in October, and our annual meeting and potluck is held in November. Check the website for information.

Thank you so much to the Town of Hartland for plowing the parking area across from the fire station. I would especially like to thank the landowners whose property the trail crosses for allowing access to anyone and everyone to enjoy outdoor winter recreation. I feel lucky to live in such a wonderful community.

Please visit our website at https://hartlandwintertrails.org/

Andrea Ambros, aabros@vermontel.net

Monetary donations can be sent to:
Hartland Winter Trails
PO Box 128
Hartland, Vermont 05048