BC Zones
Backcountry Glade Preparation Volunteer Work Days
Many hands make light work! We need your help to get the backcountry glades ready for the upcoming season! Join us as often as you can and you’re welcome to participate even if you can’t spend the full day. Bring water, food, gloves, and the appropriate footwear. Be prepared for working in the woods!
We will have extra PPE and hand tools available, including a few brush cutters. You are welcome to bring your own tools too. You must have a current sawyer certification on file with Ridgeline to operate a chainsaw.
When & Where:
Braintree Mountain Forest
Sunday 10/25 9AM – 3PM
Sunday 11/8 9AM – 3PM
Sunday 11/15 9AM – 3PM
Note: You’re welcome to participate even if you can’t spend the full day. Please meet at 9AM for check in.
Meet up point: Trailhead parking at the intersection of Riford Brook Rd. and Laroque Rd. in Braintree
Contact: Hannah Wilson for more information hannahwilsonvt@gmail.com
Brandon Gap
Tuesday Afternoons
We will kick off the Tuesday afternoon work sessions on September 1. We will meet at 1PM at the Long Trail lot on Brandon Gap in Goshen and return @ 5PM. Tuesday afternoon sessions run through October.
Weekend Days
Saturday 10/24 9AM – 3PM
Sunday 11/1 9AM – 3PM
Saturday 11/7 9AM – 3PM
Note: You’re welcome to participate even if you can’t spend the full day. Please meet at 9AM for check in.
Meet up point: Long Trail parking lot on Brandon Gap, RT 73 in Goshen
Contact: Karl Fjeld for more information karlfjld6@gmail.com
2027 Backcountry Tours
Join us for exciting backcountry adventures this winter! Ridgeline is leading guided tours in the stunning Brandon Gap and Braintree Mountain Forests throughout January, February, and March. These trips provide opportunities to explore breathtaking scenery, hone your backcountry skills, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Before registering for any CTA tour please read the following information:
Skier Responsibilities
Recommended Equipment List
Skills and Fitness Guidelines
To sign-up for a tour please follow the steps below.
- Fill out CTA Single-Day Tour Online Waiver.
- Please register in advance of the tour. Do not wait until the night before.
Click Here for CTA Tours Schedule
Brandon Gap Ski/Snowboard Tours
Dates TBD
Meet at 9:00am at the Long Trail lot on Brandon Gap
Length: 6 hours
SIGN UP HERE
For More Info: Email Karl Fjeld
Braintree Mountain Forest Ski/Snowboard Tours
Dates TBD
Riford Brook Rd – Braintree Mountain Forest lot
Length: 6 hours
SIGN UP HERE
For More Info: Email Hannah Wilson
BRANDON GAP
Backcountry Recreation Area is located in the Green Mountain National Forest, south of Vermont Route 73 at Brandon Gap. The Brandon Gap Backcountry Recreation Area consists of 4 separate ski zones accessed from 2 trailheads, and connected by the Long Trail corridor.
The Bear Brook Trailhead, about 1 mile east of the top of Brandon Gap, is the entry point to Bear Brook Bowl and the No-Name Ski Zones. The Sunrise Bowl and Goshen Mountain Backcountry areas are both accessed from the Long Trail Parking Lot on Brandon Gap.
For more information on this area visit the Brandon Gap Information Page.
BRAINTREE MOUNTAIN FOREST
Located off of Riford Brook Rd in Braintree, VT the parcel includes a vast portion of the Braintree Range with four peaks rising up to 3,030 feet. Trailhead parking and kiosk is located at the intersection of RIford Brook Rd and Laroque Rd in Braintree, VT. Winter use is for Backcountry Skiing/Snowboarding and Snowshoeing. No motorized vehicles or mountain biking is permitted at BMF.
For more information visit the Braintree Mountain Forest Page.
Preparing for a Backcountry Trip
Every Year people are injured, lost or even die in winter recreation related accidents. This is a remote, unpatrolled area where hidden hazards, changing conditions and varied terrain all affect your safety. Be prepared for a backcountry emergency by carrying enough gear and extra warm clothing to be self-sufficient for an extended period of time. Help can be difficult to summon and there may be significant delay in receiving emergency assistance. Bring a map and never ski/ride alone. In case of an emergency call 911.
Learn more about BC Safety and appropriate BC Ethics here. Safety is everyone’s responsibility and compliance with proper BC Ethics ensures continued access to these treasured recreation areas.
