What better way to experience the beauty of Vermont than on a carfree bike trail that follows a scenic river and passes through several towns? That’s the idea Jim and Yva Rose had in mind when they started LAMOILLE VALLEY BIKE TOURS . “We saw this as an opportunity to start a business on what will be the longest recreational rail trail in New England—the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail,”said Jim. “By renting e-bikes, we can get more people out on the trail and they can bike farther, travel faster, and see more in less time. They’ll also arrive less sweaty, as e-bikes provide a pedal assist up to 20 miles per hour.”

 

Located near the trailhead in Johnson, Lamoille Valley Bike Tours offers bike and e-bike rentals and both self-guided and guided tours. Although the business is mobile and group rentals and tours can be arranged off the trail, the business is focused on the 17-mile trail between Cambridge and Morrisville, and the 93 miles from the Connecticut River to Lake Champlain. Recently, the business launched a full trail, 14-passenger shuttle service for people, bikes, and luggage for those who want to travel the trail by bike and need transportation back to their vehicles. The shuttle service provides bike and e-bike rentals to guests who want full- or half-trail travel but can't bring their own bike. 

 

 

“There’s so much to do when people visit Vermont, and e-bikes provide an adventure with an activity level that fits them,” added Jim. “People can do all the pedaling or they can use the electric motor for a pedal assist, so people with different biking abilities can enjoy the trail. We also have traditional pedal bikes.”

 

Jim and Yva have formed networks with many local businesses that can be visited and experienced by e-bikes. They provide their customers with a ride guide containing information on local places of interest, so that in addition to biking, they can shop, eat, swim, or have a beer at a local craft brewery. “E-bikes provide a unique experience into Vermont and a way to experience outdoor Vermont more intimately than in a car,” added Jim. “This is a more sustainable form of tourism. I love seeing people return after their ride with an e-bike smile and come back as happy customers.”  


BIKE TOURS
 Lamoille Valley Bike Tours offers a number of half-day and full-day e-bike tours, and they’re always looking to add new experiences. Here are a number of popular options for those looking for fun things to do.

SUMMER ADVENTURE TOUR
This self-guided option lets bikers explore the four villages on the trail, beautiful scenery, and shopping and dining experiences at their own pace.

PEDAL PADDLE TOUR
Combines a canoe or kayak excursion on the Lamoille River with local business, VT Canoe and Kayak, and a scenic e-bike trail ride. This is a great way to enjoy two distinct experiences in one day.

VERMONT BIKE & BREW TOUR
The most popular guided e-bike tour includes stops at three local craft breweries so bikers can see and sip the best of Lamoille County. Includes a free appetizer and two souvenir pint glasses.

FALL FOLIAGE TOUR
 Experience Vermont’s spectacular fall foliage in an unforgettable new way—from the seat of an   e-bike. This self-guided adventure includes breathtaking fall colors at no extra charge.
 
FAT BIKE SAFARI TOUR
This guided overland adventure tour is a great option for those looking for a more active  experience. Enjoy beautiful back roads, covered bridges, rivers, and trails.

New tour options include the Bike and Brew self-guided tour, Bike Fishing tour, Nake November Adventure Tour, Winter Fireside Fat Tire e-bike tour, and a Spring Adventure tour.

 Visit www.lamoillevalleybiketours.com for more information or to book a tour. 

LAMOILLE VALLEY BIKE TOURS
19 Creamery St.
Johnson, VT
(802) 730-0161
lamoillevalleybiketours.com