What is VAST?

History of VAST

Founded almost 40 years ago, VAST is responsible for the organization of the sport, maintaining and grooming trails. One of the oldest snowmobiling organizations in the U.S., VAST is a non-profit, private group that includes 138 clubs statewide, with over 35,000 members combined. The clubs and their steadfast volunteers are the backbone of the organization.

The Board of Directors

VAST is run by 14 Directors, who are elected by the clubs in each of Vermont's 14 counties and by four officers also elected by the members. The VAST office is overseen by seven full-time employees and one seasonal employee and is centrally located in Berlin, Vermont.

Who owns the land the trails are on?

Vermont's snowmobiling season usually starts December 16th, after hunting season, and ends in mid April, snow permitting. Vermont's northern location receives an average of 100-250 inches of snow, and with its high elevations, it often means that rain in southern New England falls as snow here.

Eighty percent of Vermont's trail system is on private land. Snowmobiling is a privilege and is permitted only through the traditional generosity of thousands of property owners. Respecting the land by showing courtesy and not littering will ensure that New England's best trail system remains open for years to come.

How is it possible to ride on private land?

Landowner permission is required to ride on private land. Local clubs obtain landowner permission for trails on private property. All riders in Vermont must belong to VAST and a local club to ride legally in the state. There is a substantial fine for riding without a TMA.

VAST trails are for winter use only!

Permission to use snowmobile trails does not extend to use of these trails by ATVs, four-wheelers, motor or mountain bikes, hiking or other uses, unless specifically authorized. A VAST trail is a trail only during the snow season; any other use will be considered trespassing. Please respect the rights of the landowners and remember to say thank you.

Remember, you are VAST… get involved!