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About the MTA

About Millstone Trails Association

Millstone Trails Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating and maintaining a network of non-motorized recreational trails in Central Vermont. The core of our trails were developed on 1,500 acres of Barre’s privately owned historic Quarry Lands. It is our goal to develop an extensive system of trails on private land extending throughout Central Vermont. Tremendous volunteer effort has gone into opening miles of recreational trails. Please consider supporting our effort by becomong a member of Millstone Trails Association.

Our Mission

  • Create one of Vermont’s most unique non-motorized recreational areas in hopes of fostering and promoting local economic development.
  • Provide Central Vermont residents with accessible and affordable non-motorized recreational activities.
  • Draw enthusiasts regionally and nationally to Central Vermont to experience this unique setting for recreation.
  • Work in conjuction with other Central Vermont organizations such as the Granite Museum and State History Museum in making locals and tourists alike more aware and appreciative of Barre’s fascinating Granite heritage.

About Millstone Hill

Millstone Hill is Vermont’s newest and most talked about non-motorized Recreation Center. Our 1500 acres of unique terrain, with over 70 miles of scenic trails, provide access to dozens of Historic quarry sites. At Millstone Hill there is something for every outdoor enthusiast:

  • Over 50 miles of challenging single track mountain bike trails already ranked one of Vermont’s Five Best Mountain Bike Networks.
  • Over 20 miles of scenic hiking trails leading to spectacular ‘grout’ pile lookouts.
  • Miles and miles of abandoned rail beds and old quarry roads providing moderate trails for relaxed biking.
  • Dozens of scenic and romantic picnic sites.

One hundred years ago, Millstone Hill was the site of over 75 small independent quarry operations, fueling Barre’s dramatic 19th century growth and prosperity. Virtually every square foot of Millstone Hill was cleared and quarried. During the 20th century, as quarry operations consolidated, these smaller independents closed down. Gradually the quarries filled with water and the forests returned. What was a virtual industrial wasteland was reclaimed by nature and is today, Central Vermont’s man-made natural wonder!

In 2005 over 1500 acres of Barre’s historic quarry lands were, for the first time ever, opened to the public. Miles and miles of recreation trails have been giving access to several dozen historic quarry sites. In summer hike bike or picnic on some of Vermont’s most unique terrain. In winter, experience this unique terrain on skis or snow shoes, when the lack of vegetation fully exposes the many ruins of Barre’s colorful granite past. While enjoying our spectacular scenery and our amazing ‘grout’ pile lookouts, learn about Central Vermont’s fascinating granite heritage.