Pride 2021 spotlight: Pride Rides VT
This Vermont-based organization creates space for under-represented communities in the sport of mountain biking.
Get access to everything we publish when you sign up for Outside+.
Throughout the month of June, we’re highlighting organizations and initiatives that advocate for greater outdoor access among the LGBTQ+ community. Today’s feature is Pride Rides, an organization that works to make mountain biking more open to everyone.
Rock gardens, babyheads, downed logs…mountain biking is a really tough sport for a newbie to master. Now imagine riding your first singletrack while also being the only queer rider in the crew. It can be a big challenge, especially in a rural community where support systems don’t exist.
That’s why organizations like Pride Rides VT are so important. They create space for under-represented communities to network, learn from one another, gain strength, and—yes—endo together. And this is essential in driving participation within the sports we love.
Read more: A new mountain biking magazine is born
Founded by professional bike mechanic and trail advocate Kris Hunt, Pride Rides serves as a safe and welcoming opportunity for members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies to ride mountain bikes together. In addition to monthly meet-ups, Pride Rides VT leads critical mass rides in the state capital, sponsors an entry-level race team, and hosts skills clinics in partnership with Stowe Mountain Bike Academy to help queer riders progress.
Pride Rides VT is currently seeking $15,000 in donations to build a fleet of mountain bikes to help get more new riders into the sport. You can contribute here.
