X-C Ski Trails Opened
Near Historic Quarries

The weekend of Saturday, Jan. 7 and Sunday, Jan. 8 marks the official grand opening of the new Millstone Hill Ski Touring Center.

This is phase two of an ambitious plan to open up to the public Barre's historic quarry lands, which constitute one of Central Vermont's man made natural wonders.

More than 30 kilometers of cross country ski trails and snowshoe trails have been created, connecting dozens of historic quarries and spectacular grout pile lookouts, giving winter sports enthusiasts access to almost 1500 acres of some of Vermonts most distinctive terrain.

One hundred years ago Millstone Hill was the site of over 50 small independent quarry operations, fueling Barre's dramatic 19th century growth and prosperity.

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 moonscape was reclaimed by nature.

Pierre Couture is spearheading efforts to develop a non-motorized recreational center on Barre's historic quarry lands. This past June, he and bike enthusiast Pete Richardson established the Millstone Hill Touring Center for biking and walking.

During the summer the Center signed up more than 150 members and hosted 1000 day visitors, daid Couture.

"So far we've had a great response to the Millstone Hill concept, signing up over 150 members and hosting about 1000 day visitors to our summer biking and hiking trails," says Couture.

Millstone Hill has been featured in many regional and national publications, including the Boston Globe, Men's Journal, and Mountain Biking magazine.

"In many ways winter is an even better time to experience Millstone Hill", Couture said. "The lack of leaves makes the many quarries and historic quarry remnants much more visible in the winter."

The Millstone Hill Ski Touring Center will encompass about 15 kilometers of groomed classic and skating trails. In addition about 10 kilometers of backwoods ungroomed trails will be accessible. About 15 kilometers of trails are designated exclusively for snow shoeing.

The Ski Touring Center, located at 422 Websterville Road in East Barre will be open seven days a week from 9:30-4:30. Rentals of skis and snowshoes are available.

A series of guided ski tours will be part of the grand opening weekend, starting at 10 a.m. Saturday.

More information is at www.Millstonehill.com.