Fall Adventures in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom: Ride, Race & Recharge at Burke Basecamp

There’s something about fall in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom that feels almost enchanted. Mornings start with mist rising from the fields, afternoons glow with golden light filtering through maple leaves, and evenings carry the faint scent of woodsmoke curling from nearby chimneys. Whether you’re pedaling deep into the forest or lacing up for a trail run, the crunch of leaves underfoot and the crisp mountain air remind you that this is a fleeting, magical season.

For endurance junkies, autumn in the NEK isn’t just about soaking up the colors—it’s about pushing limits, finding your flow, and joining in on races that celebrate the wild spirit of these hills. This year, two unforgettable events are waiting: the legendary CircumVictory and the community-fueled HBRN8R.

CircumVictory: The Big Loop Returns

After a seven-year pause, the CircumVictory is back at Victory Hill, and athletes couldn’t be more excited. This is a race where you choose your challenge: take on the massive loop by bike or test your legs in the trail running category. Either way, you’ll be climbing through quiet forests where red maples blaze overhead and flying down descents lined with golden leaves. It’s equal parts grit and celebration—a day-long adventure wrapped in the camaraderie that defines the NEK community.

📅 Date & Details: Learn more & register here
📍 Location: Victory Hill, Vermont
📲 Follow along: @victoryhillmtb, @dynamiccycling, @island_industries_

The event is made even richer by the sponsors who bring Vermont flavor to the day. @thetipsypickle (thetispypickle.com) brings the crunch of their creative brined snacks, and @vtsmoke (vtsmoke.com) adds the deep aroma of their slow-smoked meats. Out in the pits or warming up before another lap, athletes lean on @jetboil (jetboil.com) for hot meals on the go, and @katesrealfood (katesrealfood.com) for organic energy bars that taste as good as they fuel.

And when the racing’s done? There’s a cold pint from @dirtchurchbrewingco (dirtchurchbrewing.com), a refreshing non-alcoholic option from @athleticbrewing (athleticbrewing.com), and a plate of flavorful tacos from @tacosdelreino. Whether you ride or run, the CircumVictory is more than a race—it’s a fall festival on the trails.

The HBRN8R: Gravel in the Glow of Fall

If bikes are your calling, the HBRN8R—affectionately known as “The Hibernator”—is your fall endurance testpiece. This mixed-surface gravel and mountain bike race rolls out from Honest to Goodness Farm in West Burke, winding through farmland, forest, and quiet dirt roads framed by fiery foliage. Riders can expect a mix of grit and beauty: grinding climbs, flowing descents, and sweeping views at every turn.

📅 Date & Details: Learn more & register here
📍 Location: Honest to Goodness Farm, West Burke, VT
📲 Follow along: @hibernatormixedgravel, @honesttogoodnessfarmvt

The farm itself is part of the magic. More than just a venue, @honesttogoodnessfarmvt is a working farm rooted in sustainability and community, where the warmth of local culture meets the thrill of endurance racing. The HBRN8R captures that essence: rugged, rewarding, and undeniably Vermont.

Be sure to snag some HTGFarm Maple Syrup after the race!

Where to Stay: Trails at Your Doorstep

Of course, if you’re coming to East Burke for either of these races—or simply to carve your own foliage adventure—you’ll want a home base that keeps you close to the action. That’s where Burke Basecamp comes in.

At Burke Basecamp, the trails start right at your door. You can roll out onto Rae’s Way for a morning ride, chase golden light on Darling Hill, or lace up for an evening run as the last colors of sunset paint the ridgelines. When the day’s effort is done, you’ll return to a cozy fire, a hearty meal, and views that remind you why the NEK is unlike anywhere else.

Plan Your NEK Adventure

🍂 Sign up for CircumVictory
🍂 Sign up for HBRN8R
🍂 Book your stay at Burke Basecamp

Book Now

Fall in the NEK doesn’t last forever—but the memories you’ll make on these trails sure will. See you out there!