Bringing Experience, Energy, and Vision to the Trails Alliance
The Franklin County Trails Alliance is pleased to welcome Luke Scheffler to its Board of Directors. A long-time trail user, Scheffler brings both hands-on experience and a strong interest in advancing community access to local outdoor recreation.
Originally from Montgomery, Scheffler began mountain biking at age 12 and spent much of his youth exploring the trails of northern Vermont. After living for years in Crested Butte, Colorado—an internationally recognized hub for mountain biking—he returned to Vermont in 2019. He purchased a house in St. Albans in 2021 after starting a home renovation business specializing in tile installation.
While his professional life keeps him busy, Scheffler has remained committed to outdoor recreation and community engagement. “Living in Colorado, I saw how strong and engaged a trail community can be,” he says. “I’d like to help build a similar sense of connection and momentum here.”
He joined the Trails Alliance through its VMBA chapter three years ago after the construction of the upper trails renewed his interest in local trail development. “It was clear that something meaningful was happening, and I wanted to contribute,” he recalls.
Now serving on the board, Scheffler hopes to support both infrastructure development and community programming. He’s particularly interested in expanding introductory and advanced trail options within Franklin County to reduce the need for riders to travel elsewhere for larger trail systems. “We have excellent terrain here,” he notes. “Improving access and providing more skill progression opportunities will benefit both longtime riders and encourage newcomers.”
He is also interested in exploring more community-focused events, including more established group rides, new gravel tours, and social gatherings to build engagement and visibility. “Events that bring people together and activate the trail network—those are the kinds of efforts that make a lasting impact,” he says.
One of his longer-term goals is to contribute to the continued development of the Town Forest trail system, including the addition of beginner-friendly loops that could support school programs and entry-level riders. “A balanced trail system should serve everyone—from young students and new riders to more experienced cyclists looking for technical terrain,” he adds.
When asked about his favorite trail in the area, Scheffler points to Sugar Maple. “It’s well-built, challenging without being overwhelming, and offers excellent flow. It’s a great example of the kind of riding experience we can offer more of in Franklin County.”
As a new member of the Trails Alliance Board, Scheffler is eager to learn more about current initiatives and where he can best contribute. “I’m looking forward to understanding more about the priorities of the network and how I can help move those goals forward,” he says. “There’s real potential here–offering great trails will create a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.”