Kate Carter loves Vermont's woodland trails. As a mountain biker she has learned their bumps, bends and summer eccentricities. Kate says she gets her best writing ideas when riding. "Going out into the woods and riding is a form of meditation with the side benefit of exercise," she says, "It's the same with any aerobic sport." When snow forces her to put her bike away for the winter, Kate simply straps on her cross-country skis or her snowshoes and doesn't miss a day on the trails.

Professionally Kate Carter is the publisher and managing editor of Vermont Sports Today. This unique magazine devotes itself to individual aerobic sports and related sporting events within Vermont. She is also the chair of Vermont Mountain Bike Advocates, a statewide organization that promotes the preservation of existing trails and the opening of new ones.

Her expertise and enthusiasm infuse her book Mountain Bike! Vermont, a title in the America by Mountain Bike series. Kate lives in Waterbury Center, Vermont.

"Find a sport that is right for you," Kate advises, "It doesn't have to be biking, it can be canoeing or hiking, and get out there every day. It's a break for you and it makes you a more bearable person."

Mountain Bike! Vermont provides detailed information on over 60 of the state's classic rides, including tours in the Green Mountains, through rural valleys, and along roads that date back to Colonial times. Author Kate Carter profiles a diverse collection of trails that offer a wealth of enjoyment to fat-tire enthusiasts of all abilities. From technical rides along rocky, overgrown paths to leisurely rides for the whole family, if it's good riding, it's profiled here.

Each route profile features:

• at-a-glance key information
• a thorough ride description
• a detailed trail map
• helpful sources of information
• proximity of important services
• valuable commentary on elevation changes and possible hazards
• a rescue index