By Polly Mikula
“Whether you’re just starting out or have years on the trail, this program is all about riding together, building confidence, and sharing a passion for the sport,” Killington Resort states on its website.
The group rides focus on learning and practicing skills in a supportive and fun environment. Skills covered include: body position, visual skills, braking, balance, cornering, off-camber work, rock gardens, high speed cornering, descents, drops and other skills, based on group needs/interest and time.
“The women there are so incredible,” said Ali Hannon, from Chittenden. “They’re really inspirational and they take the time to answer all of your questions. It’s such a range of ages and abilities. I typically ride with all men… I was able to go down my first black diamond bike trail with Divas of Dirt because they showed me that I could set my own line and navigate harder terrain by planning for smaller sections of the trail. Being in a group of women led by women reduced the stress I had about performance and it felt like it leveled the playing field. Watching women 1-2 decades older and younger than me was like being in an intergenerational emotional support group but for downhilling,” she said.
This year marks the ninth summer for the successful women’s program. It began in 2016 when downhill/enduro pro racer Amy Alton partnered with Killington Resort and launched “Divas of Dirt Gravity Camp.” While the program has changed over the years, it has always been committed to fostering camaraderie and confidence while learning new skills in a supportive, welcoming environment.
Divas of Dirt is open to all women age 18-plus. Pre-registration is required as space is limited to 20 riders per session. The sessions are 2-hour long (3-5 p.m.) on Fridays from June through September (June 27; July 11, 18, 25; Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22; Sept. 5, 2025). Participants can choose to sign up for a single session ($20) or join for the season ($99).
Rentals and lift access are also required to participate (discounts offered for those without equipment or a pass).
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