Late Winter 2026 | 11
Events
BRATTLEBORO ANNUAL WINTER CARNIVAL – VERNON TRAIL RIDERS
By Don Rosinski
This year marks the 70th anniversary 
of Brattleboro’s Annual Winter 
Carnival. For many years, the carnival 
has brought together residents and 
visitors to celebrate winter, with the 
Recreation Area serving as the center 
of activity. It is a unique location, with 
both a ski slope and two ball fields that 
become winter use areas once the snow 
arrives.
One of the most popular attractions 
is run by members of the Vernon 
Trail Riders. Don Rosinski and Roy 
Gangloff take over the upper ball field 
and groom it into a smooth oval track. 
It provides a good setup to introduce 
people of all ages to snowmobiling in a 
safe environment.
Riders line up, some trying it for the 
first time, while others return each 
year. For those who do not want to 
ride on a snowmobile, the Ice Fishing 
Sled offers another option. Either way, 
people enjoy the experience.
Many riders go around the track 
more than once. It does not take long 
to get comfortable. The easygoing 
atmosphere makes it simple for 
newcomers to give it a try. Over the 
years, many people have had their first 
snowmobile ride on that oval.
That is what the Winter Carnival 
is about. It brings the community 
together and gives families a chance 
to enjoy the outdoors. Volunteers help 
keep things running, from grooming 
the track to assisting riders.
After 70 years, the snowmobile 
rides have become more than just 
an attraction. For many, it is their 
introduction to the sport.

View this content as a flipbook by clicking here.