Champlain Area Trails (CATS) is a non-profit organization, begun in 2009, which creates and maintains hiking and cross-country ski trails in the Champlain Valley that link communities, connect people with nature, and promote economic vitality.  In its short history, CATS has developed eight miles of trails that when added to existing trails, gets it half-way toward the long-envisioned goal of a 30-mile trail loop between Westport and Essex.  CATS will extend its trails to neighboring towns and eventually connect them to trails in the Adirondack Mountains, Vermont, and Quebec.

The Champlain Valley is a beautiful landscape of farms, forests, low mountains, charming hamlets, and breathtaking views.  Unfortunately, the Valley has little public land and few hiking trails which combine to limit the economic benefits and pleasures of outdoor recreation.  CATS – CVCP is addressing this problem by developing trails, conserving land, and promoting tourism, local farms, and businesses.