Vermont Huts & Trails Executive Director Transitions to Part-Time Role Focused on Hut & Trail Development

September 24, 2026

After a decade of leadership, co-founder returns to hands-on project work as organization begins search for its next Executive Director

WATERBURY, VT /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – After 10 years of dedicated service, Vermont Huts & Trails (VHT) Executive Director and co-founder, RJ Thompson, is transitioning this winter to a part-time role focused on facilitating new hut and trail projects.

RJ’s decision arrives at a moment of real strength for VHT. The organization he co-founded in 2016 has grown from a grassroots idea into a thriving network of backcountry huts and trails stretching across Vermont. Through RJ’s leadership, the hard work of the VHT staff, and the support from countless partners, donors, members, volunteers, and land managers, the organization has:

• Expanded their network to 22 huts (with another hut and hostel on the horizon)
• Hosted over 60,000 hut guests
• Built over 32 miles of new and/or improved Velomont Trail
• Brought over 100 miles of Velomont Trail to shovel-ready status
• Hosted nearly 300 FOREST Program participants
• Partnered to conserve thousands of acres, support local economies, and increase access to outdoor recreation
• Secured nearly $10 million in private and public funding to support the organization’s mission

This move will allow RJ to focus on the type of work that helped build the organization a decade ago and create space for him to spend valued time with his family—all while remaining on staff to ensure a smooth transition and offer continued advisory support.

“Ten years ago this organization started with a big idea and an inspired community,” said Thompson. “I’m extremely proud of what we’ve accomplished and the positive impact we’ve created across the state. Handing off the Executive Director role doesn’t mean stepping away, it means getting back to the work I love most—finding the next hut site, walking the next stretch of trail, and building the things that get more people outside.”

“RJ and the team built something remarkable over the past ten years, and our community is deeply grateful for his vision and leadership,” said Mike Donohue, VHT Board of Directors President. “This transition gives us a real opportunity to bring in a new Executive Director with a fresh perspective at a moment when our organization has never been stronger. We see this as a chance to grow into our next chapter, not just fill a vacancy.”

The VHT Board of Directors is launching a search for VHT’s next Executive Director. Interested parties can learn more about what we are looking for in our future leader and apply at vermonthuts.org/work-with-us

About Vermont Huts & Trails

Vermont Huts & Trails is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit; our mission is to foster a deeper appreciation for our natural environment and strengthen Vermont’s communities by providing enriching and immersive outdoor experiences for all. VHT is headquartered at 87 S. Main St., Waterbury, VT 05676.

Media Contact

Matt Ogelby matt@vermonthuts.org

Marketing Director (802) 798-3003

Vermont Huts & Trails vermonthuts.org