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Vermont Gravel Bike Tour

Explore serene gravel roads on this bike tour from the Green Mountains to the Northeast Kingdom

Tour Duration

Discover, Gravel

Activity Level

Hotel Level

Trek Checkpoint SLR 7 Trek Electric-Assist Domane+ SLR 7

Starting from

$ 2,199.00 per person

Have a question?

Pedal Vermont's remote gravel roads, stay in quaint inns, and savor farm fresh meals

There's no better place for a gravel bike tour than Vermont where there are literally more miles of dirt than pavement! Join us for this unpaved adventure deep into the heart of the Green Mountains and Northeast Kingdom. You'll ride smooth gravel roads weaving through farmland and forest, and connecting quaint small-towns like Stowe, Waterbury, Craftsbury, and East Burke via the paths less traveled. Each day will bring a new adventure, with the common thread of Vermont's signature short, punchy climbs. And to top if off, Summer in Vermont means plenty of swimming holes, farm fresh food, maple creemees, and local brews! Learn more about Gravel trips and if they're right for you »

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Explore the remote, scenic unpaved roads of the Green Mountains and Northeast Kingdom

Stay at Inn at Mountain View Farm, a historic landmark located on Vermont's most scenic gravel road

Enjoy Summer in Vermont with farm fresh meals, swimming holes, maple creemees and craft brews

Savor the views as you pedal through bucolic landscapes, next to babbling brooks and along stunning Lake Willoughby

Relax into small town life as you pedal from one quaint village to another

tree lined gravel road

Gravel roads of Vermont

Discover why Vermont is the birthplace of gravel

An ideal oasis for gravel biking exists here in Vermont at the Inn where the idea of combining rustic cycling, farm fresh food and a good nights sleep is easy to come by.

What Guests are Saying

Two cyclists standing in front of Hill Farmstead Brewery sign

Having taken multiple Trek Travel trips I didn't know what to expect on my first gravel version, I was happy that this was just as good as the other trips. The guides were top notch and knew their stuff for gravel and showed great initiative and discernment in making the trip a success despite the challenging weather and surprisingly tough and rewarding course.

Eric, Trek Travel Guest

A group of cyclists in front of a covered bridge

I had a great time on the trip. We had a good group of travelers, and the guides did a good job of facilitating a positive atmosphere on the trip. The attention to detail for catering to riders needs ... was great. The mix of Today and Avid rides seemed to work out well for both groups. I did all Avids, but it didn't seem like either group was inconvenienced by the other, which is logistical challenge.

Colin, Trek Travel Guest

Two women in cycling gear smiling

This was my fourth Trek Travel trip and Shay and Steve were excellent guides. It was the inaugural Trek Travel Gravel trip and was excellent.

Linda, Trek Travel Guest

Four cyclists in front of the Craftsbury General Store

This was my first trip with Trek Travel, so I wasn't sure what to expect, but my experience exceeded all expectations. Can't wait for my next Trek Travel trip. Routes were excellent and provided riders some fantastic views and also provided a great taste of the area.

Richard, Trek Travel Guest

View of Lake Willoughby with steep rock walls on either side

East Burke to Lake Willoughby Loop

Pedal remote dirt roads with challenging climbs, long forested descents and a few miles along the shore of magnificent Lake Willoughby.

Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

Join Waitlist

Limited Availability

June 23-27, 2024 guaranteed.

Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:

Green Mountain Inn

Inn at mountain view farm.

Available bikes:

Trek Checkpoint SLR 7

Trek electric-assist domane+ slr 7, $ 2199.00 per person.

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy from: + 599.00

July 7-11, 2024 Guaranteed

$ 2299.00 per person, july 28-august 1, 2024 guaranteed, $ 2399.00 per person, august 4-8, 2024, june 29-july 3, 2025, july 6-10, 2025, july 27-31, 2025, august 3-7, 2025, august 10-14, 2025, looking for a private tour with us.

Private tours can range in cost based on your group size. See below for specific pricing based on your group size.

Looking for a date that you don't see?

Look no further. Simply tell us your preferred travel dates and we’ll work together to deliver the same great trip on your custom schedule. Want to make a few changes to your itinerary, no problem. We will work with you to make sure your custom vacation is the ultimate vacation of a lifetime for your group.

You have another booking already in progress

Booking a new trip will cancel all of your previous booking progress. Continue your previous booking or proceed with your new booking.

Arrival / Departure

Where to Arrive

Burlington International Airport (BTV)

Pick-up location :

Hilton Hotel, Burlington, Vermont

Pick-up time :

Where to Depart

Drop-off location :

Burlington International Airport (BTV), Burlington, Vermont

Drop-off time :

Additional Arrival Information

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays.

We recommend that you fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV). It is approximately four miles from the airport to downtown Burlington. A taxi ride should take about 10-15 minutes and cost $20-$25. If you are driving, you can park at the Lakeview (41 Cherry St) or College Street (60 College St) Garage for $8/day and pay via the Park Mobile app.

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Hilton Burlington (60 Battery Street, Burlington VT 05401) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. You and your traveling companions will shuttle approximately one hour to Stowe for a picnic lunch and a bike fitting session followed by your first ride. Please feel free to dress comfortably for the shuttle, but keep your riding gear handy and separate from your main luggage. You will be able to change at the hotel. Your main luggage will be stored until your room is ready.

If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Green Mountain Inn (802-253-7301), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.

Additional Departure Information

You will say farewell to your guides at 1:00 PM at the Burlington International Airport (BTV). Please do not schedule a flight before 3:00 PM on the last day of the trip to allow plenty of time for any unforeseen delays. Alternatively, your guides can drop you off at the Hilton Burlington (60 Battery Street, Burlington VT 05401) around 1:30 PM.

Day 1 Get your first taste gravel in the Green Mountains

Get your first taste gravel in the Green Mountains

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Hilton Hotel in Burlington at 11:00 am for a one-hour private shuttle to Stowe where your trip begins with a signature Trek Travel picnic. As you begin to get acquainted with your fellow travelers, your guides will lead a bike fitting session to familiarize you with your Trek Checkpoint gravel bike and ensure a comfortable ride for the week. Afterwards, you'll be off and pedaling on an appetizer ride around Stowe. A few m... Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Hilton Hotel in Burlington at 11:00 am for a one-hour private shuttle to Stowe where your trip begins with a signature Trek Travel picnic. As you begin to get acquainted with your fellow travelers, your guides will lead a bike fitting session to familiarize you with your Trek Checkpoint gravel bike and ensure a comfortable ride for the week. Afterwards, you'll be off and pedaling on an appetizer ride around Stowe. A few miles in, you'll get your the first taste of this region's signature smooth gravel roads, which make up about half of today's ride. The climbing is rewarded with a dirt descent past a covered bridge and next to a babbling brook -- a fitting preview of the rides ahead. Once back in town, you'll get checked-in and have some time to get settled before gathering for a quick shuttle to our favorite local gem, Bistro at Ten Acres. Your guides will provide an overview of the adventures to come as you enjoy a welcome drink and a delightful farm-to-table dinner. Read More

Meals included

Lunch | Dinner

Dinner at Bistro at Ten Acres

Highlight of the Day

Dinner at Bistro at Ten Acres

Get to know your fellow guests and guides as you enjoy a farm-to-table dinner.

Ride Options

Ride Option 1

TODAY'S RIDE:

Stowe Loop - Approximately 17 mi | 27 km and 1,400 ft | 427 m

Day 2 Pedal through picturesque rural landscapes and a haunted covered bridge

Pedal through picturesque rural landscapes and a haunted covered bridge

Rise to your first full day on vacation with breakfast at your leisure. Today gravel and pavement are interspersed with the gravel making up just over half of the ride. Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the rural landscape as you pedal through sprawling farmland toward Waterbury. Settlers landed here in 1763, attracted to its abundance of water, timber and fertile soil, which you'll notice still holds true today. En route, you'll also ride through a haunted covere... Rise to your first full day on vacation with breakfast at your leisure. Today gravel and pavement are interspersed with the gravel making up just over half of the ride. Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the rural landscape as you pedal through sprawling farmland toward Waterbury. Settlers landed here in 1763, attracted to its abundance of water, timber and fertile soil, which you'll notice still holds true today. En route, you'll also ride through a haunted covered bridge and past an iconic Vermont barn in a picture perfect setting. As you head back to Stowe, today's ride ends with a relatively flat loop, while the avid option tackles a steep climb up to the Trapp Family Lodge. Whatever you choose, after the ride, enjoy lunch at a cafe of your choosing in Stowe. The rest of the day is yours to explore town or relax by the pool. Dinner is also your choice this evening, armed with suggestions from your guides. If you are a fan of craft brews, we recommend a visit to the Stowe Public House. Read More

Explore Stowe

Explore Stowe

Enjoy a free afternoon in this quaint village nestled at the foot of the Green Mountains

Stowe to Waterbury Loop - Approximately 32 mi | 51 km and 3,075 ft | 937 m

Ride Option 2

SHORT OPTION:

Stowe to Waterbury Loops - Approximately 24 mi | 39 km and 2,675 ft | 815 m

Ride Option 3

AVID OPTION:

Stowe to Waterbury Loop with Trapp Lodge Climb - Approximately 34 mi | 55 km and 3,675 ft | 1,120 m

Day 3 Tackle the backwoods route to East Burke and enjoy lunch at a Hill Farmstead Brewery

Tackle the backwoods route to East Burke and enjoy lunch at a Hill Farmstead Brewery

Get ready for a big unpaved adventure today! After breakfast, you'll say farewell to Stowe and begin your sojourn to Vermont's most rural region known as the Northeast Kingdom. Avid riders will start pedaling straight away, while others will enjoy a more leisurely morning and shuttle to lunch. The route is nearly 75 percent gravel bliss as you meander through the hills and forests on those sublime gravel roads that Vermont is famous for. We'll pause to take in the v... Get ready for a big unpaved adventure today! After breakfast, you'll say farewell to Stowe and begin your sojourn to Vermont's most rural region known as the Northeast Kingdom. Avid riders will start pedaling straight away, while others will enjoy a more leisurely morning and shuttle to lunch. The route is nearly 75 percent gravel bliss as you meander through the hills and forests on those sublime gravel roads that Vermont is famous for. We'll pause to take in the views of Lake Elmore, then make our way to the tiny village of Craftsbury, where The Genny has a long history of serving up a welcoming smile and amazing eats to cyclists. A few miles later, in true Vermont fashion, a brewery appears in the middle of nowhere. It's too inviting to pass up, so we'll stop here for a picnic and an optional brew. Afterwards, all routes proceed on more sublime, rural gravel roads that deliver you to the Inn at Mountain View Farm. A landmark of the Darling Hill Historic District, this lovingly restored 440 acre farm is your home for the next two nights. Once settled into your room, you'll have a chance to get acquainted with the farm, from the impressive barns to the gardens and trails to the rescued horses that now call it home. This evening, enjoy a casual dinner on your own in nearby East Burke followed followed by a taste of Vermont's renowned specialty - the maple creemee - or perhaps s'mores around the bonfire back at the hotel. Read More

Breakfast | Lunch

Enjoy the silence

Enjoy the silence

Meander through the hills and forests on sublime gravel roads.

Hill Farmstead to East Burke with Shuttle - Approximately 27 mi | 43 km and 2,550 ft | 777 m

Stannard to East Burke with Shuttle - Approximately 17 mi | 27 km and 1,575 ft | 480 m

Stowe to East Burke - Approximately 62 mi | 100 km and 6,000 ft | 1,829 m

Day 4 Adventure through the unpaved side of the Northeast Kingdom

Adventure through the unpaved side of the Northeast Kingdom

Rugged and rustic meet serene and scenic on today's adventure. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll depart for a challenging loop that is almost entirely gravel, punctuated with what else but farms, forests, lakes and ponds. Every Spring, the locals gather to race these gravel roads on a route known as Rasputitsa, which is Russian for mud season. While we admire their grit, we are choosing to enjoy these quiet and incredible roads in near perfect conditions in the warm... Rugged and rustic meet serene and scenic on today's adventure. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll depart for a challenging loop that is almost entirely gravel, punctuated with what else but farms, forests, lakes and ponds. Every Spring, the locals gather to race these gravel roads on a route known as Rasputitsa, which is Russian for mud season. While we admire their grit, we are choosing to enjoy these quiet and incredible roads in near perfect conditions in the warmth of Summer. If you are up for the avid route today, you'll have the added bonus of pedaling past Lake Willoughby. It's hard to decide which epic route to take today, however your guides will give you insight on the best fit for you. Post ride, you will enjoy a well-earned lunch back at the hotel. The day concludes with a delectable dinner and cheers to new friends and an epic gravel adventure, Trek Travel style. Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Lake Willoughby

Lake Willoughby

Explore the Northeast Kingdom and savor the views as you pedal along the shore of Lake Willoughby

East Burke to Newark Hollow Loop - Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 3,150 ft | 960 m

East Burke to Newark Hollow Loop with Newark St Cutoff - Approximately 21 mi | 34 km and 2,150 ft | 655 m

East Burke to Lake Willoughby Loop - Approximately 42 mi | 68 km and 4,500 ft | 1,372 m

Day 5 Farewell ride under the shadow of Burke Mountain

Farewell ride under the shadow of Burke Mountain

It's sadly time to say goodbye to Vermont's unpaved roads. Your final ride is a short but hilly loop under the shadow of Burke Mountain. Of course, if you’d rather sleep in and enjoy a leisurely morning, that's also an option. At 11:00 AM, your guides will chauffeur you back to Burlington. You’ll say farewell at the Burlington Airport at 1:00 PM or the Hilton shortly thereafter. Please do not schedule a flight before 3:00 PM on the last day of the trip to allow ... It's sadly time to say goodbye to Vermont's unpaved roads. Your final ride is a short but hilly loop under the shadow of Burke Mountain. Of course, if you’d rather sleep in and enjoy a leisurely morning, that's also an option. At 11:00 AM, your guides will chauffeur you back to Burlington. You’ll say farewell at the Burlington Airport at 1:00 PM or the Hilton shortly thereafter. Please do not schedule a flight before 3:00 PM on the last day of the trip to allow plenty of time for any unforeseen delays. Read More

Farewell East Burke

Farewell East Burke

Enjoy a final ride along the base of Burke Mountain and keep your eyes peeled for black bears

East Burke to East Lyndon Loop - Approximately 14 mi | 23 km and 1,550 ft | 472 m

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Rider Information

Rider Level: 3

Terrain: Hilly

The unpaved surfaces on our Vermont Gravel bike tour are rated as Intermediate. About 70% of the riding is unpaved. You can expect gravel roads that are primarily smooth dirt roads with small, sparse gravel. At times, there will be short sections of rougher road that may have deep or chunky gravel, potholes, ruts, or washboard like surfaces. We even managed to find a couple of short segments of singletrack! This trip takes place between the Vermont's Green Mountains and the Northeast Kingdom. The ride distances are relatively short because the terrain is hilly. You will tackle short, steep hills throughout the trip. Once on gravel roads, expect minimal traffic and little access to services as you will be traversing rural areas. Your guides will be able to drive most of the roads with the support van. Our Vermont Gravel Bike Tour is best suited for Type 3 Riders who have experience riding gravel roads and are accustomed to hilly terrain. Type 2 riders who are comfortable riding gravel but are looking for less mileage can ride the short options and utilize the shuttles as indicated. Type 4 Riders will enjoy the extra mileage and climbs the avid route options offer. If you have gravel experience but are concerned about your physical ability to conquer the mileage and elevation, you may want to try our Domane+ electric-assist bike option.

Daily Average

24 miles | 39 kilometers

118 miles | 190 kilometers

2,345 feet | 715 meters

11,725 feet | 3,574 meters

This destination is best suited to guests who want to cycle every day. Because of the terrain and/or remoteness of the hotels and riding routes, there are few, if any, non-riding options available. If a non-rider wants to accompany a rider guest on this trip, they would need to spend many hours in the van and/or at the hotels on the trip. Due to this, we strongly discourage non-riders from this destination. As an alternative, call a Trek Travel Trip Consultant at 866-464-8735 for trip suggestions where more non-rider activities are available, such as:

Vermont Bike Tour

  • Bentonville Gravel
  • Shenandoah Valley Gravel
  • Asheville to Brevard

non rider

Looking for a break from traffic and the usual routes? Our gravel rides are the perfect escape! While the amount of pavement varies from destination to destination, you can count on minimal traffic once you hit the dirt. And since you'll be off the beaten path, you may encounter fewer services - that's where our guides come in handy. They'll make sure you have everything you need, whether it's a flat tire fix or a local recommendation for the best post-ride treat. And with support from our team available on and off the bike, you'll have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable ride - even through some of the bumps on the trail.

  • Fully guided and supported with two guides and one van minimum
  • Daily route options on a pre-loaded Garmin GPS
  • Additional guides and vehicles added dependent upon guest count and trip logistics

A group of people getting fit for bikes in Glacier National Park

Situated in the center of the village of Stowe, the Green Mountain Inn has a rich and interesting history. The property, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been welcoming guests (including former U.S. Presidents) since the mid-1800s, when it served as a stagecoach stop, and has operated under its current name for 122 years. Over the generations, the Inn has been transformed into the beautiful property that it is today through upgrades designed to retain and blend the Inn’s historic charm and traditional feel with the very best amenities and comfortable accommodations.

trek travel vermont gravel

Mountain View Farm is a historic landmark in the Darling Hill District of Vermont.  This 400-acre farm dates back to 1883 and has been owned by the Pastore’s since 1989. They have converted the farmhouse and creamery into an exquisite Inn and curated a welcoming and one of a kind experience for their guests. You’ll stay in a bright and comfortable room and be treated to beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. A bountiful breakfast will be served each morning featuring produce from the garden, and you can enjoy s’mores around a bonfire in the evening. You’ll also notice the Inn is home to rescued farm animals including several horses, and the property is laced with mountain bike, hiking and cross country ski trails. ...

Bikes & Gear

Trek Checkpoint SLR 7 Gravel bike

Take on the challenge of gravel with the knowledge that you are riding the best gravel bike in the business. With a high performance frame designed to be nimble yet stable, and the smoothing effect of rear IsoSpeed technology, it will let you ride with ease on any type of surface. The rugged drivetrain allows you to enjoy smooth and reliable shifting no matter the terrain. It also features Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for predictable and safe stopping power wherever you go. The 45mm tubeless gravel tires will give you confidence to tackle any bump in the road. If you want to escape the concrete, and adventure unpaved, let this bike take you there.

Trek Domane+ SLR bike

Take the tailwind with you and leave your limits behind on the Domane+ SLR 7. With a groundbreaking ratio of ultra-lightweight design and electric assist, the Domane+ has everything you love in a road bike, with the extra boost to take you farther than ever before. This performance e-road bike will assist you on the climbs and enable you to venture further on your cycling vacation. So go ahead—take the long way. With Domane+ SLR 7, there’s always room for more distance, more speed, and more fun! Upgrade to the Domane+ SLR 7 on this trip for $399 (3-6 day trips) or $599 (7+ day trips). Available in limited quantities. See trip dates for details.

Two cyclist and one rider

Trek Travel Guides

The World’s Best

From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.

Additional Gear

  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Cinch sack day bag to keep
  • Bontrager saddle
  • Bontrager helmet
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer with pre-loaded routes
  • Shimano SPD mountain style pedals
  • A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator
  • For the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and our guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

A collage of cycling gear guests will use on a Trek Travel Ride Camp, Discover, or Self-Guided Bike Tour.

Trip Inclusions

  • Four nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
  • Experienced guides to provide local knowledge, support, and camaraderie
  • Daily route support with both guides and our support van
  • Daily breakfast, three lunches, and two dinners
  • Ride With GPS Experience for your phone with daily itinerary and route navigation information

  • Up to three daily route options on riding days
  • Snacks and drinks for each day's ride
  • Entrance fees for all activities, private tours and events
  • All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip
  • A digital photo album of your trip

A group of people smiling for a camera in Girona Spain

  • Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Personal items purchased during the trip
  • Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
  • On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.
  • While Trek Travel jersey's are not included on our Discover bike tours, they are available for purchase. Visit our Trek Travel Online Shop to see your options.

Guide Gratuities

Guide gratuities are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Discover Gravel trip, we recommend $150-$200 per guest. While local currency is preferred, there are other options to make tipping easier. Most guides accept gratuity via PayPal or Venmo or our staff can help before or after the trip. Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

Additional Details

Know Before You Go!

We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.

Your Trip Need to Knows:

  • Getting off the beaten path means there may be limited services during gravel rides. There may not be traditional restrooms available on some routes, but there will be plenty of trees.
  • Hills in Vermont are short and steep. If daily stints of 15% grades are not in your wheelhouse, consider opting for one of our Domane+ electric bikes!

Before and After Your Trip

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is a vibrant and beautiful college town on Lake Champlain, with a great variety of leisure and outdoor adventure activities at your fingertips. Not to be missed are the shopping and dining opportunities along Church Street, Burlington’s pedestrian mall. Rent a kayak or sailboat and set out to enjoy Lake Champlain from Burlington Harbor. Visit the Shelburne Museum, one of the finest museums in New England, highlighting the history and the culture of the region, or maybe stop by the Magic Hat Brewery and sample one of their many exceptional seasonal brews. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel:

trek travel vermont gravel

Where to Stay

Hotel Vermont

Hotel Vermont is a distinctive, stylish, and ideally located property which prides itself on offering “room to yourself and space to be inspired.” Drawing inspiration from the culture and natural beauty of Vermont, the hotel is an excellent place to refresh and relax during a fall getaway! With in-house yoga classes and complimentary 2-hour bike rentals, whether you want to stay in or venture forth—Hotel Vermont has it all! www.hotelvt.com/

Courtyard by Marriott Burlington Harbor

The Courtyard by Marriott Burlington Harbor is conveniently located just a few short steps away from Lake Champlain, Burlington Town Center, and the Church Street Marketplace. It has spacious, well-designed guest rooms, hot buffet breakfast, indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness facility, high-speed internet, flat screen HD TVs, and a business center. www.marriott.com

Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain

The largest hotel in downtown Burlington, this elegant property is located right on the lakefront and pedestrian path. Amenities are extensive and include a workout room, swimming pool, and business facilities. www.hilton.com

Average monthly temperature and precipitation

Packing and Weather

In July, the average high temperature in Stowe is 66F (19C), while in East Burke, it is 79F (26C). While this sounds mild, it is not unusual for temps to climb into the high 80s (31C). The average low temperature is 52F (11C), making for comfortable evenings and mornings. A light jacket for evenings, layers for unexpected chilly mornings, sun protection clothing, and a raincoat are always recommended. Be sure to check the forecast in the days prior to your departure, and always bring your rain gear, just in case. View our Packing List

Ready to book?

To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.

*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.

**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.

What happens once I book?

When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.

Guaranteed to run

With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*

In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:

Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.

Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.

Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Bike trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.

The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.

*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.

Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.

What if I have to cancel my trip?

We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.

Read our Cancellation Policy

Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.

Travel Protection

Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection

Travel Services

We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services

Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments

Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Discover Gravel trip, we recommend $150-$200 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.

Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:

Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.

Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

You cannot put a price on a wow . But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.

General Gravel FAQs

Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See Gravel FAQs

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Guaranteed trips.

Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip.  Click here to view our full guarantee policy .

Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.

Sold Out/Waitlist

This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.

If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.

Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more .

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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  • Vermont Sports 2024 March-April Issue
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  • How to Save Our Lakes – An Expert Weighs In
  • Vermont Sports 2024 -1 Jan./Feb. Issue
  • Mischa Tourin: The Climbing Advocate

Vermont Sports Magazine

Pro Picks: Vermont’s 12 Best Gravel Rides  

With swimming holes to stop at, blueberries to pick, and bakeries and brewpubs to sample, these backyard loops—as picked by gravel pros— are the best ways to see Vermont.

Sure, you might think you know Vermont’s gravel. Perhaps you’ve ridden some of the better-known organized rides. But how much have you really explored the state? We asked gravel cycling experts around the Green Mountains, south to north, to share their favorite recreational (read: accessible) gravel rides in 20- to 40-mile loops.

trek travel vermont gravel

The result are some stunning rides where you can camp out on the shores of Lake Champlain, pick blueberries, plunge into a river from a rope swing, cast a fly-rod, ride a rail trail, swim in the lake where Jacques Cousteau did his first dives, visit Robert Frost’s grave and treat yourself to sweeping views of the rural Vermont that pavement seems to have missed.

Download the map links, pack your saddlebag and plan your staycation.

1. BENNINGTON: HOLSTEINS, HISTORY AND ROBERT FROST — by Joe Cruz

trek travel vermont gravel

The pro: Few people know bikepacking like Joe Cruz. Cruz, who commutes from his home in Pownal by bike to Williams College just across the Massachusetts border to teach philosophy is one of the most knowledgeable bikepackers in the country and a contributor to bikepacking.com . He’s the mastermind who mapped Ted King’s epic VTXL gravel ride from one corner of Vermont to the next. He’s also a less concerned with speed than with scenery.

The ride: This loop is everything Vermont: wooded corridors of green that turn incredible colors in autumn, working farms with Holsteins and soaring silos, rolling open valleys, and narrow roads lined by stone walls running alongside burbling brooks. It’s all easily rideable—no Class 4 sections on this one—but be ready for lots of Vermont- style climbing! Park at the Bennington Monument commemorating the pivotal Revolutionary War battle of 1777. From there, it is not long to the first gravel sections and a beautiful ascent along the shoulder of Mt. Anthony.

Once over the pass, hold on for a grinning descent into the town of Pownal where you’ll link up to a fast section of Route 346 before tackling the second major climb of the day on Ladd Brook Road. At the top of Ladd Brook, you’ll be on a pleasant network of woodsy rural roads with signs of sugaring operations and the occasional small farm.

The landscape opens up again on the rolling dirt of Middle Pownal Road on the way back to Bennington. The route finishes on quieter Bennington side streets but it is easy to detour a block or two north to the main commercial thoroughfare for a bite to eat or a pint. There’s one last modest climb before you arrive back at the Monument. Poetry buffs should set aside time to take a short well-signed walk through the cemetery at the Old First Church (mile 23.3) to visit Robert Frost’s grave.

The swimming hole: At mile 5.4, instead of turning left as the route indicates, go straight to stay on Fowler’s Way approximately .3 miles. There’s a small parking area on the left and a path into the woods. Follow it for a few minutes for a cooling dip.

The bike shop: Pop over the Mass. border to The Spoke in Williamstown where Heidi, Paul and Damien can fix anything.

The brew pub: The Madison Brewing Co. (at mile 22.1 stay on Route 7 to the intersection with Route 9 less than .1 mile, turn right, Madison on left).

Refuel here: Pizza at Ramunto’s in Bennington.

Map it: strava.com/routes/2717771383132915372 

2. SLATE VALLEY: RAIL TRAILS AND PAVE — by Caitrin Maloney & Hardy Avery

trek travel vermont gravel

The pros: Caitrin, 43, and Hardy, 45, are the duo behind Sustainable Trailworks, the company that has built many of the now-classic mountain bike trails around Vermont. They recently moved from Lamoille County to a farm near Poultney, in southwestern Vermont, where they have been helping Slate Valley Trails create and map mountain bike and gravel trails. Caitrin and Hardy were among the top male and female finishers in last fall’s Gorey Hollows Race hosted by Analog Cycles. The race featured a brutal 80- mile, 13,000-feet of vertical, course.

The ride: This 29-mile “Adventure” gravel ride has a little bit of everything: quiet gravel roads, lots of hills, a couple of rough and tumble Class 4 “pavé” sections, expansive views (including of distinctive Bird Mountain), and a nice mellow cruise home on the D&H rail trail. This ride follows Ames Hollow Road through the Bird Mountain Wildlife Management area, which adds challenge and an awesome sense of adventure to the ride.

Got fatter tires? This would be a good time to use ‘em! The ride begins and ends in the historic Poultney downtown. Make sure to stop at Tap’s Tavern after the ride for great local fare and craft bevies.

The swimming hole: Look for dirt pull-off on the side of the road on Route 140 east of Poultney – there are numerous great spots to take a refreshing dip in the Poultney river. Or stop at Lake St. Catherine State Park, just south of town on Route 30.

The bike shop: Analog Cycles is a must. This unique, off-the-grid shop is located in an old sugarhouse at 181 Hillside Drive in East Poultney. Analog specializes in rad custom gravel bikes, custom bike fitting and also offers a range of cool bike bags and accessories.

The brew pub: Taps Tavern has an awesome local burger and craft beer selection. And your meal will be served on pottery that’s handmade by a local artist.

Refuel here: Stop by the East Poultney General Store for snacks on your way to a swim off Route 140. This quintessential general store is stocked with the expected and the unexpected, and in the summer months features a farm stand out front.

Map it: :  https://www.strava.com/ routes/2721441721310103728  

3. WOODSTOCK: ROPE SWINGS AND COVERED BRIDGES — by Ansel Dickey

trek travel vermont gravel

The pro: Ansel Dickey, 25, has been racking up podium finishes since he was a junior racer at Killington Mountain School and did his first pro season as a Cat 1 racer in 2013. Now the owner of Vermont Social, he’s followed Ted King and many of the other top gravel riders as a photographer and videographer.

The ride: It’s crazy that riding “this good” exists for most Vermonters right out their back door. I love this route because I step out my door in Woodstock and in under 40 miles, I’ll pass through four village centers, go by four Vermont general stores, go through a covered bridge, pass a rope swing, and almost never touch pavement.

The swimming hole: On Old River Road in Taftsville/Woodstock you’ll find the rope swing that launches you into the Ottaquechee. It’s not the biggest rope swing, and it can be a tad shallow, but it’s great on a hot day if there’s not too many people about.

The bike shop: Drummond Cycles, of course.

The brewpub: Stop at the Brownsville Butcher and Pantry for a to-die for fried chicken sandwich, great local beer on tap from Trout River, Harpoon, Long Trail and many other nearby breweries.

Refuel here: The South Woodstock General Store and Mon Vert Cafe in Woodstock are two of my favorites!

Map it: https://www.strava.com/routes/2719207236671176494

4. RANDOLPH: BRAINTREE’S 5 CLIMBS — by Zac Freeman

The pro: Zac Freeman and Angus McCusker have been the force behind the Rochester/Randolph Sports Trails Alliance. The duo have helped to cut and map backcountry ski trails in Brandon Gap and are about to release a map of gravel rides in the Rochester/ Randolph area. Many routes start from The Hub, which features maps and trail information and is housed in the same building as Randolph’s new Gear House.

The ride: The Braintree 5 is an unforgettable 35-mile ride with 5,000 feet of climbing on some of central Vermont’s finest dirt roads. This ridge line route has you zigzag picturesque Braintree Hill with views reaching New Hampshire’s White Mountains. You can rest at the historic Braintree Meeting House, dunk your head in Thresher Brook and take in the beauty of rural Vermont. If you ride it in peak foliage it’s breathtaking. Start and finish at The Gear House.

The swimming hole: Plunge into the river under the footbridge at the Randolph Rec field.

The bike shop: The Gear House in downtown Randolph and RASTA Trail Hub.

The brewpub : Bent Hill Brewery (you pass it on the ride.)

Refuel here : There’s nothing on the ride, but The Black Krim Tavern in Randolph is a must.

Map it : strava.com/routes/10660797

5. NORWICH: HILLS AND HIDDEN HAMLETS – by Daniel Jordan

The pro: One of the founders of Vermont Bikepackers and the leader behind this year’s Super 8 Grand Depart, Daniel Jordan, 32, has ridden many of Vermont’s quite backroads and in 2015 did the VT50 (mountain bike race) on a road bike. Now based in Burlington, he recalls his favorite routes from his time spent working in Norwich.

The ride: I used to work at a small bike shop in Norwich, and this became a favorite route of mine. It’s only 21 miles, but don’t be fooled; there is 2,700 ft elevation gain and some very rugged terrain along Class 4 town highways.

The route starts with smooth dirt on the local classics: Bragg Hill, Chapel Hill, and Tigertown. Then suddenly, you take a sharp left to climb Sue Spalding Road. The road surface becomes rugged as you access the deep woods. You may have to walk, but don’t worry, the climb doesn’t last for long. As you start to descend, there are a few trails in there, so make sure you are trending to the south and west and you’ll be fine.

As you descend wild and woolly Po Dunk Road.=, keep your eye out for the Appalachian Trail as you should cross over it twice. After the long descents, you’ll climb up pavement to the Jericho Rural Historic District, a hidden hamlet with beautiful rolling farmland. The road turns to gravel near the top, and then it’s all downhill back to Norwich.

The bike shop: Cowbell Mobile Bike Shop is based in the area. Mason Racing in Lebanon is great, and the legendary Drummond Cycles is also nearby.

The brewpub: Right in Norwich, get a beer at the Brewery at the Norwich Inn, home of Jasper Murdock Ales. Their highlight is English style cask ales.

Refuel here: The route takes you up into the hills where there’s not much in the way of stops. Before you set out, you can load up on snacks and sandwiches at Dan & Whit’s in Norwich, or you could start with a coffee and pastry fuel-up at King Arthur Flour.

Map it: ridewithgps.com/routes/33555875

6. TUNBRIDGE: BIG VIEWS & SWIMMING HOLES — Alex Buskey

The pro: Alex Buskey, 29, founded The Ranger gravel ride as an innovative approach to land conservation, social equity, and sustainability. He’s ridden in nearly every corner of Vermont but calls Tunbridge home, in part for rides like this.

The ride: One of my all-time favorites ride is, of course, in Tunbridge. Swing in to First Branch Coffee for a pre-ride buzz and tasty treat before departing SoRo (South Royalton). I prefer to ride this route at a cruise pace to make it an all-day ride. I might even pack a collapsible fly rod to take a few casts in the First Branch of the White River below the Larkin Road Bridge while I dry off from a quick mid-ride swim.

You really feel like you are out there when you reach Quarry Road. There’s a beautiful pond with a lookout to your left as the road begins to flatten out. At this point you’ll be ready for that mid-ride swim. Look back behind you at the view over the Tunbridge Hill Organic Farm as you begin to reach the high point of Monarch Hill Road. Cruise along Kelsey Mountain Road with views to the west of Randolph.

It’s not called Kelsey Mountain for nothing. There’s a kicker of a climb hidden at the end of this one. Descend back down into the valley via Falls Hill Road onto one of Tunbridge’s most photographed riding spots, Howe Lane. Get a photo of the famous Howe Farm. If you head north (left) on Route 110 towards the Tunbridge Fairgrounds, there are a couple of good swimming holes along this section of the First Branch up until the Cilley Bridge. You’ll then spin back to town along Route 110. There is one more swim spot along the White River after you cross the bridge on your right, before the Vermont Law School and SoRo village. You’ll see a small parking lot close to the water with a beach and some ledge. You’ll likely be ready for some food by now. I’d recommend the Worthy Burger or First Branch/Upper Pass Beer Co.

The swimming hole: The hole below the Larkin Bridge in Tunbridge is the perfect cool down spot.

The bike shop: There isn’t a bike shop in South Royalton yet, but the Gear House in Randolph, and Green Mountain Bikes in Rochester are both trusty shops with unique atmospheres.

The brewpub: Upper Pass Beer Company and Worthy Burger are both great spots in South Royalton. The Upper Pass tasting room is located in First Branch Coffee.

Refuel here: The nice thing about this loop is that once you are out there, there’s really not much around you. Grab to-go snacks at the SoRo Coop before heading out (don’t forget to bring your reusable containers or wraps).

Map it: strava.com/ routes/2718328803651856044

7. BUTTON BAY: BOVINES & BATTLE GROUNDS /ADDISON COUNTY — Kris Dennan

trek travel vermont gravel

The pro: As the owner and leader of the touring company, Gravel Tours, Kris Dennan, 46, has explored most of Vermont by bike, including doing the 300-mile VTXL (see story on page 8) in 23 hours of saddle time. Though he’s based in Manchester, one of his favorite rides is along the shores of Lake Champlain near where his grandfather had a camp.

The ride: Start at Button Bay State Park (camp out the night before if you can) and roll south along Lake Champlain on quiet farm roads, with views of the Green Mountains to the east and west to the High Peaks of the Adirondacks. You’ll pass by working dairy farms on roads built by the British military that connected old Fort No. 4 in Charleston, N.H. to Fort Ticonderoga and Fort Henry in New York during the battles for Independence in the 1700s.

Ride across the Crown Point Bridge and tour Fort Henry and swim in the lake. The terrain is rolling with some short, punchy climbs and offers up a nice mix of gravel and quiet, paved farm roads

Crossing Route 7 you’ll climb slightly, just to the base of Snake Mountain and head north, passing the hiking trailhead to the summit where a resort once stood upon the cliffs, overlooking the lake. The roads leading into Vergennes are a bit more undulating, building your appetite for some good local food and drink, of which there are plenty of choices in town.

The swimming hole: You’ll have plenty of options as you ride along Lake Champlain.

The bike shop: Frog Hollow in Middlebury.

The brewpub: Hired Hand in Vergennes.

Refuel here: The Bridge Restaurant at the Crown Point Bridge.

8. RICHMOND: BLUEBERRY PICKING AND GORGES — Chelsea Camarata

trek travel vermont gravel

The pro: It doesn’t take much to get Chelsea Camarata out riding dirt or gravel. As the founder of Kaden Apparel, the mountain bike apparel company for women, Chelsea is constantly out testing product, often with her partner, photographer Ryan Bent.

The ride: This 19(ish) mile loop starts at the Round Church in Richmond and goes along the Cross VT Trail toward Huntington and finally loops back to Richmond with an incredible downhill that will make all the climbing worth it.

You will find yourself surrounded by beautiful farm fields, some classic Vermont barns, and quiet dirt roads. We think this is a perfect climbing to downhill ratio for anyone looking for a quick before/after work ride or just getting into riding gravel. Spin it quickly or take your time and stop at Owl Head Farm for pick-your-own blueberries, have a picnic at Gillett Pond, or ride the River Trail by Cochran’s Ski Area. Feeling like a longer route? Try riding from Burlington via Governor Chittenden Roadfor a total of 45 miles.

The swimming hole: Huntington Gorge, Bolton Potholes or Winooski River.

The bike shop: Hitchhiker Mobile Bike Shop – They’ll come to you!

The brewpub: Stone Corral Brewery in Richmond

Refuel here: Stop at Sweet Simone’s in Richmond for granola bars for on the go, coffee cake to die for and breakfast sandwiches made with buttermilk biscuits, a fried egg, and Cabot cheddar.

Map it: 19 mile: strava.app.link/ qimnhutX77

45 mile: strava. app.link/89lwN8BX77

9. STOWE: SWEET GRAVEL & GREAT BREWS – Ted and Laura King

The pros: As if being the two-time winner of Dirty Kanza and podium finisher at a host of other gravel races didn’t earn him the title of Gravel King, Ted and his equally speedy gravel-riding wife Laura founded Rooted Vermont, now a gravel classic as well, when they moved to Richmond two years ago. A Middlebury grad, King has been riding Vermont’s dirt roads for decades.

The ride: It’s not my backyard, but it’s worth the trip to Stowe to make it happen. The Saturday morning ‘Stowe Gravel Worlds’ route is a weekly group ride from late spring through early fall that features mostly buff, sweet gravel roads for which Vermont is well known, but still a few brief Class 4 sections to keep you on your toes, plus plenty of room for detours and derivations from the route to really mix it up.

Hilly to keep you honest, but short enough to be home by late morning. You’ll already be buzzing when you wrap up the ride, but this route finishes at PK Coffee to continue that morning buzz.

The swimming hole: If you’re baking hot, you could take a dip in the West Branch.

The bike shop: Ranch Camp has you covered.

The brewpub: The Alchemist is almost too easy an answer. Idletyme is across the street from PK Coffee.

Refuel here: Start (or finish) with a strong brew and pastry at PK Coffee. Ranch Camp will help replenish what you’ve lost along the way when your morning coffee and pastry have worn off.

Map it: strava. com/routes/29080003

trek travel vermont gravel

10. PEACHAM: DAIRY FARMS AND CREEMEES — By Ian Boswell

The pro: One of the reasons former Tour de France pro rider Ian Boswell, 29, moved from Nice, France to Peacham, Vermont was for the vast network of quiet back roads he could train on. While the Peacham Fall Fondo (the gravel grinder he and his wife Gretchen began putting on two years ago) has been canceled for 2020, you can still ride some of their favorite gravel routes.

The ride: This is a quintessential 29- mile route starting and ending in the center of Peacham at the Peacham Cafe. You will take in the rolling hills of the Northeast Kingdom (gorgeous in any season!) and have sweeping views of the White Mountains. You will pass active dairy farms including the Kempton Farm, which produces the milk for my favorite cheese: Cabot Clothbound Cheddar by Jasper Hill Farm. While this is a beautiful loop, it is challenging, with over 4,000 feet of climbing in just under 30 miles.

The swimming hole: After your ride and a maple creemee at West Barnet Quick Stop, jump in Harvey’s Lake — the site of Jacques Cousteau’s first dive while he was at camp near there as a boy — at the free public beach.

The bike shops: Bring your tools! The closest bike shops would be Village Sport Shop in Lyndonville or Onion River Outdoors in Montpelier.

The brewpub: Red Barn Brewing just expanded to open up a sweet new location in Danville; beer of choice: Little Devil.

Refuel here: The community-owned Peacham Cafe is a great spot for a bite before or after the ride, and you should pick up some amazing Artesano ice cream in the freezer there. There are many other local products for sale, and Crystal and Shannon are always cooking up fresh pastries. Check out the “most photographed church in Vermont” at the Peacham Congregational Church just up the road from the café.

Map it: strava.com/routes/2719935448112476256

11. NORTHEAST KINGDOM: THE LAKE LOOP — by Heidi Myers

trek travel vermont gravel

The pro: Heidi Myers (along with Antony LaMoccia) is the force behind Rasputitsa, the epic gravel ride that has become the largest group ride in Vermont. A former marketing director at Louis Garneau (and now teaching at Sterling College), she’s helped make the Northeast Kingdom a gravel riding destination for folks from all over the country.

The ride: This 36-miler starts in Brownington at the majestic Old Stone House Museum and passes some of Vermont’s most scenic lakes. Built by Alexander Twilight, the nation’s first African American college graduate (Middlebury, 1823), the Old Stone House once served as a dormitory for Orleans County Grammar School. From this spot, you have a seven- mile, mostly-gravel pedal to the fjord- like Lake Willoughby, swim spot #1. From there, climb Penne Hill to explore what locals refer to as “the other side” of the lake. Circle Valley Mountain and connect with Route 16 at the Rainbow Farm which is an old farm with a rainbow faintly painted on it.

Route 16, though paved, is still void of heavy traffic. You pass the entrance of Crystal Lake for potential swim spot #2. Continuing on Route 16 takes you by Red Sky Trading, home to the best donuts in the state of Vermont. A quick pedal on Bean Hill brings you out in West Glover where Parker Pie sits humbly and makes for the perfect beer stop. A back road ride from there leaves you in Irasburg, former home of the deceased author, Howard Frank Mosher. Connect back to the Old Stone House via Orleans and pass Willoughby Falls, a fly fisherman’s paradise and where you might find trout jumping and spawning in the spring.

The swimming holes: Lake Willoughby, Crystal Lake, Willoughby Falls.

The bike shop: Nothing close, but the Hub Trailside in East Burke is my personal favorite.

The brewpub: Parker Pie serving up Hill Farmstead.

Refuel here: Donuts at Red Sky Trading.

Map it: strava.com/routes/2717819003611630786

12. MONTGOMERY: COVERED BRIDGES, HAUNTED HOLLOWS — by Daniel Jackson

The pro: An avid bikepacker and gravel route explorer, Daniel Jackson of Montgomery designed the gnarly gravel Fall Classic 200k route for New England Randonneurs and fancies himself the RouteMaster of Velo Vermont. As he says, “The chunkier the better, but I also love a fresh grade. “

The ride: This is a northern Vermont gravel ride along the shoulder of the Green Mountains. You’re on 90 percent dirt and climb over 100 feet per mile. The dirt is loose and often rutted, unless you catch the pass over Enosburg Mountain just after a fresh grade.

You’ll climb through Deep Gibou (an area some say is haunted) and cross the Cold Hollow Mountains where unmaintained Class 4 roads, covered bridges, and Highlander cattle predominate.

Montgomery boasts some of the best swimming holes in the state and the most covered bridges of any town. Stop at the Creamery Bridge swimming hole on the route and grab a drink in Montgomery after your ride.

The swimming hole: Local holes include: Hippie Hole, Three Holes, Creamery Bridge and others.

The bike shop: The Jay Cloud Cyclery and First Trax.

The brew pub: Check out The Inn, The Belfry, and The Snowshoe.

Refuel here: Bernie’s offers great Mexican on Monday and Thursday nights, and Donnie of First Trax makes stellar wood fired pizza. Sylvester’s General Store has everything you might need, nothing you don’t.

Map it: ridewithgps. com/routes/10253947

  • ← Lessons In Perseverance
  • Ode to the Perpetual Amateur →

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trek travel vermont gravel

Stupid Pain, Plenty of Gain

We started thinking about mountain biking, 3 thoughts on “ pro picks: vermont’s 12 best gravel rides   ”.

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I think the Stowe ride travels some private roads that say they are off limits to cyclists. Specifically in Robinson Springs.

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Vermont gravel traverse bike tour.

Vermont Gravel Traverse bike on bridge

Trip Overview

SALE! Save $300! Only $2,495.

The Vermont Gravel Traverse is a predominantly off-road route that traces a diagonal through the state of Vermont, from Canaan in the far northeast to Pownal in the far southwest. The route is modeled closely after the VTXL , which was inspired by ProTour rider Ted King and designed by Joe Cruz of bikepacking.com . At more than 340 miles in length (35+ miles longer than the VTXL), the Vermont Gravel Traverse has an impressive 33,500 of elevation gain — that’s an average of more than 4,800 ft. of climbing each day. The route travels along primarily smooth dirt and gravel roads … though there are a few sections of unmaintained Class IV roads that require an occasional hike-a-bike, even for the most technical cyclists.

This is a fantastic tour for those who appreciate remote landscapes, lots of climbing, lots of grin-inducing descents, and a comfy bed each night. Along the way, there are plenty of farmhouses, quaint general stores, swimming holes, and covered bridges to make you fall in love with the Green Mountain State.

Read more about our Adventure Tours

From start to finish, check out the route.

Dates & pricing, prices are per person based on double occupancy (2 people in one room). single supplement for private room is listed at the top of this page. a deposit of $500 holds your reservation for most tours. for weekend tours, the deposit is $300., what’s included.

7 nights’ lodging on the route (all indoors); 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners (you are on your own for 5 lunches and 3 dinners); prepackaged snacks to take along on the ride; two leaders; gear portage; van support for emergencies; and detailed Ride with GPS route directions. Airfare and bike are not included. WHAT TO BRING: You will need to supply your own bicycle. A gravel, cross, mountain, or touring bike will suffice, though we recommend a minimum tire size of 47mm (1.85”). If you need to rent a bicycle, contact Discovery Bicycle Tours for more information, availability and rental fee. You should carry your own pump, spares, and patch kit. Also have room on your bike to carry a lunch, snacks, water, and various clothing layers. You should be proficient in basic bike maintenance, including fixing flats and cleaning/oiling chains. There are bike shops along the route that can assist with more complex repairs, if necessary.

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Mailing Address: PO Box 700, Woodstock, VT 05091 Address: 2520 W. Woodstock Rd., Woodstock, VT 05091 (800) 257-2226 | [email protected]

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SLATE VALLEY TRAILS GRAVEL RIDE NETWORK

About the svt gravel ride network (grn).

The Slate Valley Trails Gravel Ride Network is a series of different length loops on roads that explore the different areas and terrain of the Slate Valley. We know how much you love Vermont gravel! SVT has mapped 16 different routes out of the village of Poultney, Vermont in the heart of the Slate Valley.

The Slate Valley contains a mixture of gravel roads, paved roads, rough class 4 roads and the D&H Rail Trail, offering some very good cycling and gravel riding in Vermont and eastern New York. The area features quiet roads, charming villages, friendly people, valley roads and trails, mountain roads with good climbs, little traffic and scenic views.    

Ride Start  

All rides begin at the D&H Trail kiosk at the intersection of Church and Knapp streets in Poultney.  To reach the kiosk from Main Street, turn north on Depot Street from Main Street and then east (right) on Church Street until you come to the D&H Trail.  If you are travelling to Poultney south on Route 30, turn right (west) onto Church Street and travel until you reach the D&H Trail.  There are several places you can park.  

Route Terrain Ratings  

Each route is rated based on the average for this area, which is somewhat flatter than other places in Vermont and generally hillier than other areas in the northeast.  The routes with easier terrain generally stay in the valley and go north and south from Poultney.  The routes become progressively hillier as you go east into the Taconics.  As one person wrote on SVT’s Facebook page, “bring your climbing legs.”  

Technical Hardness Ratings  

All the routes use public roads or a rail-trail.  Nine of the 16 routes use gravel roads, paved roads and a rail trail that are generally smoothly surfaced and offer no technical difficulties.  Seven routes use sections of unmaintained 4th class roads that do present some technical difficulty and require the ability to ride bikes on rough terrain.

Maps and Map Files Each of the SVT Gravel Ride Network (GRN) rides described on this page has a map and a complete cue sheet in it’s description. Do you want KML or GPX Files? Thanks to TrailFinder.Info, you can get those files HERE.

Etiquette for Cyclist/Horse Interactions

Many gravel roads in the area are used by horses. Please follow these guidelines for the instances where you may encounter equestrians and their horses:

  • Horses have the right-of-way!
  • Horses can frighten easily. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises. 
  • Stop if needed, give space, and stay on the downhill side of any hills. Stay visible. 
  • Communicate with the rider by calmly announcing your presence and intentions. "Trail, please", or "on your left" are good cues.
  • Wait for permission to proceed. Allow them to move to the right, and pass  slowly with a minimum of one horse length or 10 feet.
  • Pond Hill Ranch: If biking by Pond Hill Ranch, and horseback riders are on the road or trying to cross, slow down, STOP, and let them go by. Riders may be taking a lesson and new to handling horses.
  • Please NO horses on singletrack or double track trails that SVT maintains . This is to prevent erosion.

Want KML or GPX Files

Thanks to TrailFinder.Info, you can get those by clicking the map above.

Gorhamtown Loop

North poultney loop.

 13.4 miles, Moderately Hilly 

8.2 miles, Moderately Hilly 

The Missing Link

 14.0 miles one way, Moderately Hilly 

Slate Alley

Hills and hollows.

 14.2 miles, Moderately Hilly 

14.4 miles, Moderately Hilly

Castleton Jaunt

15.5 miles, flat, pond hill views, middletown grinder.

 17.8 miles, Hilly 

Quarry Hill

 19.9 miles, Hilly  

 22.1 miles, Very Hilly 

Birdseye Views

Hills of hampton, sawmill climber, 22.4 miles, very hilly.

22.8 miles, Very Hilly 

24.5 miles, Hilly

Points south, around the mountains.

 30.7 miles, Hilly 

 33.7 miles, Very Hilly 

Climber's Delight

 39.6 miles, Very Hilly  

Stone Valley 50

 50.6 miles, Very Hilly 

13.4 miles, Moderately Hilly

This ride is a longer version of the North Poultney Loop and uses the first and last parts of it. 

As you leave the North Poultney Loop on Lewis Road just north of Ward Road, you ride past two of the oldest farms in the area. You continue to explore a valley to the east before climbing over some hills and enjoying a great descent to South Road in Castleton. You then return south on Lewis Road where you connect up with the D&H trail and return to Poultney.   

Gorhamtown Loop Cue Sheet

Gorhamtown Loop Map

8.2 miles, Moderately Hilly

This pleasant loop first visits East Poultney and its historic green before turning north through terrain with light hills. It then turns west to reach the D&H Trail in what remains of North Poultney. Turning left on the D& H trail for your return to Poultney, be sure to notice the old North Poultney cemetery that sits across Saltis road on a small hill.   

North Poultney Loop Cue Sheet

14.0 miles one way, Moderately Hilly

A quick study of the maps of the D&H Trail posted on any of the Vermont D&H kiosks shows a missing section in New York – the maintained Vermont trail ends two miles south of Poultney and then begins again in West Pawlet, 14 miles to the south. The trail does continue north from West Pawlet through Granville and Middle Granville, but this section is not shown on Vermont maps. 

This route shows you how to ride on quiet roads and the relatively new six mile section in New York to connect the Poultney and West Pawlet sections of the trail. There is still an inaccessible section of the trail between Poultney and Middle Granville that is not open due to landowner issues. 

On the New York section of the D&H Trail in Granville you will ride past the Slate Valley museum which is worth a visit. The museum has interesting displays of the history of the slate industry, the towns and its people. Upon leaving Granville to the south the trail once again becomes a lovely path through the woods with some good views of the surrounding hills and pastoral landscape. 

Missing Link Cue Sheet

The Missing Link on Ride With GPS

The Missing Link Map

14.2 miles, Moderately Hilly

Another very rich section of slate quarries lies north of Poultney along several scenic roads. 

This route starts on several sections of paved roads that are favorites of the local roadies. The route goes to one of the last, and certainly the most visible, quarry sticks, an old mechanism to lift large slate blocks out of the quarry pits. 

On this route you have a slate quarry on one side or the other for almost 3 miles. One of the quarries, on the right side of Evergreen road is a quarter of a mile in length. The road then runs east to Lewis Road and then to the D&H Trails for a flat and straight return to Poultney. 

Slate Alley Cue Sheet

Slate Alley Map

14.4 Miles, Moderately Hilly

On this route you meander the hills and hollows to the east and north of Poultney village.  The route visits East Poultney and then gradually ascends to the top of Watkins Hill road where it follows a stream downhill.  

On the descent you may want to take some time to look left into the gorge on your left with its nice waterfall.  On a warm day, this part of the ride will provide a bit of coolness as you enjoy the downhill run to the bottom.  

From here on it is an easier return over gentle rolling terrain to the D&H Trail and back to Poultney.    

Hills and Hollows Cue Sheet

Hills and Hollows on Ride with GPS

Hills and Hollows Map

The section of the D&H Trail between Poultney and Castleton is a favorite of local riders, runners and walkers.  The trail offers quiet pedaling with pastoral views and the coolness of several wooded areas on a hot summer’s day.  

You cycle through the campus of Castleton University and reach the trail’s end on the east end of Main Street in Castleton.  Stop for a snack and enjoy the many interesting architectural buildings that line both sides of the village’s wide main street.  

Continue the ride through the university via its main entrance and rejoin the trail for the return to Poultney.   

Castleton Jaunt Cue Sheet

Castleton Jaunt Map

17.8 miles, Hilly

This ride takes you to Pond Hill Ranch at the top of Pond Hill for one of the finest views in the area.  The ride begins on delightful rolling roads then gets hilly on the long climb up Pond Hill and Pond Hill Ranch roads.  

At the top it is worth going around to the west side of the rodeo stadium to take in the expansive westward view to the southern Adirondacks.  You then finish the ride on mostly downhill roads all the way back into Poultney.  

If you want some lively entertainment, come back for the rodeo which is held on Saturday nights from Memorial Day to Labor Day.   

Pond Hill Views Cue Sheet

Pond Hill Views Map

19.9 miles, Hilly

Quarry Hill is a long ridge in South Poultney and Wells that has some of the largest and richest active slate quarries in the Slate Valley. The highlight of this ride is a climb to the top of Quarry Hill that yields an expansive view of a large active quarry and good views to the southeast toward Haystack Mountain and the Three Sisters.  

You first ride south from Poultney on the Points South route to downtown Granville for a brief visit to New York.  From Granville you return to Vermont and turn north toward Poultney.  After climbing to the top of Hilltop Road you are rewarded with the scenic view.  You are then further rewarded by a good descent to Route 31 where you return to Poultney. 

Quarry Hill Cue Sheet

Quarry Hill Map

22.1 miles, Very Hilly

If you make it up the “wall” on Norton Road, you won’t complain about any of the other hills.   This ride will allow you to use the lowest of your low gears as you grind up the two long climbs.  

You do have the first six miles on paved roads to warm up before turning onto Norton Road.  You then begin to climb for almost a mile before reaching a very steep but short pitch to the top.  After you recover, you can relax and enjoy the downhill schuss into Middletown Springs.  The ride continues up the hills to the south of this lovely small hamlet with a long climb on Coy Hill Road.  

Once over a short section on the 4th class Mountain Road, you will have a long downhill run that descends 1,200 feet to Lake St Catherine.  This long downhill is a nice reward for all your hard work in the first half of the ride with a word of caution as you descend a rough and steep section of Lamb’s Hill road.  You then return on paved roads to Poultney. 

Middletown Grinder Cue Sheet

Middletown Grinder on Ride With GPS

Middletown Grinder Map

This route runs to the east and north through East Poultney village and along the west side of Bird Mountain, known locally as Birdseye Mountain.  It features two long climbs, both of which offer good views.  

The first climb includes a three mile section on Ames Hollow Road, a 4th class road that has a one mile section of very rough road, one of the toughest in the area.  When the rough road ends you are rewarded with a good view of Bird Mountain to the north and a great downhill run.  

The second climb to Pond Hill Ranch rewards you with expansive views to the west toward the southern Adirondacks.  The route then features a long downhill run to Route 140 where you return to Poultney. 

Birdseye Views Cue Sheet

Birdseye Views on Ride with GPS

Birdseye Views Map

22.8 miles, Very Hilly

This route features three good climbs:  Hilltop Road, Sawmill Hill Road and Dayton Hill Road.  As the route heads south, it features a great view from the top of Hilltop Road and then visits the village of Wells.  The Wells store is known for its muffins and baked goods.  Just be aware that if you stop for food in Wells, you will encounter the longest and hardest climb, Sawmill Hill Road, within a half mile of the store. 

Sawmill Climber Cue Sheet

Sawmill Climber Map

On this route you explore the hills in nearby New York State that are just west of Poultney village.  

Cycling south from Poultney you go through the hamlet of Raceville.  You then turn north and ride the highlight of the route, the climb up Quivey Hill Road with its one mile long rough 4th class section.  

After Quivey Hill Road the route continues north and offers constant hills before a long downhill run and the return to Vermont. 

Hills of Hampton Cue Sheet

Hills of Hampton Map

30.7 miles, Hilly

This route shares the first 14 miles with The Missing Link route to ride south from Poultney through Granville and the New York section of the D&H trail to the village of West Pawlet.  

From West Pawlet you leave the trail and turn north on scenic and hillier dirt roads.  You then cycle on paved roads on the south and east sides of Lake St Catherine before returning to Poultney. 

Points South Cue Sheet

Points South Map

Around the Mountains

33.7 miles, very hilly.

Ah, three 4th class roads, including the two toughest in the area as well as over 2,500 feet of climbing!  There are several long climbs and some very good views.  

The route runs east toward Middletown Springs and climbs “the wall” before turning north on unpaved North Road that becomes a very rough 4th class road before descending into West Rutland.  

The route turns west and then south as it climbs up to and over the rough section of Ames Hollow Road.  Once past the rough section enjoy the long descent into East Poultney and Poultney villages.  You have earned it! 

Around the Mountains Cue Sheet

Around the Mountains Map

39.6 miles, Very Hilly

The name says it all.  This long route features over 3,000 feet of climbing on four climbs, including one up Endless Brook and Lamb’s Hill roads which is over a thousand feet from the bottom near Lake St Catherine to the top.  

Another highlight is the climb above the village of Pawlet that culminates in a one mile section of medium difficulty 4th class road on Chett Clark Road.  If you decide to wimp out and not do the last climb up Hilltop Road, you can use the flatter finish used by the Points South route to return to Poultney.  

The ride features several good views (Tadmer Hill Road, Waites Hill Road, Rupert Mountain Road, Briar Hill Road and Hilltop Road) and visits two scenic villages, Pawlet and West Pawlet.

Climber's Delight Cue Sheet

Climber's Delight Map

50.6 miles, Very Hilly

The annual Stone Valley 50 gravel grinder race held every September uses this route with a slightly different start and finish in Poultney.  

There are five significant climbs and three 4th class roads, including the always tough Ames Hollow Road and Dayton Hill Road with its collection of mud puddles.  

A quick look at the map shows that Route 140 bisects the route into north and south sections.  If you have less time and energy, you can elect to ride either half.  Both are worthwhile and scenic rides. 

Stone Valley 50 Cue Sheet

Stone Valley 50  Gravel Grinder race

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VTXL Bikepacking Route

Contributed By

Joe Cruz - Pedaling in Place

Pedaling in Place

Photos by Donalrey Nieva and Joe Cruz

Vermont is rolling green hills in late spring and summer, and these lead into a superlative burst of color in autumn. It is valleys of open farmland with red silo monuments and grazing holstein cows, friendly quaint general stores, cold swimming holes, and hundred and fifty year old stone walls along the roadside. It is startlingly steep pitches of historical byways with little love for switchbacks and instead laconic direct ascents and quick drops parallel to streams. All of this—along with its enviable highest proportion of unpaved roads of any state in the USA—earns Vermont its reputation for incredible gravel riding.

The VTXL’s genesis is a text message I received from retired ProTour rider Ted King early in 2020. It was a simple question, namely whether I knew of a mostly dirt gravel route from the Canada border to the Massachusetts border. I confessed that I didn’t and we both signed off with shrugs and a lament, but it got me thinking enough to spend several days working on a very rough draft. I thought it would be fun if the route was a diagonal, the longest span to cover. We kept in touch as we tapped local contacts in various parts of the state for advice, and the project eventually blossomed into Ted’s ambition to ride the whole thing in one continuous effort to honor the fact that he’d had to cancel his scheduled travel to national gravel events. We knew this ride would be an apt substitute right in our home state. He rode it in under 23 hours through uneven weather but also showered with cheers from Vermonters on the roadside celebrating his pedaling.

VTXL Bikepacking Route

The feel is of moving through an embracing Acadian tunnel with interludes of one-intersection towns, indelibly the textures of the Green Mountain State. The woodsy southern part presents the biggest continuous climbs over the Green Mountain range, while the north shows more open sky and hints of granite faces and ridges. Expect abundant climbing with frequent steep pitches and then quick descents to face another rise. It’s a ride that can be tackled as a personal challenge to complete without sleep, or one to be savored as a four- or five-day trip with camping, maple creamees, and frequent swimming breaks. This isn’t a tour of Vermont’s vaunted breweries—check out the Green Mountain Gravel Growler for that—but it’s easy enough to relax at camp with a top craft beer picked up at a small market.

Vermont has the highest ratio of cows to people of any US state, is the country’s leading producer of maple syrup and marble, and is the second least populous state. You’ll be waved at by farmers atop their tractors, you’ll smell the loam after a rain shower, and you might snack on baked goods from a family goodies stand. The mountain ridges will feel remote, while in the valleys you’ll see historic barns and working town firehouses. Of course there are covered bridges.

VTXL Bikepacking Route

This ride shows why VT is nowadays one of the most beloved places to ride gravel bikes in the USA, with country roads a perfect match for the aesthetic and the intention. It’s XL owing both to the fact that it is an extra-long dirt road ride in a beautiful place, and that it can be an extra-large helping of a trip.

Special thanks to Jonathon Dodge at Spoke ‘n’ Word in Colebrook, New Hampshire, Tom Seymour in Burke, and Matt Frost in Tunbridge for useful suggestions. And shout out to Carl Ring for the route name.

Explanation of Difficulty

The majority of the VTXL is on smooth and well-maintained dirt roads and it often passes close to resupply towns, so provisioning is not difficult. There are, however, perhaps a dozen rugged and rocky Class IV sections. (“Class IV” is a Vermont road designation that indicates a public right of way but where there is no town maintenance.) These sections vary in length but are usually under 2 miles/4 kilometers. They require some off-road skill to ride and might involve a few minutes of hike-a-bike. The main challenge of the route is the substantial climbing. In light of the occasional Class IV roads and climbing we have assigned a difficulty rating of 6 on the assumption of five days of riding. A reasonable heuristic would be to add one to the difficulty rating for every day less than five, or subtract one from the difficulty for every day beyond five.

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VTXL Bikepacking Route

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Trail Notes

  • Dirt roads across bucolic and pastoral landscapes.
  • A complete sample of the gorgeous Green Mountain state , one of the most rural of the eastern USA.
  • A dozen Vermont general stores , each with its own character, history, and essential place in the community.
  • In summer, plentiful streams and swimming holes for cooling off.
  • A section of the Revolutionary War Era Bailey Hazen Military Road.
  • The quiet Northeast Kingdom.
  • Proximity to the famous Kingdom Trails of East Burke . Consider spending an extra day along the trip to ride there. Bicycle rentals are available but there are fun trails for gravel bikes, too.
  • Great Vermont Corn Maze , the largest corn maze in New England. Stop in for laughs and getting lost.  
  • The VTXL was designed as a gravel bike trip , so the recommended format is a drop bar bike with 700c x 42mm or 650b x 47mm tires and traditional soft bikepacking bags. Tires narrower than 35mm or so would probably make the ride less fun. A rigid or hardtail MTB would be perfectly suitable, of course.  
  • Light and fast rolling tires are adequate. Three out of four of us on the scouting team used treadless Rene Herse tires (as did Ted King when he rode it), though having a very modest tread is probably useful for the occasional mud.
  • Ted King rode this route north to south and the author rode it south to north. The route can be ridden enjoyably in either direction, though it is somewhat harder from north to south. Keep in mind that there are significantly fewer resources at the northern terminus than at the southern terminus (see Trail Notes for details).
  • The recommended time of year for this ride is after Vermont’s mud season and before snow accumulation on the higher elevations. Therefore, June 1st through November 15th or so.
  • Be friendly and respectful to hunters , who are a traditional user group on many of the roads of the route in the late autumn. It is responsible to wear a blaze orange vest during hunting season.
  • For potential shuttle service to or from the start , contact David Ackerson in Williamstown. Ph: 413 652 9573 or email [email protected]
  • Find numerous campgrounds marked on the map.
  • Check Airbnb, Hipcamp, and Warm Showers.
  • Staying in lodging every night on this trip is certainly feasible. A reasonable five day/four night itinerary would have overnights in the areas of (i) Burke/Lyndon (ii) Chelsea (iii) Woodstock and (iv) Londonderry.
  • In the southern section of the route , dispersed camping is legal in the Green Mountain National Forest.
  • If wild camping , respect no trespassing signs and leave no trace.
  • Ticks are very much present in Vermont. Check over your body at the end of the day and practice tick-aware camping.  
  • Numerous resupply options are marked on the map , though they sometimes require a short detour off the course. Be sure to confirm business hours as Vermont general stores close early.
  • Plan to carry snacks that can see you through a meal if needed.
  • Water is typically not an issue with frequent stream and river crossing access in addition to H2O taps at stores and churches. Bring water treatment for all sources that are not municipal water supplies, as Vermont is an agriculture state.
  • The northern terminus of the route in Canaan, VT , is very rural with few services. Plan on being very self-sufficient for the northern beginning or end.
  • You may leave a vehicle at the Park and Ride in Canaan , marked on the map.
  • The southern terminus of the route in Pownal, VT , is on a rural road with a few nearby residences. Don’t expect to reach the southern Vermont border and hang out and socialize there. Indeed, please don’t  do that for the sake of the peace and quiet of the locals. Keep riding 4 miles/7 kilometers (it’s mostly downhill!) to Williamstown, MA. Williamstown has numerous restaurants, services, and hotels, and will be a useful place to decompress and regroup at the end of a N-S ride.  
  • The no overnight parking rule in Williamstown is aggressively enforced on the town streets. Park instead for free in the commercial parking lot where The Spoke bicycle shop is located. Leave your car in one of the less commonly needed spots near the main road and let the folks at The Spoke know so they can keep an eye out for your car and vouch for it if it parked there for many days.

trek travel vermont gravel

Terms of Use: As with each bikepacking route guide published on BIKEPACKING.com, should you choose to cycle this route, do so at your own risk. Prior to setting out check current local weather, conditions, and land/road closures. While riding, obey all public and private land use restrictions and rules, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and of course, follow the #leavenotrace guidelines . The information found herein is simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. In spite of the fact that this route, associated GPS track (GPX and maps), and all route guidelines were prepared under diligent research by the specified contributor and/or contributors, the accuracy of such and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. BIKEPACKING.com LLC, its partners, associates, and contributors are in no way liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other such situation that might happen to individual riders cycling or following this route.

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Dirt/Gravel Tours

trek travel vermont gravel

Whether you’re a rail-trail roller, gravel grinder, or a singletrack sender, Adventure Cycling has the ride for you. We have a bunch of off-road cycling tours across the U.S. in our van-supported, self-contained, inn-to-inn, and fully supported formats. From easy dirt trails and forest service roads to singletrack, we have it all. Be sure to read through the full tour description and feel free to contact us for more information about the best bike for your tour.

Photo by Clara Funk

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

bicycling bike awards 2024, ritchey outback breakaway

2024’s Best Gravel Bikes

8 Great Bikes for Grinding Gravel, Riding Dirt Roads, or Racing Cyclocross

Each year, Bicycling ’s test editors choose the Best Bikes from the thousands available across dozens of categories. Our process starts with analyzing price, features, and how each bike solves a rider’s needs. We also monitor cycling trends, research emerging riding categories, and closely follow new technologies. Then we tighten our focus on the bikes with the most potential, get them, ride them extensively, and discuss them rigorously amongst the test team and with other cyclists.

Almost no one uses a bicycle only how it’s portrayed on bike brands’ websites. So we test bikes in ways our readers ride them. We go to group rides and events, dig through social media posts, and dive into the minutia to give us insight into obstacles riders face and how they use their bikes to solve them.

State 6061 All-Road Apex XPLR AXS

Lauf seigla core wireless, ritchey outback break-away, argonaut gr3 custom, colnago c68 gravel sram red xplr axs, trek boone 5, canyon grizl:on cf 7, blackheart al gravel, best gravel bike.

blackheart al gravel

BlackHeart Bike Co. has a small and well-considered lineup of bikes and its newest addition—the Gravel AL—fits right in. As the name suggests, the Gravel AL is an aluminum gravel bike, with gravel-specific geometry and most importantly, clearance for 47mm tires.

When I first saw the Gravel AL, it reminded me of classic aluminum crit bikes. A simple design with an “everything you need and nothing you don’t” philosophy. A bike made for going fast.

The Gravel AL is fabricated using double-butted 7005 aluminum tubes and weighs 1,660 grams (claimed) for a size 54cm frame. The frame features modern touches such as integrated cable routing, an aero kammtail downtube, and a pair of dropped seat stays. All presumably to aid with the bike’s aerodynamics, although Blackheart does not make any specific aero claims for the Gravel AL.

Gravel-specific geometry is a term that gets thrown around a lot, but what it means in terms of numbers varies greatly from brand to brand (and sometimes even from model to model). For the Gravel AL, gravel geo means a head tube angle between 71 and 71.5 degrees, matched to a seat tube angle of 73.5 to 73.5º (both measurements depending on size). Chainstay length is consistent (427mm) across all sizes, with a trail figure between 66 and 64mm. And it’s incredibly impressive to see a relatively small company like BlackHeart offer eight sizes of the Gravel AL, from 46cm up to 62cm.

Blackheart AL

AL

One of the things that sets the Gravel AL apart from the many other gravel bikes on the market right now is the personalization BlackHeart offers at the time of purchase. Riders can pick from, no joke, 137 colors of Cerakote finish for their Gravel AL, with a single color frame paint and a 2nd logo color included in the price. For build kit options, most Shimano and SRAM groupsets are available. Although the Gravel AL isn’t compatible with mechanical 2x options (mechanical 1x and electronic 2x work just fine though).

Pricing for standard bikes starts at $3,200 (1x mechanical Shimano GRX) and tops out at $4,750 (2x Shimano GRX Di2). But it’s easy to build a much more expensive version of the Gravel AL through the numerous upgrades that BlackHeart offers. Riders can upgrade to various carbon wheels, CeramicSpeed bottom brackets, or power meters—even Enve’s new single-piece cockpit ($980) is an option. Most critically, riders can select their desired stem length and bar width when buying—a crucial option when purchasing a bike with an integrated front end.

Since BlackHearts gets so many details right, I expected the Gravel AL to ride well. It did not disappoint me in the slightest. The Gravel AL was the exact off-road dropbar bike I wanted as someone who enjoys fast road riding. On the pavement, I describe it as stable, but as soon as you get it onto the dirt, it comes alive. The bike‘s steering is precise and responsive, but never twitchy. On flowy gravel roads, it felt the way I would expect a road bike to feel. On tight singletrack, it brought enough verve to make me think I was on a cyclocross bike.

The Gravel AL’s sporty handling and spirited ride quality—paired with an excellent value proposition and BlackHeart’s customization options—make this a great bike. But don’t dismiss it as a budget alloy option, it’s as good of a performer as many pricier carbon bikes. In a sport like gravel racing, known for literally grinding delicate carbon chainstays into dust, there is certainly something to be said for an aluminum race bike. Just like I loved aluminum crit bikes in years past, I think I’m now in love with aluminum gravel race bikes. — Dan Chabanov

BEST BUDGET GRAVEL

state carbon all road bike parked on a gravel road

True to its name, State’s 6061 All-Road is for the rider looking to try a little bit of everything an off-road drop-bar bike can offer—bike packing, trail riding, gravel racing, and maybe even the occasional cyclocross race. And State keeps the bike’s price lower than many of its competitors.

At the heart of the All-Road is a low-fuss, 6061 aluminum (hence the name) frame with thru-axles front and rear. The fork is carbon and includes mounts for fenders. State offers several options and upgrades (color, wheels, saddles, etc) for the 6061 All-Road, including a killer price on SRAM’s Apex AXS XPLR group. This is one of the best deals for electronic shifting and hydraulic brakes on a gravel bike.

The 6061 All-Road can fit 650b or 700c wheels and State offers buyers a choice at purchase (or buy both for a $400 up-charge). Some argue that handling compromises must be made to accommodate both sizes but at this price, the versatility is well worth it. The option allows riders to personalize their All-Road or use their bike for distinctly different terrain or rides.

State Carbon All-Road

Carbon All-Road

However, don’t let the All-Road name fool you, the State is not meant for paved miles—pavement is where the All-Road is weakest. But as soon as I was on dirt, the All-Road lit up. The bike was pure fun when weaving through the trees, hopping logs, diving into bermed corners, and skidding around tight turns. The sluggishness I felt on the tarmac was replaced with responsiveness on the trail (without being overly twitchy). On the dirt, the bike’s light and nimble personality came through.

Compromises have to be made somewhere, and I was happy to accept the slower pavement miles for the All-Road’s downright thrilling performance in the woods, where the big tires ate up roots and rocks. The relaxed front end made it feel at ease descending on choppy singletrack or fireroads, and the All-Road allowed me to tackle with confidence. If your riding involves minimal pavement, and you want a gravel bike with electronic shifting, State’s 6061 All-Road is hard to beat. — D.C.

BEST BUDGET GRAVEL SUSPENSION

lauf seigla core wireless

Somewhere along the way, Lauf’s bikes became some of the best deals in cycling.

Take, for example, the Seigla gravel bike with the Core Wireless build. For a smidge less than $3,000, it offers a carbon frame with Lauf’s maintenance-free carbon suspension fork, a SRAM wireless electronic drivetrain, and a carbon handlebar.

But great deals are less great if you’re getting a bullshit product. The Seigla is not.

This is one of the smoothest gravel bikes on the planet. Between the 30mm of travel from the suspension fork, the compliance-enhancing rear end flex, and the massive tires it fits—up to 57mm—the Seigla is the answer to the world's roughest gravel roads. Mountain bike-like geometry creates a stable, confidence-inspiring bike that offers no surprises in challenging terrain or to tired riders at the end of an epic ride or race.

Seigla Core Wireless

It’s also an easy bike to own. The Seigla doesn’t use weird standards or proprietary components—just easy-to-find parts and details like external brake hose routing, threaded bottom bracket, standard seat collar, and UDH hanger. This makes it easy and quick to service and repair. The only note I’ll make is the sizing and seat tube angle may make it tricky for some people to dial in their ideal fit.

If you’re looking for a true gravel bike—not an all-road bike—with a focus on comfort and love a deal, there’s a Lauf Seigla in your future. — M.P.

BEST TRAVEL GRAVEL BIKE

riding a ritchey outback breakaway bike on gravel road

With so many great gravel events and riding locations across the country (and the world!), many cyclists want to bring their bikes along for a trip versus renting a poorly fitting and unfamiliar bike at their destination. But for a machine meant to take us places, traveling with a bicycle can be a major pain in the ass.

Fortunately, Ritchey’s time-tested Break-Away system simplifies travel with a bike. The bike quickly and easily disassembles and packs into its included 8.5”x26.5”x31” travel case. Since the Outback has external cable routing, packing the bike doesn’t require wrestling with integrated bars or cables routed through forks or headsets. And because Ritchey’s case is approximately sized, it helps you avoid the extra fees incurred by some bike travel bags.

Outback Break-Away

Many riders might wrongly assume that Ritchey trades ride quality for pack-ability with the Break-Away system. But the Outback rides exceptionally. It feels well-damped over rough road and washboard sections (aided by the frame’s steel tubing and high-volume rubber—the frame clears up to 700x48mm or 27.5x2.1” tires) and the bike’s fit and geometry are dialed. When riding, you completely forget that the Outback Break-Away is designed for travel and breaks down in minutes with a few Allen wrenches. On one tarmac descent, as the speed on my computer neared 50 mph, I giggled because the bike felt so confident and composed. There was no hint of speed wobble or shimmy, and only the tidy fitting on the downtube reminds you of the bike’s ability to separate into two pieces.

The bike’s handling leans more toward the road end of the gravel spectrum than some gravel-specific chassis. But that’s a good thing, and it adds to the bike’s overall usability. Use the Outback Break-Away with some narrow tires for a road-oriented trip or outfit it with knobbies for travels to locales with gravel roads. And since the bike fits racks and fenders, you can install all sorts of gear and bags and take the Outback on bikepacking vacations.

My only wish for the Outback Break-Away is that I would have owned one years ago. I previously traveled 20+ weeks per year for work and bringing a bike along was often tedious. I spent too many hours packing bikes into travel cases and wasted tons of money on excess bag fees because I was too stubborn to buy a bike purpose-built for the task. A Ritchey Break-Away is the bike I needed. — Tara Seplavy

BEST USA-MADE GRAVEL

argonaut gr3 gravel bike

In an impressively short timeframe, Argonaut has established itself as one of the world’s finest builders of dropbar bicycles. Its RM3 is a masterpiece and a bike that sings on the road like few others.

Argonaut hopes to capture some of the RM3’s exquisite essence in the GR3 gravel bike. Like the RM3, it is made in Bend, Oregon, and employs a modular carbon monocoque design that allows Argonaut to customize fit and ride characteristics to suit an individual rider’s needs. While the GR3 is custom, the platform is intended to be very high-performance and agile. It is designed for fast gravel riding and racing, not off-road touring or bike packing.

That’s one reason why, although it is a custom bike, handling geometry is largely fixed. The GR3’s geometry is quite road-like and features very short 415mm stays (very impressive considering the 50mm tire clearance). The only thing that gives it away as a gravel bike is its 68.5-degree head angle.

Argonaut GR3

GR3

It’s also a stripped-back frame for 1x drivetrains only, with no rack or fender mounts, although it does have a location for a bolt-on top tube bag and a third bottle mount under the down tube. A 27.2mm round seat post allows riders to run a suspension post or RockShox Reverb wireless dropper as desired.

While I did not find the GR3 to be as revelatory as the RM3—although few bikes could be—it is a magnificent bike for riders who want their gravel bike to be as fast and agile as their road racing bike. This bike is so snappy that the GR3 is largely devoid of the typical gravel bike dragginess on smooth tarmac. It’s almost as fast and responsive on pavement as on dirt. This comes at the expense of some stability when under-biking rowdier singletrack. But this is a compromise I’m happy to live with because it makes the GR3’s performance sharper on the terrain I traverse for 90-plus percent of my gravel riding.

One great way the GR3 is like the RM3 is in compliance and rider comfort. This is a well-damped frame with plenty of vertical give. And it’s necessary when you’re on a bike this fast. — M.P.

BEST ITALIAN GRAVEL BIKE

colnago c68 gravel on sand in front of ocean

While Tadaj Pogacar and his UAE team are among the very best road racers, they do not race on Colnago’s premier bike. The team races the Taiwan-made V4Rs; Colnago’s most-premium bike is the Italian-made C-series.

The C-series is not made to be—as required for a top-flight UCI race bike—the lightest and most aerodynamic bike possible. The C-Series is instead a bike that emphasizes craftsmanship, quality, and heritage. The C-Series is also, says Colnago, “Stylish.”

The latest generation of C-Series, the C68, sees a complete revamp of the platform . It moves away from the tube-and-lug construction of previous generations to a modular monocoque system that’s lighter, more tunable, and more modern looking but still permits custom geometry. But, although custom geometry is, technically, possible, Colnago has so many orders for stock-sized C-Series bikes that it states they are, for now, not opening the custom order book.

Although hinted at when the C68 platform debuted in 2022, it took a few more years for the C68 Gravel to arrive. And other than geometry, tire clearance, and a few minor details, there’s nothing significant that distinguishes the C68 Gravel’s frame from the C68s Road and All Road: Materials, construction, and overall positioning of the platform are the same. The Gravel version even shares its seatpost and integrated brake hose routing with the other C68 models.

Colnago C68 Gravel

C68 Gravel

Fit for the five available sizes is gravel specific: shorter and taller than a road bike, but still “aggressive” says Colnago. Handling geometry borrows from the mountain bike school of longer reach with a shorter stem. And it helps increase the front center and wheelbase of the bike for greater stability.

Tire clearance is on the spare side, 42mm maximum, and it’s free of typical gravel bike features like a third water bottle mount, rack mounts, fender mounts, or cargo mounts. All you get is a spot for a bolt-on top-tube snack bag. Surprisingly, there’s no UDH derailleur hanger, though I strongly suspect Colnago will make a running change in the near future.

While Colango does not call the C68 Gravel a race bike, it rides like one. It is stiff, efficient, and precise and its handling is about as close to perfect for fast gravel riding as any bike can get.

It does not have the pillowy compliance of other gravel bikes. This is a firm-riding bike that’s more suited to riding swiftly on dirt roads than it is for underbiking on singletrack. Unlike many gravel bikes, however, the C68 is suspension-corrected and ready-to-accept forks (like the Fox 32 TC and RockShox Rudy) without effect on its fit or handling. So, riders who need more comfort have that option.

Ultimately, the C68 Gravel is everything you’d expect from an Italian-made bike from one of the most legendary brands in the drop bar space: It is beautiful, exclusive, and very fast. — Matt Phillips

BEST CYCLOCROSS

trek boone 5

Purpose-built, cyclocross-specific bikes are a dying breed. And that’s unfortunate because ‘cross bikes are some of the most versatile dropbar bikes you can get. While cyclocross bikes are slightly heavier and use more stable geometry than road race or endurance road bikes, ‘cross bikes often handle quicker and are lighter (lacking suspension forks or extra gear mounts) than many gravel bikes. It makes ‘cross bikes ideal for riders splitting time between dirt roads, light-duty gravel, or with wider slick tires on paved roads.

While other brands market bikes for “cyclocross,” the offerings often feature wide tires, slack and low geometry, low gearing, or flared bars, making them better suited for gravel riding and racing than cyclocross tracks. Trek is among the few brands selling a race-ready ‘cross bike.

Boone 5

Trek built the Boone 5 around an OCLV carbon frame, the same as raced by the Baloise Trek Lions professional squad to several World Cup wins. Our testing of the $2,800 Boone (1,870-gram, size 58cm) frameset found the frame‘s IsoSpeed rear damper helps take the edge off across frozen ruts and rough roots when racing cross while also giving the bike added capability (with slick tires) as an all-day bike for riding rough pavement or dirt roads.

The complete bike Boone 5 model is equipped with SRAM’s wide-range Apex XPLR 11-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and tubeless-ready wheels. At $4,000, this Trek is a great starting point for aspiring cyclocross racers or riders looking for a solid all-arounder. — T.S.

BEST ELECTRIC GRAVEL

a person riding a canyon grizl on cf 7

The biggest benefit of e-bikes is their ability to take more people to more places. And Canyon’s Grizl:ON turns that to the maximum.

The Grizl:ON starts with the basic underpinnings of a solid gravel bike—slack geometry, flared handlebar, and slightly knobby tires—but Canyon fortifies it with Bosch’s latest motor, RockShox Rudy suspension fork, and integrated Lupine lighting. This transforms the Grizl:ON into an adventure-ready dropbar machine suitable for gravel, light trail riding, bikepacking, or commuting.

Canyon packs its product line with models for almost every possible cycling niche, and sometimes use cases for those bikes bleed into one another. The brand has two main gravel bike platforms, one biased towards fast-paced gravel riding and racing (Grail) and the other platform (Grizl) leans into adventure and rugged terrain. Both have e-bike variants.

Canyon Grizl:On

Grizl:On

The differences between the electric versions of the Grail and Grizl are muddier. Despite having a suspension fork, the new Grizl:ON is the lighter weight of the two bikes (by over 2 pounds). This is due to Canyon’s use of the lighter Bosch Performance Line SX Sprint motor and 400 Wh battery for the Grizl:ON. While the Grail:ON’s has 30 Nm additional torque and a 100 Wh larger battery, it only has slightly more claimed range.

After spending a bit of time riding and racing the non-electric Griz, I was excited to check out the ON version. Canyon always puts together great-value bikes, and the Grizl:ON is no exception—the bike is solidly equipped throughout. While the Grizl:ON doesn’t use the latest 12-speed Shimano GRX , the 11-speed GRX RX812/RX600 components reliably handle shifting and braking duties. And the new Bosch motor is a good match for the bike (not feeling like a full-power e-MTB set-up). The only knock against the Grizl:ON is the standard 60mm stem. Make sure you account for this when selecting your size as Canyon doesn’t yet offer longer lengths. — T.S.

More of the Best Bikes of the Year:

Road | mountain | commuter.

Headshot of Tara Seplavy

As Deputy Editor, Tara Seplavy leads Bicycling’s product test team; after having previously led product development and sourcing for multiple bike brands, run World Championship winning mountain bike teams, wrenched at renowned bicycle shops in Brooklyn, raced everything from criteriums to downhill, and ridden bikes on six different continents (landing herself in hospital emergency rooms in four countries and counting). Based in Easton, Pennsylvania, Tara spends tons of time on the road and trail testing products. A familiar face at cyclocross races, crits, and bike parks in the Mid Atlantic and New England, on weekends she can often be found racing for the New York City-based CRCA/KruisCX team. When not riding a bike, or talking about them, Tara listens to a lot of ska, punk, and emo music, and consumes too much social media.  

Headshot of Matt Phillips

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

Headshot of Dan Chabanov

Test Editor Dan Chabanov got his start in cycling as a New York City bike messenger but quickly found his way into road and cyclocross racing, competing in professional cyclocross races from 2009 to 2019 and winning a Master’s National Championship title in 2018. Prior to joining Bicycling in 2021, Dan worked as part of the race organization for the Red Hook Crit, as a coach with EnduranceWERX, as well as a freelance writer and photographer. 

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Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Four! Pedal through Val d’Orcia + Farm-To-Table Dining

JOM

If you missed the big news, JOM and Lady Gravel Cyclist (aka LGC) joined Trek Travel for their Gravel Bike Tour in the Tuscany region, which began on May 29, 2023 and ended on June 2nd, 2023.

trek travel tuscany gravel trip 2023

Pedal through Val d’Orcia and enjoy Farm-to-Table Dining

“Rise today with a cappuccino in preparation for some of the region’s most stunning views. Our ride today takes us to the hills of Val d’Orcia. The Val d’Orcia is an incredible agricultural landscape that is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its continued adherence to Renaissance layout and aesthetic. It is like cycling inside a painting!”

trek travel tuscany gravel trip 2023

Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour Day 4 Video

Alternative video link for those reading via email subscription ..

Continued from Above:

“You’ll continue through the medieval villages of San Quirico d’Orcia and Pienza, with buildings dating to the 15th century and epic views from every hilltop. Don’t forget to stop and savor the scenery and maybe even take a few pictures before we head back to the hotel. Tonight, we celebrate a week’s worth of memories with a special dinner prepared with seasonal ingredients sourced straight from the hotel farm and perfectly paired with select local vintages. We’ll toast together and recap the highlights of an incredible week!”

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

Featured Meal at Il Passaggio Restaurant

“The restaurant at Capanna Suites, our luxury farm stay, is set in a marvellous panoramic and inviting atmosphere and it offers a unique experience for all the senses. Our Chef will prepare a seasonal, locally focused menu with the ingredients from the farm. Tasting such incredible gourmet cuisine, paired with bottles from farm’s extensive wine cellar, is a culinary joy and evening to remember.”

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

TODAY’S RIDE:

  • Pienza to Lucignano D’Asso Loop Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 3,900 ft | 1,190 m
  • SHORT OPTION: Pienza to Lucignano D’Asso with Shuttle Approximately 25 mi | 40 km and 2,600 ft | 790 m
  • AVID OPTION (what JOM rode) Capanna to Lucignano D’Asso Loop Approximately 44 mi | 70 km and 4,270 ft | 1,300 m
  • HOTEL: Capanna Suites

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

For those unaware, Trek Travel has been in the business of cycling experiences for many years, mostly on the pavement, but we’re very excited to see they’ve expanded their portfolio into the world of gravel cycling! Trek Travel’s gravel bike tours combine mixed-surface roads in the company of guides well acquainted with the area, aboard world class bikes such as the Trek Checkpoint, and the company’s e-Bike, the Domane +, a review of which is posted in the link below.

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

Also linked below, a link to signup for Trek Travel’s newsletter to learn more about the new destinations Trek Travel has included in their gravel lineup, which include Bentonville, Shenandoah Valley, Swiss Alps, Girona, and Vermont. More destinations are going to be added next year, so you will not want to miss out on getting early access to those new dates and destinations!

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

If any of our viewing audience is interested in any of Trek Travel’s gravel trips, use promo code GRAVCYCLIST23 to save yourself $200 off your first trip. Don’t be shy, come along for the fun!

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

Visit the Trek Travel Website for more information. Day Five coming soon!

Support Gravel Cyclist: Buy Me a Coffee – https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gravelcyclist OR Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/gravelcyclist

Links of Interest:

  • Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day One
  • Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Two
  • Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Three
  • Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M Review: The Best All-Rounder Gravel Tire?
  • Trek Travel – https://trektravel.com – Use promo code GRAVCYCLIST23 to save yourself $200 off your first trip.
  • Trek Travel Newsletter Signup – https://trektravel.com/contact-us/newsletter-sign-up/
  • Trek Travel’s Gravel Destinations – https://trektravel.com/trip-type/gravel/
  • 2023 Trek Bicycles Domane SLR + eBike Review
  • 2023 Trek Bicycles Domane SLR Review
  • Gravel Bike Tyre Pressure Guidelines
  • Tailwind Nutrition (JOM’s choice of on-the-bike hydration)
  • Gravel Cyclist’s Route Library

Don’t forget to Like the Gravel Cyclist Facebook page , follow G.C. on Instagram , and subscribe to our Youtube Channel . We are also on Twitter !

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3-time Blues Music Award nominee for Best Soul Blues Album Dave Keller brings his magnificent musical styles and songwriting to Millstone Hill in Barre on October 7th, 2023 for a...

Welcome to the Ranger 2023

In this video, we head out for a preview of this year's course for The Ranger 2023, to see the sights, check out some new features and learn all about Vermont's Gravel Enduro from...

New stickers!

We have added new gravel-themed stickers to our offerings in our online store! Green/orange versions of our popular "Gravel" and "Bike Vermont Dirty" stickers are now available. We also have...

Register for Raid Lamoille!

One of our favorite Vermont gravel grinders is open for registration! Don't miss this year's Raid Lamoille, for an epic tour of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, starting and ending at the...

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High quality t-shirts printed in Vermont USA, featuring unique gravel cycling designs...  

High quality vinyl stickers featuring unique Vermont gravel cycling designs  

High quality hats printed in Vermont, USA, featuring unique gravel cycling designs...  

High quality hoodies printed in Vermont, USA, featuring unique gravel cycling designs...  

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IMAGES

  1. Vermont Gravel Traverse Bike Tour

    trek travel vermont gravel

  2. Vermont Bike Tours

    trek travel vermont gravel

  3. Vermont Bike Tours

    trek travel vermont gravel

  4. Vermont Gravel Traverse Bike Tour

    trek travel vermont gravel

  5. Pro Picks: Vermont’s 12 Best Gravel Rides

    trek travel vermont gravel

  6. Vermont Bike Tours & Trips

    trek travel vermont gravel

VIDEO

  1. New Gravel Trips

  2. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Four!

  3. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day One!

  4. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Two!

  5. 2023 Trek Checkpoint Gravel Bike Review

  6. The Ranger: Vermont's Gravel Enduro (2021)

COMMENTS

  1. Vermont Gravel Bike Tour

    It was the inaugural Trek Travel Gravel trip and was excellent. Read more. Linda, Trek Travel Guest. ... Our Vermont Gravel Bike Tour is best suited for Type 3 Riders who have experience riding gravel roads and are accustomed to hilly terrain. Type 2 riders who are comfortable riding gravel but are looking for less mileage can ride the short ...

  2. Pro Picks: Vermont's 12 Best Gravel Rides

    4. RANDOLPH: BRAINTREE'S 5 CLIMBS — by Zac Freeman. The pro: Zac Freeman and Angus McCusker have been the force behind the Rochester/Randolph Sports Trails Alliance. The duo have helped to cut and map backcountry ski trails in Brandon Gap and are about to release a map of gravel rides in the Rochester/ Randolph area.

  3. Vermont Bike Tour

    The Green Mountain Gravel Adventure, is arguably one of the best adventure routes in the northeast. It's based on a route created by Joe Cruz and Logan Watts from bikepacking.com, with some Discovery additions. You pedal 250 challenging miles and climb nearly 22,000 feet. Nearly 70% of the route is off-road — ranging from well-maintained ...

  4. Vermont Gravel Traverse Bike Tour

    SALE! Save $300! Only $2,495. The Vermont Gravel Traverse is a predominantly off-road route that traces a diagonal through the state of Vermont, from Canaan in the far northeast to Pownal in the far southwest. The route is modeled closely after the VTXL, which was inspired by ProTour rider Ted King and designed by Joe Cruz of bikepacking.com.

  5. Green Mountain Gravel Growler, Vermont

    The seed for the Green Mountain Gravel Growler was planted back in 2013 when a visit to Vermont revealed a burgeoning craft brewery scene that churned out 10 of the top 50 beers in the United States (Beer Advocate, 2013). ... This route was designed with gravel/cross bikes in mind. It features a lot of gravel, a few paved sections, some bits of ...

  6. On our new gravel trips, you can explore the scenic routes of Vermont

    gravel, wheel, Vermont | 178 views, 6 likes, 0 loves, 0 comments, 1 shares, Facebook Watch Videos from Trek Travel: On our new gravel trips, you can...

  7. Slate Valley Trails

    SVT has mapped 16 different routes out of the village of Poultney, Vermont in the heart of the Slate Valley. The Slate Valley contains a mixture of gravel roads, paved roads, rough class 4 roads and the D&H Rail Trail, offering some very good cycling and gravel riding in Vermont and eastern New York. The area features quiet roads, charming ...

  8. Vermont Gravel Bike Tour 8/6/2023

    Trek Travel bike tours, biking trips, and cycling vacations around the world. Here's some photos from those amazing vacations. Vermont Gravel Bike Tour 8/6/2023 - trektravel

  9. Podcast: Trek Travel Gravel Trips for 2023 with Amy Davidson

    Our partner in podcasting, The Gravel Ride Podcast, sits down this time around with Amy Davidson of Trek Travel, to discuss the explosion of gravel travel trips in their 2023 line up. With three North American trips (Bentonville, Vermont and Virginia) and three European trips ( Girona, Tuscany and Swiss Alps), Trek Travel has some amazing ...

  10. Trek Gravel Bike Trip Review: An Unforgettable Experience

    The only full day of our trip, Saturday's ride was the longest and most challenging. Options included a 14-mile trek with over 1,500 feet of climbing or an avid 28-mile route with over 3,000 ...

  11. Gravel Routes in Vermont

    Gravelmap is a tool for finding and sharing local gravel roads for biking, gravel grinding, exploration and more. Gravel Routes in Vermont - Gravelmap - Gravelmap x

  12. VTXL

    Pedaling in Place. The VTXL is one virtually continuous dirt path through Vermont from the Canada border to the Massachusetts border, linking the state's northeast and southwest corners and capturing its geography, landscape, and town life. Experience New England charm and the distinctive affection that locals have for place and a slow pace.

  13. Dirt/Gravel Tours

    Dirt/Gravel Tours. Whether you're a rail-trail roller, gravel grinder, or a singletrack sender, Adventure Cycling has the ride for you. We have a bunch of off-road cycling tours across the U.S. in our van-supported, self-contained, inn-to-inn, and fully supported formats. From easy dirt trails and forest service roads to singletrack, we have ...

  14. Bike Awards 2024

    For the Gravel AL, gravel geo means a head tube angle between 71 and 71.5 degrees, matched to a seat tube angle of 73.5 to 73.5º (both measurements depending on size).

  15. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Four! Pedal through Val d

    Trek Travel's gravel bike tours combine mixed-surface roads in the company of guides well acquainted with the area, aboard world class bikes such as the Trek Checkpoint, and the company's e-Bike, the Domane +, a review of which is posted in the link below. ... Swiss Alps, Girona, and Vermont. More destinations are going to be added next ...

  16. Green Mountain Gravel

    An Evening with Dave Keller - Solo Blues - In Support of Vermont Flood Relief. $100.00. Tax included. Pay in 4 interest-free installments of $25.00 with. Learn more. Quantity. Add to cart. Share. View full details.