backroads bike tours vermont

Popular Searches

• Portugal Bike Tours
• Family Trips
• National Parks
• River Cruises
• Women's Adventures

Vermont Bike Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+ Women's Adventures Women 18+ Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18) Families with Older Teens & 20s Best for ages 17-23 (min. age 14) Families with Teens & Kids Best for ages 9-17 (min. age 4)

From $4,349 - $5,099 /person

Activity Levels 2-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

Casual Plus Hotels - A step above Casual but not quite Premiere.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2024 : Jun-Jul, Sep-Oct 2025 : Jun-Jul, Sep-Oct

From Idyllic Stowe to Charming Woodstock

Rolling hills, warm colors, cool mornings invite you on our Vermont Bike Tour. Bike round the corner and you're high in the Green Mountains. Descend through a kaleidoscope of color into quiet farmland. Taste the maple. Savor the brilliant foliage. Take a break in Woodstock and walk the quaint shops in biking shoes. It's okay. They've heard the clip-clop before. Southern Vermont was made for biking.

• Ride through classic landscapes of vibrant foliage, picturesque rivers, old red barns and meandering waterways
• Taste a variety of local specialties like maple syrup, cheese and craft beer—and for a pick-me-up, order a maple latte
• Explore the quintessential New England villages of Stowe, Warren, East Middlebury and Woodstock and experience their top-notch shopping and dining
• Bike lush dramatic rolling hills that descend into wide bucolic valleys and quaint towns

Start/End Burlington

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into and out of Burlington International Airport (BTV).

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Begin your bike tour riding past manicured farms, wooded mountains and pastures dotted with black-and-white Holstein cows • Don’t forget to look up for striking views of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak • Explore the idyllic surroundings and historic architecture of Stowe Village.

Built as a private residence in 1833 and once a stagecoach stop, this historic inn has been tastefully restored and is walking distance from shops and eateries in downtown Stowe. (pool)

Cycle through maple forests and rustic farmland from beautiful Stowe to enchanting and historic Warren, stopping along the way in charming Montpelier, the smallest state capital in the United States • Bike through the postcard-perfect landscape of the Mad River Valley beneath the Green Mountains to the Pitcher Inn, our luxurious retreat • Pedal rolling rural roads to quaint East Middlebury • Challenge yourself on scenic Lincoln Gap Road—the steepest paved mile in America.

Sitting at the edge of a stream, this elegant property features charming porches, a gabled roof and unique guest rooms.

Birch, pine and vibrant maple trees flank your path to Woodstock, a quintessential New England village • Stop at the Billings Farm & Museum for a peek at American history • Ride tranquil roads through farmland and rural towns • Cross the celebrated Appalachian Trail to arrive in the town of Quechee, known for its 90-foot-long covered bridge spanning the Ottauquechee River • Watch local glass artisans ply their trade at the hydroelectrically powered Simon Pearce factory • Bike to South Woodstock, past beautiful horse stables and the famous South Woodstock Country Store. 

An "imposing landmark resort hotel facing the village green in a beautifully preserved village noted for its restored 18th-century homes," according to Andrew Harper. (pool, spa)

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

• Activity Level

What's Included

• All breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

Want to learn more about this trip?

Request a Detailed Itinerary! Complete with descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more, it’s the perfect tool to help you choose. You can easily share it with friends too!

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Premiere Hotel

• From Backroads (13)
• From Guests (0)

#MyBackroadsTrip

Share your adventure.

Tag @backroadstravel or use #MyBackroadsTrip to submit your photos.

Choose Your Perfect Bike

Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.

Included in your trip price

• Ideal for avid cyclists
• Redesigned for 2024
• Next gen titanium frame with carbon wheels
• Responsive, efficient and comfortable
• Drop handlebars only

Backroads Next Generation Performance Road Bike Sizing & Geometry

Swipe to see more

• Suited for a wide range of cyclists
• Comfortable ergonomic seat
• Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
• Upright handlebars only

Backroads Touring Bike Sizing & Geometry

• One of the lightest e-bikes available
• Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
• Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting

Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+

Backroads Electric-Assist Bike Sizing & Geometry

• $650 rental fee; subject to availability
• Ride like a pro with the top-of-the-line carbon Canyon Endurace CF SLX 9 Di2
• Perfectly balanced comfort and performance with a Grand Tour pedigree
• State-of-the-art components and precision German engineering

Canyon Endurace SLX 9 Di2 Sizing & Geometry

• $400 rental fee
• Hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed Cro-Moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train
• Custom upgraded wheelset
• Best for riders with some tandem experience.

Tandem Bike Sizing & Geometry

Have you gone on this trip? Be the first to leave a review.

Dates & Prices

Select Guests & Rooms

If you require more than 4 rooms or more than 2 beds per room please contact us.

If you require more than 4 rooms or more than 2 beds per room please contact us .

Your guest & room selections

You may only reserve one Stateroom Category at this time. Please call 800-462-2848 if you would like to make other arrangements.

Available Stateroom Categories

Each room must contain at least 1 guest.

Reservations must contain at least 1 adult (18+)

Please select your single room preference(s).

Enter the first & last name of your preferred roommate.

Hang on! Your request is still processing

Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.

1 room, 1 bed

Looks like you’re traveling with a smaller group

Our Private Trips are best for groups of 6 or more. We suggest joining a scheduled trip.

Still want to go private? Contact us

Please Select a Group Size

Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.

Book with Confidence

Backroads provides flexible booking policies so that you can plan your vacation with complete peace of mind.

Tell Us About Your Trip

Request a Sample Itinerary

Itineraries include detailed descriptions of each day, tips on pre- and post-trip travel arrangements, regional highlights and more. It's the perfect tool to help you choose!

Not sure of your travel date? Select any departure to view a sample itinerary. We'll also email it to you so you can access it at your leisure.

We're always seeking opportunities to enhance our itineraries; published trip details including routes and activities, as well as trips start and end locations, are subject to change and can vary by departure. Please do not use this itinerary to schedule your flights or any other travel. A Travel Planner, complete with the trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at the time of booking or soon after.

More Trips for You

Our Help Center is full of useful tips on finding your perfect trip, managing your reservation and much more.

Discover Your Next Adventure

By sharing your email address, you agree to the practices described in our  Privacy Policy .

251VT GravelRides.org

Biking Vermont

One Road at a Time

Biking All of Vermont’s 251 Towns on Gravel

Hi, this is Chris and Marcia, and we have been biking all the 251 towns in Vermont on gravel back roads. This is our website that shares our progress, including each ride’s GPS mapped route, shared on STRAVA, so you can follow in our bike-tracks.

Keep checking back to see our progress!

“The 251 Club of Vermont, established in 1954, is an organization of Vermont enthusiasts whose objective is to visit the 251 towns and cities in Vermont.” *

We joined the 251 Club of VT in August 2021, and use their VT251.com website to register and log our progress, checking off the towns as we add them to our list of finished rides.

Below is our 251 Club monitor map where we record our progress. As you can see, we still have a lot of exploring to do!

Link to updated 251 map of completed towns.

We are currently at 140 towns and counting.

Over half-way there.

Here is the list of our rides so far, with maps, Strava-linked routes, and descriptions:

NOTE: I didn’t start this website until we were almost 50 towns into our effort. Thus the pages for some early rides are bare bones links to Strava. We hope to go ride them again so we could add pictures and descriptions to the pages for these early rides.

Less Traveled Roads

The Road Less Traveled

I shall be telling this with a sigh;

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

Robert Frost

• Our Tour Guides
• Cycle Vermont 6-Day
• Lake Champlain & The Islands 5-Day
• Important Tour Details
• Bike Rentals
• Mid Week Tours
• Reservation Form
• Terms & Conditions

Cycle Vermont

6-Day / 5-Night Tour

Our Cycle Vermont Tour reflects 24 years of POMG bicycle touring every nook and cranny of the Green Mountain State. This tour is designed for those who want to experience a big piece of small Vermont, riding the most scenic and diverse routes. 2020 Cycle Vermont is the best of the best cycling in Vermont!

We'll enjoy Burlington, one of the most active and livable small cities in the country, then pedal north through the Lake Champlain Islands on our way to the Northeast Kingdom, tackle an optional century ride as well as a couple of mountain gap rides. Of course food and accommodations are central to your comfort and we'll be staying at five inns which will not disappoint.

Our tour begins Sunday morning with spectacular views of Lake Champlain, the Green Mountains to the east and New York's Adirondack Mountains to the west. We'll pedal into and out of Burlington on a world-class lakeside bike path. Burlington (pop. 40,000) is Vermont's largest city, cultural center and home to the University of Vermont. White steeple churches, not high-rise buildings, dominating the skyline. We continue north on the bike path, with an option to pedal the “Island Line” causeway to bike ferry, bisecting Mallet’s Bay and the broad lake. The Champlain Islands stretch south from the Canadian border for 30 miles, splitting the northern third of Lake Champlain in two. These narrow islands, four in all, are a cyclist's dream. There are quiet roads, mountain and lake views, small family-run shops in tiny villages surrounded by apple orchards and hay fields. The Shore Acres Inn, located right on the shore of Lake Champlain, will be our home Sunday night to relax and refuel on the Inn’s farm to table meals for the journey to come.

Monday, we continue north on the islands with Canada not far away. We'll cycle the perimeter of Isle La Motte - the smallest, most remote and least populated of the Champlain Islands - then enjoy easy riding on the West Shore of Alburgh, a peninsula that connects like a “tongue” to Canada. We leave the Islands via the mile long Missisiquoi Bay Bridge, where you will get your first glimpse of the Northeast Kingdom, a cyclist's paradise. We pass by lush dairy farms on our way to Montgomery Center where we'll ride through a covered bridge and finish our day at The INN, a newly renovated inn on the banks of the Trout River. Those interested in an end of day challenge, will tackle the exhilarating optional climb over the Jay Pass.

Tuesday, cycling begins over quiet roads through farmland and the sleepy villages of Eden and Hyde Park on our way to Morrisville. We climb to the tiny village of Elmore, home to Elmore General Store, Lake Elmore and Mount Elmore, with it’s fire tower standing sentinel at the summit. From here we cycle a POMG favorite, Route 12, all the way to Vermont’s Capital, Montpelier. Route 12 is 21 miles of lightly traveled, mostly downhill, paradise. Our home for the night is The Inn at Montpelier, built in the early 1800’s and comprising two stately federal style buildings. The Inn features a Colonial Revival veranda where you can relax post ride and take breakfast the next morning. Montpelier is a delightful walking “city” and the smallest State Capital in the Country (pop about 8000). It is home to foodies, hipsters, students and of course politicians. Close to the Inn, and worth a visit is the Vermont State House, with it’s impressive lawn and gardens inviting you to stroll up the stately steps into the granite building topped by the Ceres, the ancient Roman Goddess of Agriculture. Tonight dining is “on your own.” You select from several great eateries specializing in locally sourced food. The New England Culinary Institute located in Montpelier has two restaurants and has trained many of Vermont’s best restaurant chefs.

We depart Montpelier on Wednesday, century day. The ride is 75 miles inn-to-inn with an additional 25 mile option for those ready to tackle a century. We head toward East Montpelier on our way to Barre, home to the Rock of Ages Granite Quarry. Scenic beauty and quiet riding abounds, as we stay on Route 110 through rural Orange County. We'll pass the grounds of the Tunbridge World's Fair (146 years and counting!) on our way to South Royalton, home to The Vermont Law School and a delightful town green and several excellent lunch options including the local Co-op. River valleys surrounded by hills, flanked by dairy farms will melt the miles away. We climb through Bethel and Barnard (swim in Silver Lake if you'd like), where a stop at the Barnard General Store is a must. Reward yourself at their old fashion soda fountain with a chocolate malted or root beer float. Our final stop of the day is Woodstock, where a picturesque town green (with a Wednesday Farmers Market) and covered bridge welcome you for a rest. There are shops, galleries and more. Some may prefer to get on their way to the special care of Chuck and Edie Janisse at their October Country Inn. Home baked breads, homegrown vegetables and eclectic meals have made the October Country Inn a cyclist's favorite for years.

Thursday is a gentle and peaceful ride through two different river valleys (the White and the Mad) and through the Granville Gulf Natural Area. You will appreciate this gentler ride after century day. A stop at the Warren Store for fresh-baked goodies or one of their famous sandwiches, enjoyed on the deck, over-looking the river, will give you "Peace of Mind.” We end the ride in the care of Andrew and Heather Lynds at the newly renovated Mad River Barn. Originally a bunk house for the Civilian Conservation Corps, The Mad River Barn became an inn in the 1950’s. Andrew and Heather have painstakingly gutted and renovated every inch of the Inn while miraculously maintaining the character and history of the Barn. We’ll enjoy our last group dinner at The Barn’s restaurant and pub with several world-renowned local beers on tap.

Our tour winds down on Friday, with our return to the Champlain Valley. But first, we ascend the Green Mountains, passing through a low point known as the Appalachian Gap. We top out at 2356' and gaze west to the Champlain Valley and New York's Adirondack Mountains. It's a fast descent into Bristol, a classic old New England village famous for it's outhouse parade on the 4th of July. Finally, we visit Vergennes, the smallest city in the United States and home to an impressive restored opera house as well as one of our favorite French eateries, "3 Squares Cafe" formerly "Eat Good Food!" where we will do just that. The home stretch finds us on the shores of Lake Champlain where we began six days ago.

Spring / $1995

May 17 - 22, 2020

June 7 - 12, 2020

Summer & Fall / $2150

June 5 - 10, 2020

August 16 - 21, 2020

September 20 - 25, 2020

October 4 - 9, 2020

Rental Bike: $135 ( more rental info )

Single Supplement: Spring $595, Summer/Fall $650

Level of Difficulty: 

Moderate to Difficult (easy with shuttling)

38*, 52 & 63 mile options

42*, 57*, 68 & 87 mile options

27*, 32* & 54 mile options

56*, 64*, 75 & 100 mile options

31*, 56 & 62 mile options

33*, 51 & 59 mile options

*Special mileage note: requires a short van shuttle. Mileage listed is not exact.

5 Breakfasts

BED & BREAKFASTS ON THIS TOUR

Blaze Adventure Tours

The Vermont Epic Bicycle Tour

A gravel bike tour across the gorgeous landscapes of Vermont

Dates available upon request (example itinerary below)

Contact us now to start planning your private epic adventure tour!

Please review our cancellation policy before booking.

Rider Level

Beginner+ – Intermediate

Distance, Parcours, and Accommodation

18-60 miles daily, 5 days, Rolling Hills, Gravel and pavement. Premium hotels and lodges NOTE: THIS TOUR INCLUDES APPROXIMATELY 55% GRAVEL ROADS

What’s Included:

• Hotel Accommodation
• Daily baggage transfer
• Fully guided tour with two (2) guides
• Pre-tour consultation to make sure you are ready to go
• All breakfasts are included
• SAG support and water stops with snacks
• Blaze Adventure Tours tri-blend T-shirt and water bottle
• Free photos and trip video
• Bicycle Rental
• Hotel the night after the trip
• Shuttle Service before or after trip

What’s not Included:

• Bicycle – Recommended touring or gravel bike with 32mm-50mm tires. (Need help bringing your own bike? We will handle the logistics and can facilitate bike rentals)
• Alcohol and souvenirs
• Lunches and Dinners

The Lowdown

Boasting the lowest population density of any State on the eastern seaboard, Vermont is a hidden gem for cyclists and nature lovers alike. Enjoy the green mountain forests, pristine rivers, and rolling hills as you cycle along Vermont’s quiet gravel roads. This 5-day tour will give you a taste of everything Vermont has to offer; and we aren’t just talking about maple syrup.

What You’ll Love

Simply put, Vermont has the best low traffic roads in the country. Drivers are polite and there is a strong cycling and outdoors culture. As we cross the state and pass through idyllic small towns, you will get a taste of classic New England living. Climb to the summit of Mount Mansfield, taste at the plethora of craft breweries, and soak in the welcoming nature of long-time Vermonters. This tour also boasts some of the best meal options we have to offer. From Mad Taco to wood-fired Folino’s pizza to local cheese and apple cider, Vermont does not disappoint when it comes to food! The Vermont Epic truly has something for everyone and will make you want to come back to the Green Mountain State year after year.

The Night Before

Riders will settle in at the Courtyard Burlington Harbor Marriott in downtown Burlington near Lake Champlain. Enjoy a day in Burlington and hit some of the highlights before setting off on our grand adventure. Meet us at Foam Brewers for a get-to-know-us drink! These will be the people you’ll spend the next 5 days touring with, so the bonding starts now. We will have a beer (or whatever you prefer) and get excited about the epic trip awaiting us. Don’t stay up too late, because we will have an early start in the morning!

Day 1 – 38 miles; 1,821 feet of climbing or 49 miles; 2,645 feet of climbing: Day 1 starts with some gentle riding out of Burlington and into the country. We will utilize the cross Vermont trail and some excellent gravel roads on our way to Waterbury. There we will have lunch at the exceptional Prohibition Pig brewery and restaurant. If you’d like to grab some beers to go or from the shop across the street we are happy to drive them to camp for you. Short option riders will stop here and have a chance to check out the Cabot Farm Store (known for Cabot Cheese!); for the others we continue up to Stowe which is full of great restaurants and breweries. Don’t worry, our route takes us past the store so you can try some cheese as well. We will also be near Smugglers Notch which, aptly named for the history of smuggling leading up to the war of 1812, is a gem for hiking and outdoor activities in the shadow of Mount Mansfield.

Day 2 – 9 miles; 529 feet of climbing or 18 miles; 1,345 feet of climbing: The second day of our trip will be a real treat; we’re going to the top of Mount Mansfield! The group will have the option to hike up to the summit of Mount Mansfield , the tallest mountain in Vermont, or take a gondola up to a nearby peak. On a clear day there is no better view in the whole state. After the hike we’ll have lunch nearby at Cliff House on the mountain! A gondola ride down to our bikes will have one group doing a short ride back to Stowe, and those who want to ride more will continue on to Morrisville for a bit more exploring. The afternoon is free for more hiking around the area or visiting the shops and everything else Stowe has to offer.

Day 3 – 39 miles; 2,032 feet of climbing or 58 miles; 2,567 feet of climbing: Today we get to enjoy the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail! This newly completed trail has an exceptional surface, gentle grades, and an incredible view. After some lovely riding on the trail we break at Butch’s Harvest Store where you may have your first chance to have a maple creemee; the famous dessert which is Vermont’s answer to soft serve ice cream (and in our opinion even better). We end the day at the state capitol of Montpelier. Riders are free to explore the Vermont Historical Society Museum, Capitol Building, and numerous local restaurants in the area. You won’t want to miss our big group dinner at the Three Penny Taproom ; our guides’ choice for the best meal on the trip.

Day 4 – 29 miles; 1,838 feet of climbing or 55 miles; 4,522 feet of climbing: Get ready for the best riding of the trip! The first half of the day is tame as we wind along the Mad River . Lunchtime features the infamous Mad Taco as the group fuels up for our biggest challenge yet. Short day riders will stop in the adorable town of Warren at the country store. After we hit the town of Warren, the road starts to climb as we tackle Lincoln Pass . This gravel mountain will test your legs as we hit gradients as high as 20%! We ride down to Middlebury for our stay at the Courtyard Marriott and some well earned beer at one of the many breweries.

Day 5 – 31 miles; 1,664 feet of climbing or 60 miles; 2,567 feet of climbing: Our final day on tour takes us back to Burlington . You’ll want to soak in all the gravel and gentle terrain as our route winds its way through farmland and forest. Our last lunch will be at Fiddlehead Brewing and Folino’s Pizza . A beer and a pie will set you right for our final dash back to where we started. Short day riders will get a lift back to Burlington where everyone will meet at Leddy Park and ride a few miles out into the lake on the Lake Champlain Causeway. After checking back into the Courtyard Marriott Burlington Harbor and a shower, we’ll have farewell drinks at Citizen Cider in downtown Burlington.

Interested in other tours? Click here for our offerings! Need help training? Read our bicycle tour training guide

Share this:

• (802) 247-3300
• Reservations

Home > Bike > Road Biking

2024 Cycle & Bike Tours in Vermont

The lower Champlain Valley provides the best  cycling in Vermont.  While much of the rest of Vermont is mountainous, ours is a rolling terrain of open “bocage” farmland dotted with truly picturesque villages.  Our 2024 self-guided Vermont tours, designed for cyclists who want luggage transported between inns but have no need for a guide, provide 3, 4, or 5 days of leisurely paved-backroad biking with accurate maps, augmented by an orientation talk at the first inn and daily turn-by-turn cue sheets. Our guests have been thrilled that we are have obtained a license to provide our cyclists with a RideWithGPS app for their phones displaying turn-by-turn directions, spoken-aloud if desired.  Well-vetted routes provide 20 to 40 miles of safe, scenic, moderate biking per day, or more if you prefer.  Benefit from our 49 years of experience in searching out rewarding, safe, and scenic cycling routes and fine Vermont country inns.

Explore the charming villages of Brandon, Middlebury, Vergennes, Bristol, Shoreham, Addison, and Proctor.  Perhaps pop across Lake Champlain to check out the historic fort and village of Ticonderoga, NY, or climb the stone lighthouse and clamber over the pre-Revolutionary War fortresses at Crown Point, NY.  Enjoy a refreshing swim at a state park along several of our routes.  Visit museums and exhibits which present Vermont’s fascinating history.  Cruise through a covered bridge.  Pause while a farmer drives his (or her!) herd from field to field across your route.  And, enjoy the magnificent scenery all along the way.

The cycling season runs from about the beginning of May through about the third week of October. In 2024, the innkeepers expect to be facing the same labor shortage (housekeepers, waitstaff, kitchen help, etc.) that challenged Vermont hospitality enterprises since the onset of the pandemic.  As we partner with small, independent, owner-operated properties, we’re concentrating our cyclists at the inns on one or two nights each week.  As the travel and tourism world attempts to get back “on balance” in 2024 after three topsy-turvy pandemic years in a row, we are only able to offer our popular Vermont biking program as a three-, four-, or five-night itinerary checking in Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday afternoon and departing Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday mornings.

Comfortable accommodations at unique Vermont country inns, including farm-to-table dinners and hearty breakfasts, round out the package.  Occasionally, accommodations may be at charming bed-and-breakfasts (B&Bs), giving you the opportunity to dine at whim at fine local restaurants.  Trips start and end in “the Art and Soul of Vermont,” the village of  Brandon , where you will receive a personal overview of your trip.  Hosting our cyclists in 2024 (our 49th year) are Lilac Inn , The Inn on Park Street ,  Shoreham Inn ,  Strong House Inn B&B , and  Swift House Inn .  Bring your own bike, or rent from our well-equipped shop.  We do not plan biking for your arrival day.  Biking starts after your first overnight, when we meet you before breakfast to do a quick orientation talk and answer any “day-of” questions.  The bike shop also delivers rentals before breakfast.  We do generally plan to bike on departure day, but if your travel schedule does not allow, please advise early in the tour planning process so we can design your tour with that in mind.

Rental bikes are customized to your height and inseam measurements and your preferences for pedals.  Rental bikes come equipped with helmet, water bottle, and small trunk over rear wheel for sundries.  Each pair of bikes comes with spare tube(s), mini-pump, adjustment kit, and lock.  Additional comfort and safety items that come with your bike are a mirror and a handlebar-mounted phone holder to avail yourself of the RideWithGPS cues.  (Non-electric) hybrids are the longstanding recommendation.  These are not knobby-tired, heavy mountain bikes with shocks; they do have a bit beefier tire than a thin-tire road bike.  All the routes you ride will be paved, but more than half the road distance in Vermont is unpaved, and hybrids will give you more freedom to choose a quiet lane, take an extension that looks promising, or shortcut off the cued route using your large-format map.

Our 2024 independent Vermont cycling packages feature

• high-quality rental non-electric hybrid or non-electric road bike for one day of cycling for each overnight stay booked (or add $25 per rental day for an electric-assist  eBike; deduct $25 per rental day if bringing your own bike )
• relaxed Old World dinner service at your inn each evening (except one dine-out off-package if in Middlebury on a Tuesday night)
• comfortable country inn accommodations (private baths; non-smoking inns)
• full country breakfast at your inn each morning
• daily luggage transfer while you cycle
• an in-person orientation talk with one of the principals, in her 20th year of working with these tours
• cue sheets and daily tour highlights in advance through a fun and informative “Vamoos” app
• detailed maps and turn-by-turn cue sheets for cycling well-vetted, paved back roads that have been enjoyed by our clients for safety and scenery for more than forty years
• RideWithGPS app for on-bike directions on your phone sitting in a holder on the handlebars (audible cues spoken aloud if you desire)
• housekeeping and waitstaff gratuities
• Vermont meals and rooms taxes (9% or 10%, depending on the town)

Out-of-pocket expenses:  lunch daily along the way (or gather a picnic before setting out from the village this morning — we’ll let you know what the best approach is for each day); dinner one night (if in Middlebury on a Tuesday evening); and any alcohol.  “PPDO” pricing is “per person, double occupancy” and is the amount one person pays when there are two to a room.

2024 Summer Five-Night Tour (May 5th through September 14th)

Tour 1S:  arrive at Lilac Inn Sunday afternoon; finish at Lilac Inn Friday lunchtime

Tour 1S includes five nights at four unique inns in four different villages; biking on Friday is optional

(Friday’s optional biking is a figure-eight loop riding through three covered bridges of the Marble Valley)

Sunday Lilac; Monday Shoreham; Tuesday (dine out) Strong House; Wednesday Swift House; Thursday Lilac

$1745 ppdo / $3490 per couple or $2345 ppso (solo guest / private room); includes bikes for 5 days

Bring-your-own-bikes rate:  $1620 ppdo / $3240 per couple or $2220 ppso

Rent electric-assist eBikes instead of regular bikes:  $1870 ppdo / $3740 per couple or $2345 ppso

Preview this trip in a day-by-day online brochure

Book This Trip!

2024 Summer Four-Night Tour (May 5th through September 14th)

Tour 2S:  arrive at Lilac Inn Sunday afternoon; finish at Lilac Inn Thursday lunchtime

Tour 2S includes four nights at four unique inns in four different villages and *requires* biking on Thursday

Sunday Lilac; Monday Shoreham; Tuesday (dine out) Strong House; Wednesday Swift House

$1545 ppdo / $3090 per couple or $1995 ppso (solo guest / private room); includes bikes for 4 days

Bring-your-own-bikes rate:  $1445 ppdo / $2890 per couple or $1895 ppso

Rent electric-assist eBikes instead of regular bikes:  $1645 ppdo / $3290 per couple or $2095 ppso

Tour 3S:  arrive at Lilac Inn Sunday afternoon; finish at Lilac Inn Thursday lunchtime

Tour 3S includes four nights at three unique inns in three different villages; biking on Thursday is optional

(Thursday’s optional biking is a figure-eight loop riding through three covered bridges of the Marble Valley)

Sunday Lilac; Monday Shoreham; Tuesday (dine out) Swift House; Wednesday Lilac

2024 Summer Three-Night Tour (May 5th through September 14th)

Tour 4S:  arrive at Lilac Inn Sunday afternoon; finish at Lilac Inn Wednesday lunchtime

Tour 4S includes three nights at three unique inns in three different villages and *requires* biking on Wednesday

Sunday Lilac; Monday Shoreham; Tuesday (dine out) Swift House

$1245 ppdo / $2490 per couple or $1695 ppso (solo guest / private room); includes bikes for 3 days

Bring-your-own-bikes rate:  $1170 ppdo / $2340 per couple or $1620 ppso

Rent electric-assist eBikes instead of regular bikes:  $1320 ppdo / $2640 per couple or $1770 ppso

2024 Fall Season Five-Night Tour (Sept 15th – October 19th)

Tour 1F:  arrive at Lilac Inn Sunday afternoon; finish at Lilac Inn Friday lunchtime

Tour 1F includes five nights at four unique inns in four different villages; biking on Friday is optional

$1895 ppdo / $3790 per couple or $2495 ppso (solo guest / private room); includes bikes for 5 days

Bring-your-own-bikes rate:  $1770 ppdo / $3540 per couple or $2370 ppso

Rent electric-assist eBikes instead of regular bikes:  $2020 ppdo / $4040 per couple or $2620 ppso

2024 Fall Season Four-Night Tour (Sept 15th – October 19th)

Tour 2F:  arrive at Lilac Inn Sunday afternoon; finish at Lilac Inn Thursday lunchtime

Tour 2F includes four nights at four unique inns in four different villages and *requires* biking on Thursday

$1645 ppdo / $3290 per couple or $2095 ppso (solo guest / private room); includes bikes for 4 days

Bring-your-own-bikes rate:  $1545 ppdo / $3090 per couple or $1995 ppso

Rent electric-assist eBikes instead of regular bikes:  $1745 ppdo / $3490 per couple or $2195 ppso

Tour 3F:  arrive at Lilac Inn Sunday afternoon; finish at Lilac Inn Thursday lunchtime

Tour 3F includes four nights at three unique inns in three different villages; biking on Thursday is optional

2024 Fall Season Three-Night Tour (Sept 15th – October 19th)

Tour 4F:  arrive at Lilac Inn Sunday afternoon; finish at Lilac Inn Wednesday lunchtime

Tour 4F includes three nights at three unique inns in three different villages and *requires* biking on Wednesday

$1320 ppdo / $2640 per couple or $1770 ppso (solo guest / private room); includes bikes for 3 days

Bring-your-own-bikes rate:  $1245 ppdo / $2490 per couple or $1695 ppso

Rent electric-assist eBikes instead of regular bikes:  $1395 ppdo / $2790 per couple or $1845 ppso

Electric-assist bikes are available for rent!  “eBikes” are purpose-designed/built hybrid bikes factory-outfitted with small electric motors to help give you that little push you might appreciate on the hills.  Many, many of our guests have reported that their eBike made the trip just that much more enjoyable because it was just that much less work.  eBikes do require pedaling:  when you are pedaling, they boost your power.  When you are not pedaling, they do nothing to move you along (you just have a very heavy bike).

If bringing your own bikes :  A “beach cruiser” is not appropriate for distance touring, nor is your old ten-speed from high school.  Have your bike inspected by a reputable mechanic, and consider equipping your own bike similarly to how the bike shop equips the rentals (read above), including a handlebar-mounted holder for your cue sheets / map and phone to avail yourselves of the RideWithGPS app assistance.

Book a Self-Guided Vermont Bicyle Tour!

[email protected]

(802) 730-0161

TRAILSIDE BIKE CENTER on the  LAMOILLE VALLEY RAIL TRAIL!

19 Creamery St. - Johnson, VT

RENTALS  -  TOURS  -  SALES  -  SHUTTLE

E-Bikes, bikes, gravel bikes, trail info & accesories!

LAMOILLE VALLEY BIKE TOURS

DON'T JUST VISIT VERMONT, EXPERIENCE IT!

93 miles of car free riding and Vermont views await along the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail! Welcome to New England's longest Rail Trail!  Visit us at our TRAILSIDE location for bike and E-Bike tours, rentals and sales!  We are easily located at 19 Creamery St.  in the beautiful Village of Johnson, Vermont. Only 20 minutes from both Stowe and Smugglers Notch. Park here, ride here! We have everything you need for a day of adventure out on the trail! 

Open daily June thru October  

Mon - Sat: 9am to 5pm

Sundays: 10 am to 2pm

Rentals available with  advanced reservation Nov. through May

ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE & BIKE SALE  Saturday April 27th 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE & BIKE SALE! Saturday April 27th 9-5!!! New and used E-Bikes ON SALE (acoustic gravel and hybrid bikes too). Come try before you buy at our trailside bike center on the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail. We'll answer all of your EBike questions, talking bikes, looking at bikes and riding bikes!

ADVENTURE AWAITS!

E-BIKE TOURS

BIKE & EBIKE RENTALS

RAIL TRAIL BIKE SHUTTLE

E-BIKE SALES

Family Style Cargo E-Bikes

Adventure for all ages! We have Electric Cargo bikes in our fleet for family riding. These bikes are designed to accommodate children passengers age 2 to 92. The pedal assist is guaranteed to keep you smiling all the way so you can enjoy a family bike day!

What They're Saying

Unexpected little gem during our week in Stowe

Out of all the exciting things we did during our week in Stowe, Vermont, this proved to be one of the most fun. It’s great because it’s relaxing yet you get some good exercise. The scenery is beautiful and there are some fun little things to check out along the path. We did a six-hour rental which was nice since it allows you to go at your own pace and be spontaneous if you want.     _Barry T.

Cannot Say Enough Great Things about this e-bike experience!  Jim, the owner is way beyond the average when it coes to customer service and peronability. Truly Superb. The Trails is beatiful and the experience with this rental outfit was absolutley the best day of our trip to VT. Thank you so much! Cant' wait to come back!     _Ryan B.

Do Not Miss This!

This is such a fun recreational activity with breathtaking scenery especially in the fall! The staff are super friendly, very accommodating and knowledgeable of the trail and area. Great little towns to stop in along the trail that have nice little cafes and restaurants. Dog's Head on the river is a must stop. Very relaxing! Lastly, I can't say enough about how fun the ebikes are. They just put an infectious smile on your face while you pedal along with the pedal assist feature. We just did the half day ride because we had other things on our itinerary but I would easily schedule the whole day next time. Absolutely worth every penny.     _Fred R.

For everyone

My wife and I took our first ebike ride here. The ebikes make it an activity that doesn't wear you out. The path is mostly level with a few inclines at road crossings. Outside, Autumn air, and turning leaves, what could be better? You can stop along your trip in one of the towns and enjoy shopping or a beverage of your choice. Jim took good care of is, explaining how to use the bikes as well as a little bit about the bike trail's many places to stop.    _Don C.

Self-guided bike tours with batteries and back roads

Vermont Bike & Brew tours are so much more than a bike ride. It is your chance to explore Vermont backroads and grab a front row seat to experience our vibrant communities and local culture. Every route showcases different scenic views and local businesses and no two tours are alike. If you really want to dive into the Upper Valley then you absolutely must take a tour!

Touring on an electric bike means that you can cover more ground in less time, slow down to enjoy a great meal, and have energy left over for whatever comes next. Seeing a steep hill won’t make you ask “what’s up there?” anymore because you’ll be on your way up there to find out.

All tours are self-guided.

Brewery Tours

The bread and butter of Vermont Bike & Brew. Choose from over 15 routes that visit 3 distinct craft breweries. All routes feature a variety of Vermont attractions like maple creemee stands, cafes, and swimming holes, so even if beer isn’t your thing, these tours are still for you.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 →

You May Also Like

Fairways and frisbees.

Stupid Pain, Plenty of Gain

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

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

Pingback: Best Bike Trails in Vermont - Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Pingback: Ways to Enjoy Mud Season - VMBA

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Tailwind on every ride? – See e-bike trips

$250 off your first Cycling or Hiking Vacation – use code at checkout: Explore250

European Classic booking fast – see the trips

• Request a Catalog
• 866-464-8735

Select Date Range

Modal title, popular searches.

California Wine Country Bike Tour

Croatia and The Dalmatian Coast Bike Tour

Mallorca 7-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

Tuscany Bike Tour

Vermont Gravel Bike Tour

Explore serene gravel roads around Stowe and East Burke

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 of the Green Mountains and Northeast Kingdom, 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 »

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 bike from one quaint village to another

Gravel roads of Vermont

Discover why Vermont is the birthplace of gravel

Vermont offers an ideal oasis for gravel biking, where it's easy to combine rustic cycling with farm-fresh food and a good night's sleep.

What Guests are Saying

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

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

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

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

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, $ 2299.00 per person.

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy from: + 599.00

July 7-11, 2024 Guaranteed

$ 2399.00 per person, july 28-august 1, 2024 limited availability, $ 2499.00 per person, august 4-8, 2024 guaranteed, $ 2199.00 per person, 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 renowned 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

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

Enjoy a free afternoon and evening 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

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, perfectly punctuated with 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 ... 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, perfectly punctuated with 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

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

Enjoy your final ride along the base of Burke Mountain and keep your eyes out for black bear sightings.

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

Print full itinerary

View full itinerary to print.

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 Bike Tour»
• Shenandoah Valley Gravel Bike Tour»
• Asheville to Brevard Bike Tour»

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

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.

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. The Inn is also home to rescued farm animals, including several horses, and the property is laced with mountain bike, hiking, and cross-country ski trails.

Bikes & Gear

Ride with confidence on the best gravel bike in the business, featuring a high-performance frame designed to be nimble yet stable, and the smoothing effect of IsoSpeed technology. Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide safe stopping, and with the electronic Shimano GRX Di2 drivetrain, you’re set for smooth shifting on any terrain. Enjoy all the bumps in the road with robust 45mm tubeless tires. The Checkpoint SLR 7 will take you on big adventures beyond the pavement.

Upgrade your experience on the Domane+ SLR 7. It has everything you love in a road bike, with the extra boost to take you farther than ever before. With an ultra-lightweight design and a whisper quiet electric assist motor, this performance e-road bike will assist you on the climbs and enable you to venture further. So go ahead—take the long way. With Domane+ SLR 7, there’s always room for more distance 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 specific trip dates for available bike options.

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.

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

• 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:

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

Similar Trips

Shenandoah Valley Gravel Bike Tour

 Compare

Swiss Alps Gravel Bike Tour

Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour

Vermont Bike Tour

Girona Gravel Bike Tour

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).

Classic - Discover:

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

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.