The best road cycling routes in Washington County
4.3
(9)
1,304
riders
54
rides
Road cycling in Washington County, Vermont, features routes that traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and significant elevation changes. The region includes challenging mountain passes like Appalachian Gap and Middlebury Gap, alongside more moderate routes through scenic farmlands and along waterways. This diverse terrain offers varied road cycling experiences, from demanding climbs to gentler rides through rural settings.
Best road cycling routes in Washington County
- The most popular road cycling route is Middlebury Gap – Appalachian Gap loop from Mad River Glen, a 66.9 miles (107.6 km) difficult trail that takes 5 hours 11 minutes to complete. This route features significant elevation gain through two notable mountain passes.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Baker Pond – O'Maddi's Deli & Café loop from Northfield, a moderate 40.3 miles (64.8 km) path. This route offers a balanced ride through varied terrain, including scenic pond views.
- Local road cyclists also love the Great Eddy Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort, a 22.5 miles (36.1 km) trail leading through river valleys and past historic covered bridges, often completed in about 1 hour 58 minutes.
- Road cycling in Washington County is defined by challenging mountain passes, scenic river valleys, and rolling hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to difficult climbs.
- The routes in Washington County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 7 reviews. More than 875 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Washington County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
178
riders
108km
05:11
1,510m
1,500m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
63
riders
64.8km
02:48
520m
520m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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54
riders
101km
06:03
1,340m
1,340m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
37
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
40
riders
46.9km
02:59
810m
810m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
36
riders
62.8km
03:41
1,440m
1,450m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
43
riders
17.7km
01:10
510m
510m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
35
riders
23.5km
01:10
290m
290m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
25
riders
82.4km
03:53
1,090m
1,090m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
22
riders
34.0km
01:32
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Washington County
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Tips from the Community
For now, at least, this section of the Cross-Vermont Trail overlaps with Route 2. At least you have the pretty Winooski River for company!
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Avoid highway 100 by taking this lovely side road from Pine Brook Covered Bridge up almost to Moretown
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Extremely hilly, sounds of nature, lot's to see & experience. Downhills are well worth the climbs. You definitely need to have some rides/climbing in your season. Update 7/26/25 Still crazy hilly & and punchy. However, the downhill runs are amazing..😉
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Middlebury Gap is a mountain pass in Vermont's Green Mountains and a great, very challenging climb for any rider. It divides two different drainage areas with the Robbins Branch flowing southeast into the White River, and the South Branch into Middlebury River, which into Otter Creek, connecting to Lake Champlain. The Long Trail, a 272-mile hiking route traversing Vermont, runs through here, passing between Worth Mountain and Boyce Mountain. The Breadloaf Wilderness lies to the north, while Middlebury College Snow Bowl and Joseph Battell Wilderness are nearby to the south.
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You'll have to hop off your bike if you want to visit Warren Falls, but it's worth the short walk to check out this series of cascades and popular swimming holes.
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Baker Pond is a peaceful lake surrounded by a vibrant green forest, with beautiful fall colors. The pond covers an area of 35 acres, and it is easily accessed from the road, with a gravel ramp for boat access. The access to the pond is an open area and can be a nice place to take a break. This pond belongs to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department and it is a popular destination for fishing.
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A stunning natural site featuring a series of cascading falls and inviting swimming holes. It's a popular destination for locals and tourists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of road cycling routes can I find in Washington County?
Washington County, Vermont, offers a diverse range of road cycling experiences. You'll find routes traversing rolling hills, scenic river valleys, and challenging mountain passes like Appalachian Gap and Middlebury Gap. The region caters to various skill levels, from moderate loops through farmlands to demanding climbs.
How many road cycling routes are available in Washington County?
There are over 50 road cycling routes available in Washington County, with 8 routes classified as easy, 31 as moderate, and 13 as difficult, ensuring options for all experience levels.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes with significant climbs?
Yes, Washington County is known for its challenging mountain passes. For a demanding ride, consider the Middlebury Gap – Appalachian Gap loop from Mad River Glen, which is 107.6 km long with over 1500 meters of elevation gain. Another difficult option is the Appalachian Gap loop from Sugarbush Resort, covering 62.8 km with over 1400 meters of ascent.
What are some moderate road cycling routes in the area?
For a balanced ride, the Baker Pond – O'Maddi's Deli & Café loop from Northfield is a popular moderate option, spanning 64.8 km and offering scenic pond views. Another great choice is the Red Hen Bakery loop from Waterbury, a 33.9 km route with moderate elevation.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed ride?
Yes, there are several easy routes. An excellent option for a relaxed ride is the Great Eddy Covered Bridge loop from Punch Bowl swimming hole, which is 23.5 km long with manageable elevation, perfect for enjoying the scenery.
What scenic attractions can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes pass through picturesque landscapes. You can cycle past historic covered bridges, such as on the Great Eddy Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort. The region also features beautiful natural highlights like the Waterbury Reservoir Beach and the Spruce Mountain Fire Tower, offering great views.
Are there any routes that pass by waterfalls?
Yes, the Warren Falls loop from Waitsfield is a moderate 31.7 km route that will take you past the beautiful Warren Falls, offering a refreshing stop during your ride.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Washington County?
The road cycling routes in Washington County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.2 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging mountain passes to scenic river valleys, and the well-maintained roads.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Washington County?
The best time for road cycling in Washington County is typically from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally favorable, and the scenic landscapes are at their most vibrant. Mountain passes may have snow earlier or later in the season.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes in Washington County?
For a longer ride, the Middlebury Gap – Appalachian Gap loop from Mad River Glen is a substantial 107.6 km route, offering a full day of challenging cycling through two major mountain passes.
Can I find routes that are circular or loop back to the starting point?
Many of the routes in Washington County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same location. Examples include the Great Eddy Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort and the Waterbury – Appalachian Gap loop from Waterbury-Stowe.
Most popular routes in Washington County
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