The best road cycling routes around Bennington

Bennington's road cycling routes offer a diverse landscape, situated between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Mountains. You'll encounter a mix of rolling hills, river valleys, and varied terrain. Routes often feature both paved and gravel sections, catering to different cycling preferences and skill levels.

Yes, Bennington offers options for various abilities. While many routes include significant elevation gain, there are easier rides available. For instance, the region has 3 easy-rated routes, such as the Bluestem Prairie Preserve – Zorinsky Lake Trail loop from Douglas County, which is 21.0 miles with a moderate elevation gain of 509 feet.

Bennington is rich in scenic beauty and historical landmarks. Many routes offer views of the Walloomsac and Battenkill rivers, and you can cycle past historic covered bridges like the Silk Road, Paper Mill, and Burt Henry Covered Bridges. The iconic Bennington Battle Monument is a prominent landmark on many rides, offering breathtaking views from its observation deck.

Absolutely. The mountainous terrain around Bennington provides plenty of challenges for advanced cyclists. Routes like the demanding "Kingsley/Greylock/Petersburg Pass" ride, which covers over 106 miles with more than 12,000 feet of climbing, cater to those seeking significant elevation gain and a rigorous workout.

Each season offers a unique experience. Summers are ideal for exploring local flora and fauna. However, fall foliage transforms the region into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a particularly popular and picturesque time for cycling. Spring also brings beautiful wildflowers.

Yes, Bennington's history is woven into its landscape. You can find routes that pass by the Bennington Battle Monument, historic covered bridges, the Robert Frost Stone House Museum, and the Old Bennington Cemetery, Vermont's oldest cemetery. These sites provide cultural enrichment and scenic backdrops for your ride.

Many of Bennington's popular road cycling options are loops. Examples include the "Bennington Battle Monument – Vermont Working Farm (Gravel Road) loop" and the "Carpenter Hill – Bennington Battle Monument" loop, which offer varying distances and difficulties while bringing you back to your starting point.

Route durations vary significantly based on distance and elevation. For example, an easy route like the Bluestem Prairie Preserve – Zorinsky Lake Trail loop from Douglas County takes about 1 hour 41 minutes, while a moderate route like the Big Papio Trail – Harrison Heights Park loop from Douglas County can take around 3 hours 8 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes can extend to several hours or even a full day.

Yes, Bennington's natural landscape includes several beautiful water features. You can find routes that offer views of the Walloomsac and Battenkill Rivers. While not directly on road cycling routes, Lake Paran is a notable nearby body of water, ideal for other activities, and Woodford State Park features Adams Reservoir.

Elevation gain varies widely. Easier routes might have around 500 feet of gain, such as the Bluestem Prairie Preserve – Zorinsky Lake Trail loop from Douglas County with 509 feet. Moderate routes, like the Big Papio Trail – Harrison Heights Park loop from Douglas County, can feature over 1,100 feet. For advanced riders, routes like "Kingsley/Greylock/Petersburg Pass" can exceed 12,000 feet of climbing.

While many routes offer stunning fall foliage, those traversing the Green Mountains and Taconic Mountains, or passing through river valleys, will provide particularly vibrant displays. The "Bennington Battle Monument Loops" and routes through historic areas are excellent choices for experiencing the autumn colors.

There are over 6 road cycling routes detailed in this guide for the Bennington area, offering a range of difficulties from easy to moderate, ensuring options for various skill levels.