The best cycling routes in Willoughby State Forest

Willoughby State Forest offers 5 touring cycling routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, allowing cyclists to explore the region's unique landscape.

The vibrant fall foliage season is particularly scenic for touring cycling in Willoughby State Forest, offering breathtaking views. However, the area is beautiful throughout the warmer months, with clear days providing extensive vistas.

Touring cyclists in Willoughby State Forest will primarily encounter gravel-surfaced roads, such as the CCC Road and Duck Pond Road, as well as the paved Lake Willoughby Scenic Drive. These routes offer a mix of forested areas and stunning lake views.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Willoughby State Forest are designed as loops. For example, the Peter Gilman Waterfall – Lake Willoughby Scenic Drive loop from Westmore is a popular option that takes you past a notable waterfall and offers lake views.

The region is renowned for its fjord-like Lake Willoughby, nestled between Mount Hor and Mount Pisgah. You can enjoy stunning views along the Lake Willoughby Scenic Drive. Other notable features include the Bald Mountain Summit (accessible via hiking trails from the cycling routes) and the unique Willoughby Cliffs Natural Area.

Yes, the Peter Gilman Waterfall is easily accessible and is even part of a popular touring cycling route, the Peter Gilman Waterfall – Lake Willoughby Scenic Drive loop from Westmore.

Beyond the stunning lake, you can find attractions like the Bald Mountain Summit, offering panoramic views. The South Beach, Lake Willoughby is also a picturesque spot for a break, known for its views of the glacial lake.

While the routes are generally moderate to difficult, the scenic gravel roads and the Lake Willoughby Scenic Drive offer opportunities for families to enjoy the landscape. Consider the shorter sections of the scenic drive for a more relaxed family outing, keeping in mind the overall difficulty ratings of the full loop routes.

Parking is typically available at various access points around Lake Willoughby and near the start of popular routes. Specific parking areas can be found near Westmore, which serves as a common starting point for several touring cycling loops.

Willoughby State Forest generally allows dogs, but they should be kept on a leash. Cyclists should ensure their dogs are well-behaved and do not interfere with other visitors or wildlife, especially on shared gravel roads.

Bicycles are specifically permitted on gravel-surfaced roads within Willoughby State Forest, including the CCC Road and Duck Pond Road. The paved Vermont Route 5a, known as the Lake Willoughby Scenic Drive, is also open to cyclists and offers stunning views along the western shore of Lake Willoughby.

While the forest itself is largely undeveloped, you can find places to get refreshments in nearby towns like Westmore or along the Lake Willoughby Scenic Drive. The 'Willoughby Lake Store' is a known spot where cyclists can stop for a break and supplies.

The touring cycling routes in Willoughby State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning fjord-like scenery of Lake Willoughby, the quiet gravel roads, and the immersive experience of cycling through the forested mountains.

Absolutely! After your ride, you can enjoy water activities like swimming or kayaking in Lake Willoughby, especially at South Beach. The forest also offers over 12 miles of hiking trails, with popular options on Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor providing dramatic vistas.