The best road cycling routes in Button Bay State Park
33
riders
5
rides
Road cycling in Button Bay State Park offers routes along the shores of Lake Champlain, providing views of the Adirondack Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east. The terrain is notably flatter than many other parts of Vermont, making it suitable for various fitness levels. The park's location along the Lake Champlain Bikeway integrates it into a broader network of mostly paved surfaces with minimal traffic. This area is characterized by limestone bedrock and diverse flora.
…Last updated: June 1, 2026
11
riders
43.1km
01:44
240m
240m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
1
riders
48.7km
03:20
780m
780m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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4
riders
40.8km
02:12
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
14.5km
00:54
70m
70m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
50.1km
02:15
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The site chronicles millennia of local history, from indigenous cultures to the French-Indian War and early America. They have a lot of interesting artefacts, but the hours can be odd so it's best to check the website before your ride if you are planning to stop by. The views of Lake Champlain, the bridge, and Fort St. Frederic across the water make this a pretty remarkable spot to visit.
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The historic main street of Middlebury offers a quintessential small New England town experience. Unique local shops, art galleries, and restaurants in historic brick buildings line the street. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the beautiful white-steepled church and the picturesque town green.
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The Pulp Mill Covered Bridge is a historic wooden bridge just north of downtown Middlebury. Also known as the Paper Mill Covered Bridge, this bridge a great example of New England's covered bridges. Built in the mid-19th century, it spans Otter Creek and is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. Covered bridges are an iconic part of New England's landscape and history. They were once a common sight throughout the region, as they provided a way for travelers to cross rivers and streams in all seasons. While many of the original bridges have been lost to natural disasters and modernization, there are still over 100 covered bridges in Vermont today.
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Middlebury Falls is a unique 20 foot waterfall on Otter Creek right in the center of this picturesque New England town. You get great views of the falls from this spot on a bridge on Main Street. You can also see the ruins of the old Powder House to the lefthand side of the falls. While they are beautiful all year round, Middlebury Falls are particularly interesting in the winter when they partially freeze over.
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Middlebury Falls is a rather unusual urban waterfall. Take the opportunity to take a tour of the city. Middlebury is one of the most attractive small towns in Vermont, full of shops, art galleries and highly rated restaurants.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect for road cycling in Button Bay State Park?
The terrain around Button Bay State Park is generally flatter than many other parts of Vermont, making it suitable for a variety of fitness levels. Routes often feature mostly paved surfaces with minimal traffic, offering scenic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Green Mountains.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the region offers several easy road cycling routes. For example, the Roadbike loop from Button Bay State Park is an easy 26.8-mile trail, and the Roadbike loop from Ecole Champlain is a shorter 9.0-mile option, both leading through flatter areas near Lake Champlain.
What are some of the natural features or landmarks I might encounter on a road cycling trip?
While cycling, you'll enjoy spectacular views across Lake Champlain and of the Adirondack Mountains. The park itself features the Button Point Natural Area, known for its limestone bedrock and unique flora. You might also spot the distinctive 'button-shaped concretions' along the shoreline, which give the park its name.
Are there more challenging road cycling routes available?
Yes, for those seeking more challenge, there are moderate routes with greater elevation gain. The Middlebury Falls – Pulp Mill Covered Bridge loop from Vergennes is a moderate 31.2-mile path featuring varied terrain and views of the surrounding mountains. Another moderate option is the Ainger Hill loop from Westport, which includes more significant elevation changes.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Button Bay State Park?
The best time for road cycling is typically from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the routes are clear of snow and ice. The region's natural beauty, especially along Lake Champlain, is particularly vibrant during these seasons.
Are there any loop routes for road cyclists?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the area are designed as loops. Examples include the Roadbike loop from Button Bay State Park, the Roadbike loop from Ecole Champlain, and the Middlebury Falls – Pulp Mill Covered Bridge loop from Vergennes, offering convenient circular rides.
Where can I park my car when starting a road cycling route?
Button Bay State Park itself offers camping and day-use facilities, which typically include parking areas. Additionally, many routes originate from nearby towns like Vergennes, where public parking options are usually available to start your ride.
Are there any facilities or services available within Button Bay State Park?
Button Bay State Park provides various amenities including camping options, picnic areas, and a nature center that hosts interpretive programs. Visitors can also enjoy swimming in Lake Champlain or at the park's pool, and canoe/kayak rentals are available.
How long are the road cycling routes in this area?
Route lengths vary to suit different preferences. You can find shorter loops like the Roadbike loop from Ecole Champlain at 9.0 miles (14.5 km), or longer rides such as the Middlebury Falls – Pulp Mill Covered Bridge loop from Vergennes, which is 31.2 miles (50.1 km).
What makes road cycling in Button Bay State Park unique?
The unique appeal comes from its integration into the extensive Lake Champlain Bikeway network, offering mostly paved, low-traffic routes. The relatively flat terrain, combined with stunning views of Lake Champlain and both the Adirondack and Green Mountains, provides a distinct and enjoyable cycling experience.
Can I access the Lake Champlain Bikeway from Button Bay State Park?
Yes, Button Bay State Park is strategically located along the Lake Champlain Bikeway, which is a significant draw for road cyclists. This allows for easy access to a vast network of routes spanning hundreds of miles around Lake Champlain.
Most popular routes in Button Bay State Park
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