The best gravel rides around North Hyde Park

The gravel bike trails in North Hyde Park, Vermont, offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find crushed-gravel rail trails, unpaved roads, and forested paths. The region is characterized by the scenic Green Mountains and the Lamoille River valley, providing a picturesque backdrop for your rides. Routes range from gentle grades along former railroad corridors, like sections of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, to more challenging climbs with significant elevation changes on other unpaved roads.

Yes, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail (LVRT) is an excellent option for beginners and those seeking gentler rides. As a former railroad corridor, it features mostly flat grades, making it accessible for all skill levels. Approximately 71% of the LVRT has a crushed-gravel surface, ideal for gravel bikes. While specific easy routes aren't detailed in the guide, the LVRT itself provides a great foundation for an enjoyable, less strenuous ride.

Absolutely. The area offers several loop routes. For a moderate experience, consider the Old Railroad Bridge – Dog’s Head Falls loop from Morristown, which is 21.2 miles (34.1 km). If you're looking for a more challenging ride, the Collins Pond – Clear Pond loop from Hyde Park Village covers 35.7 miles (57.4 km) through forested areas and past ponds.

The region is rich in natural beauty. The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail frequently parallels and crosses the beautiful Lamoille River, offering picturesque views. You can also pass by the historic Old Railroad Bridge. The broader area features the stunning Green Mountains, and nearby attractions include Green River Reservoir State Park and Sterling Falls Gorge, known for its cascading waterfalls and unique rock formations.

Yes, several sections of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail are excellent for gravel biking. You can explore the segment from Jeffersonville to Johnson or the section from Johnson to Morrisville. Another notable part is the Long Trail Intersection to Old Mill Park segment. These sections offer the characteristic crushed-gravel surface and gentle grades of the LVRT.

The gravel biking routes around North Hyde Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. Over 20 gravel bikers have already used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic landscapes and the mix of rail trails and unpaved roads that cater to different riding preferences.

The region is particularly vibrant in the fall when the classic Vermont foliage is at its peak, offering stunning views. Spring and summer also provide excellent conditions for riding, with lush forests and pleasant temperatures. While the LVRT is multi-use and accessible in winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, gravel biking is best enjoyed from spring through fall before heavy snows arrive.

Yes, experienced riders looking for a challenge will find several difficult routes. The Old Railroad Bridge – Dog’s Head Falls loop from Johnson is a difficult 25.5 miles (41.1 km) path featuring significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Old Railroad Bridge – Dog’s Head Falls loop from Hyde Park Village, which spans 75.6 km and includes substantial climbing.

Yes, there are routes designed to include local points of interest. For example, the Lost Nation Brewery – Morrisville loop from Hyde Park Village is a moderate 29.7 km route that incorporates a visit to Lost Nation Brewery, offering a great opportunity for a refreshment stop during your ride.

While the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail itself spans 93-95 miles, connecting 18 towns, the immediate North Hyde Park area offers a variety of gravel biking routes. Our guide features 5 distinct routes, ranging from 29.7 km to 75.6 km, providing a good selection of distances and difficulties for exploring the region's gravel roads and trails.