1.
Barnes Hill loop from Waterbury Center State Park
12.9km
01:06
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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The best traffic-free bike rides in Waterbury Center State Park
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 29, 2026
If you have ever tried to plan touring cycling in Waterbury Center State Park, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many routes winding through this beautiful corner of Vermont, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your precious time and effort, and which are just filler. That's exactly why we're here. We've tapped into komoot's community, who have mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best, saving you all the guesswork.
Touring cycling here means embracing the stunning backdrop of the Green Mountains and the expansive Waterbury Reservoir. Expect a delightful mix of rolling hills and flatter sections, with routes often hugging the reservoir's shores and passing through charming areas known for their covered bridges. The terrain offers everything from moderate loops to more demanding long-distance rides, with both paved and unpaved segments. While the park is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts, it's always a good idea to check local conditions, especially in shoulder seasons, as some routes may have seasonal considerations.
If you only do one ride, we'd point you straight to the Barnes Hill loop from Waterbury Center State Park. At 9.5 miles (15.3 km) with moderate difficulty, it's a fantastic introduction to the area, offering picturesque views of the Vermont countryside without being overly strenuous. For those looking for a bit more challenge and a classic Vermont experience, the Barnes Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Waterbury Center State Park, at 16.1 miles (25.9 km), is worth your legs for its scenic beauty and the iconic covered bridge. Dive in and discover why over 100 touring cyclists have already explored these routes with komoot.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barnes Hill loop from Waterbury Center State Park | 12.9 km | 200 m | Moderate |
| Gold Brook Covered Bridge – Idletyme Brewing & PK Coffee loop from Waterbury-Stowe | 49.4 km | 710 m | Hard |
| Waterbury – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Waterbury-Stowe | 41.4 km | 730 m | Hard |
| Waterbury loop from Waterbury-Stowe | 48.0 km | 730 m | Hard |
| Barnes Hill loop from Barnes Hill | 12.8 km | 200 m | Moderate |
| Waterbury loop from Waterbury-Stowe | 30.9 km | 210 m | Moderate |
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Gold Brook Covered Bridge – Idletyme Brewing & PK Coffee loop from Waterbury-Stowe
49.4km
03:53
710m
710m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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3.
Waterbury – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Waterbury-Stowe
41.4km
03:28
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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4.
Waterbury loop from Waterbury-Stowe
48.0km
04:13
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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5.
Barnes Hill loop from Barnes Hill
12.8km
01:05
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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6.
Waterbury loop from Waterbury-Stowe
30.9km
02:24
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
Jamie S.
July 24, 2024, Lintilhac Park (Stowe Recreation Path Access)
Lintilhac Park is a lovely little park behind the Stowe Community Church and is a common access point for the southern end of the Stowe Recreation Path, just north of Main Street, Stowe. The Stowe Recreation Path is a popular, scenic, 5.3-mile paved trail that is open for bikers and walkers, and is groomed in the winter for cross-country skiers. This fantastic trail crosses Little River several times via wooden bridges, has multiple spots for swimming, and offers direct access to many restaurants and shops in Stowe. There is a bike repair station at Lintilhac Park for those who might need it, in addition to parking for the Recreation Path.
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Jamie S.
July 24, 2024, Idletyme Brewing & PK Coffee
A coffee shop and a brewery right across the street from each other! What more can you ask for on a relaxing ride around Stowe? Idletyme Brewing and PK Coffee are two great spots to grab a burger and beer or coffee and pastry depending on your mood (and time of day). Both of these local-favorite spots are right off of the Stowe Recreational Path, making them convenient to stop at and refuel as you explore the area.
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Lisa
January 29, 2024, Barnes Hill
The trees clear out near the top of 1207-foot Barnes Hill, giving you some nice views of the landscape around you. It's a nice climb to get up here, but no so bad that you need quads of steel to make it.
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Jamie S.
May 10, 2023, Chase Park (Stowe Recreation Path Access)
Chase Park is a great little local park near downtown Stowe. It is a common access point for the Stowe Recreation Path, a popular 5.3-mile paved multi-use trail that runs through the town of Stowe. There is parking available here for the Recreation Path as well as a bike repair station for those who might need it.
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Jamie S.
May 10, 2023, Lintilhac Park (Stowe Recreation Path Access)
Lintilhac Park is a lovely little park behind the Stowe Community Church and is a common access point for the southern end of the Stowe Recreation Path. The Stowe Recreation Path is a popular, scenic, 5.3-mile paved trail that is open for bikers and walkers, and is groomed in the winter for cross-country skiiers. This fantastic trail crosses Little River several times via wooden bridges, has multiple spots for swimming, and offers direct access to many restaurants and shops in Stowe. There is a bike repair station at Lintilhac Park for those who might need it, in addition to parking for the Recreation Path.
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Bill deVries
August 10, 2018, Gold Brook Covered Bridge
So my thumb is in the picture. Don’t let that distract you from the quaint covered bridge just outside of Stowe VT that offers you a picture of the Full Vermonty. Also, it’s namesake road has some of the prettiest houses in the area. But be sure to switch to your knobby tires - this, and other dirt roads nearby - are not for the faint of heart with super-thin road tires.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available in Waterbury Center State Park?
There are over a dozen dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in and around Waterbury Center State Park. These routes vary in difficulty, with 8 moderate and 4 difficult options, ensuring there's something for different skill levels.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Waterbury Center State Park?
The best time for touring cycling in Waterbury Center State Park is typically from late spring to early fall. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty of the Green Mountains, including vibrant fall foliage, is at its peak. Winter touring is possible but requires appropriate gear and awareness of seasonal closures or conditions.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in the park?
While the guide focuses on moderate to difficult touring routes, the park itself offers an accessible nature trail along the shoreline of the Waterbury Reservoir, which can be suitable for a leisurely family ride. For dedicated touring, routes like the Barnes Hill loop from Waterbury Center State Park offer a moderate challenge with scenic views, but families should assess the elevation and distance.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic touring routes?
The touring cycling routes in Waterbury Center State Park feature a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. You can expect varying elevation profiles as you navigate the scenic landscapes of the Green Mountains. Routes like the Loomis Hill loop from Waterbury Center State Park involve significant elevation gain, offering rewarding views.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Waterbury Center State Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Barnes Hill loop from Waterbury Center State Park and the longer Loomis Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Waterbury-Stowe.
What are some scenic highlights or landmarks along the no-traffic touring routes?
Cyclists can enjoy panoramic views of the Waterbury Reservoir and the surrounding Green Mountains. The area is known for its serene landscapes and vibrant fall foliage. Longer routes, such as the Gold Brook Covered Bridge – Loomis Hill loop from Waterbury-Stowe, may pass by historic covered bridges, adding to the scenic appeal.
Is there parking available for cyclists at Waterbury Center State Park?
Yes, Waterbury Center State Park offers parking facilities, making it a convenient starting point for your touring cycling adventures. The park is well-equipped for visitors, including those arriving by car with their bikes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Waterbury Center State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil, low-traffic roads, the stunning views of the Waterbury Reservoir and Green Mountains, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the touring routes?
Waterbury Center and the nearby town of Waterbury offer a selection of bike-friendly cafes and pubs where you can refuel and relax after your ride. These establishments often cater to outdoor enthusiasts, providing a welcoming atmosphere.
Can I find accommodation with bike storage near Waterbury Center State Park?
Yes, there are various accommodation options in and around Waterbury Center that are bike-friendly and may offer secure bike storage. It's advisable to check with individual establishments when booking to confirm their specific amenities for cyclists.
Are dogs allowed on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
While Waterbury Center State Park itself has specific rules regarding pets, generally, dogs are allowed on leash in many outdoor areas. For specific touring cycling routes, it's best to check local regulations for each trail or road segment to ensure compliance with dog policies.
What is the longest no-traffic touring cycling route in the area?
One of the longer and more challenging no-traffic touring routes is the Loomis Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Waterbury-Stowe, which spans approximately 49 kilometers (30 miles) and features significant elevation gain.
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