The best traffic-free bike rides around Amherst

There are several dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Amherst, with this guide featuring 4 curated routes. These range from moderate to difficult, offering diverse experiences for gravel cyclists looking to avoid cars.

The prime seasons for gravel biking in the Amherst region are typically from August through October, and potentially into early November. In dry years, late April to mid-May also offers excellent conditions. These periods generally provide pleasant weather and vibrant natural scenery.

While the routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the broader Amherst area offers options like sections of the Norwottuck Rail Trail. This popular trail, though mostly paved, includes packed dirt and crushed stone sections suitable for hybrid or gravel bikes, providing an easy, family-friendly ride with scenic views.

The no-traffic gravel trails in Amherst offer a variety of scenic views. You can expect to ride through diverse woodlands, along river valleys, and past wetlands. Routes like the Fort River Bridge – Mount Lincoln loop from Amherst can lead to panoramic vistas, especially from higher elevations like Mount Lincoln. The region is known for its natural beauty, including the Connecticut River and the Pioneer Valley.

Yes, the region has several natural water features. Puffer's Pond, north of Amherst, is encircled by trails and is a hub for recreational activities. While not a waterfall, the area around The Drake Passage route (an overnighter through Wendell State Forest) is noted for its deep woodlands with abundant streams and the West Branch of the Swift River, offering opportunities for swimming.

The no-traffic gravel routes in Amherst are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, immersive experience of riding through diverse landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding terrain, and the opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, several routes pass by or near notable landmarks. For instance, the Fort River Bridge – Topping Farm Conservation Area loop from Amherst is named after the Fort River Bridge itself. The wider area also features the scenic Norwottuck Rail Trail Bridge, offering expansive views of the Connecticut River.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without needing a shuttle. Examples include the Mill River – Atkins Reservoir loop from North Amherst, which offers a moderate 21 km ride.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. For routes starting from Amherst or North Amherst, you can often find public parking in town centers or designated trail access points. For areas like Puffer's Pond, there are specific parking lots available. Always check local signage for parking regulations.

Many conservation areas and trails in the Amherst region, such as those around Puffer's Pond and Amethyst Brook Conservation Area, are dog-friendly, usually requiring dogs to be on a leash. However, specific regulations can vary by park or trail section, so it's always best to check the local rules for the particular route you plan to ride.

For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Fort River Bridge – Topping Farm Conservation Area loop from Amherst are rated as difficult. These routes often feature significant elevation changes and cover longer distances, providing a demanding yet rewarding gravel biking experience through the region's varied terrain.

Beyond the well-known trails, Amherst and Hampshire County are rich with numerous other gravel roads and off-road opportunities, many maintained by local conservation organizations. These often highlight natural features like big trees and wildflowers, offering a chance to discover quieter, less-trafficked paths. The Amethyst Brook Conservation Area, for example, offers well-maintained trails through diverse ecosystems, some of which can be technical and rocky.