Experiences
4 ESSENTIAL GRAVEL RIDES
Gravel cycling is not new, but gravel bikes are.
People have been riding bikes on dirt roads since, well, before there were paved roads, but in the last five years gravel cycling has become the darling of the outdoor sports community. A gravel bike is intended for adventure, generally it looks like a drop bar road bike with clearance to run a wider tire at a lower pressure which increases traction and shock absorption, these bikes can conquer unpaved roadways, tractor trails and single track. At one point every bike could travel on dirt, then a cycle cross bikes were developed for off road capabilities, now every major bike company has a gravel bike. The beauty of gravel cycling is freedom and inclusivity. No fancy clothing or feather light frames required, anyone who wants to adventure, and see fewer cars, are welcome.
Similar to the craft beer boom, Vermont has become the epicenter of gravel. The Green Mountains have more dirt roads than paved, ample climbing and disarming scenery. Some of gravel’s biggest names reside in Vermont including World Tour veterans Ted King and Ian Boswell who keep the gravel community envious with their social media accounts of cycling on dirt in Vermont.
Hotel Vermont is uniquely located in an urban gateway to world class gravel. Some of the state’s best riding requires a short cycle through the city or a scenic drive to a launch point. Like most activities in Vermont you are never far from a local eatery, brewery or creamee stand. The following are Hotel Vermont’s favorite gravel cycling adventures, from our front door or a short drive away.
The Causeway and Intervale
This 22 mile ride from our front door is relatively easy by way of very little climbing. The ride starts with 9 miles of bike path along Lake Champlain before arriving on a gravel causeway that splits through Mallett’s Bay. The return trip ventures through woods and technical single track of Burlington’s urban farmland at the Intervale. This ride needs to be on every cyclist’s list when visiting Hotel Vermont.
see the routeEAST CHARLOTTE GRAVEL
East Charlotte has world class gravel riding. Launch from Hotel Vermont and push through 11 miles of paved roads (for the 42 mile round trip) or park at Tenny’s Snack Bar and total 22 miles of pure gravel. These undulating dirt roads provide spectacular views of Camel’s Hump and the spine of the northern Green Mountains without any crushing climbs. Local gravel enthusiasts know Leavensworth (Heavensworth!?) Road is the best 1 mile stretch of riding in the Champlain Valley, but note that this tractor road requires technical ability and big knobby tires!
see the routeEAST CHARLOTTE GRAVEL
East Charlotte has world class gravel riding. Launch from Hotel Vermont and push through 11 miles of paved roads (for the 42 mile round trip) or park at Tenny’s Snack Bar and total 22 miles of pure gravel. These undulating dirt roads provide spectacular views of Camel’s Hump and the spine of the northern Green Mountains without any crushing climbs. Local gravel enthusiasts know Leavensworth (Heavensworth!?) Road is the best 1 mile stretch of riding in the Champlain Valley, but note that this tractor road requires technical ability and big knobby tires!
see the routeRichmond Center (Of it All)
Richmond may have the best pound for pound gravel in the state. Located just 15 miles from Burlington, this small community has it all. Arrive at your launch point before 9:30am on the weekends to grab Sweet Simone’s pastries and coffee (they sell out fast!) and plan on a post ride creemee at Big Spruce. This 22-mile gravel loop features a downhill on Dugway Road past the legendary Huntington Gorge in preparation for a sturdy 900ft climb up Stage Rd, and the loop ends with a flowing single track back into town.
see the routeBristol to Lincoln Leg Burner
This is a classic VT gravel grinder, featuring leg melting climbs and mind melting view of the Green Mountains. Drive down to Bristol and start with breakfast at Mini Factory. Right out of the gates, hop onto Lower Notch Road climb, upon completion you will be welcomed to the Upper Notch Road climb. Once at elevation of 2,600ft (with views of Mount Abe), descend into the mountain town of Lincoln where the gravel roads extend in every direction. Bring your granny gear for this one – it feels up hill both ways.
see the routeBristol to Lincoln Leg Burner
This is a classic VT gravel grinder, featuring leg melting climbs and mind melting view of the Green Mountains. Drive down to Bristol and start with breakfast at Mini Factory. Right out of the gates, hop onto Lower Notch Road climb, upon completion you will be welcomed to the Upper Notch Road climb. Once at elevation of 2,600ft (with views of Mount Abe), descend into the mountain town of Lincoln where the gravel roads extend in every direction. Bring your granny gear for this one – it feels up hill both ways.
see the route