The best traffic-free bike rides in Camels Hump State Forest

Our guide features 5 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Camels Hump State Forest. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful cycling experience away from busy roads, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Green Mountains.

The terrain in Camels Hump State Forest is diverse, ranging from rolling unpaved roads to more challenging sections. You can expect significant elevation gains, with routes like the Roxbury Gap – Pine Brook Covered Bridge loop featuring over 1500 meters of ascent. Some sections may require knobby tires and good climbing skills, reflecting the area's reputation as a gravel biker's paradise.

While many routes in Camels Hump State Forest are rated as difficult due to significant elevation and distance, the region does offer diverse terrain. For families, it's important to consider the difficulty ratings. The Gravel loop from Huntington Center is rated as moderate, making it a potentially more accessible option, though still requiring a good level of fitness.

Camels Hump State Forest is generally dog-friendly, but specific rules may apply to different trail sections or within the State Park boundaries. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them. It's advisable to check local regulations for any specific trail you plan to ride to confirm dog policies.

The routes offer stunning views of the Green Mountains and the iconic Camel's Hump peak. You might encounter picturesque covered bridges, such as the Pine Brook Covered Bridge mentioned in the Great Eddy Covered Bridge – Pine Brook Covered Bridge loop. The area is rich in natural beauty, including forests and waterways like the Winooski River, which borders the northern slope of Camel's Hump.

The best time for gravel biking is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October) when trails are clear of snow and ice. Vermont's fall foliage offers spectacular views. Winter biking is possible, but conditions can be challenging with snow and ice, requiring appropriate gear and experience.

Parking is available at various trailheads and access points around Camels Hump State Forest. Specific parking details often depend on the starting point of your chosen route. For example, routes starting from Sugarbush Resort or Huntington Center will have designated parking areas. Always check the route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

Yes, the towns surrounding Camels Hump State Forest, such as Richmond, Waterbury, and Montpelier, offer a variety of cafes, pubs, and accommodations. These towns are popular hubs for outdoor enthusiasts and provide excellent options for pre- or post-ride refreshments and overnight stays.

The duration varies significantly based on the route's length and elevation. Our featured routes range from approximately 2 hours for shorter, moderate loops like the Gravel loop from Huntington Center, to over 4.5 hours for longer, more challenging rides such as the Roxbury Gap – Pine Brook Covered Bridge loop. Always check the estimated duration on the komoot tour page to plan accordingly.

Many of the routes in Camels Hump State Forest are rated as difficult, indicating significant challenges. Expect steep climbs, potentially technical descents, and long distances. Sections like Leavensworth Road are known for their technical difficulty, and some routes may even require pushing your bike on certain parts. Good fitness and appropriate gear, including knobby tires, are recommended for these advanced trails.

Public transport options directly into the heart of Camels Hump State Forest are limited. Most visitors typically drive to access trailheads. However, some regional bus services might connect to nearby towns like Richmond or Waterbury, from which you would need to cycle or arrange further transport to reach specific starting points for the gravel trails.