The best traffic-free bike rides in Mathewson State Forest

There are currently four dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes available in Mathewson State Forest on komoot. These routes are designed to offer peaceful rides away from busy roads, utilizing the forest's quiet woods roads and Class IV roads, which are generally unmaintained and offer varied surfaces suitable for touring bikes with wider tires.

The no-traffic routes in Mathewson State Forest primarily utilize Class IV roads and woods roads. This means you can expect varied surfaces, ranging from gravel and dirt to more rugged conditions. These paths are ideal for touring cyclists equipped with gravel bikes or bikes with wider tires, offering a challenging yet rewarding off-pavement experience through scenic areas.

While the routes within Mathewson State Forest itself can be rugged due to Class IV road conditions, the broader Northeast Kingdom region, where the forest is located, offers more family-friendly options. For example, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is a 93-mile path with a compacted crushed stone surface, largely flat and suitable for various skill levels, including families. Always check route details for specific difficulty before heading out with children.

Mathewson State Forest is managed for wildlife and dispersed recreation, and generally, dogs are permitted on trails and roads within Vermont State Forests. However, it is always recommended to keep dogs leashed to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other users. Please be mindful of varied terrain and potential obstacles when cycling with your dog.

Within Mathewson State Forest, you can discover historical elements such as well-preserved cellar holes and open fields associated with old homesteads, often dotted with apple trees. The forest is also managed for wildlife, offering opportunities to observe white-tailed deer, black bear, ruffed grouse, and wild turkey, enhancing the natural experience during your ride.

Yes, all four no-traffic touring cycling routes currently listed for Mathewson State Forest are circular loops. For example, you could try the Bemis Hill loop from Lyndon, which covers approximately 23 km with moderate difficulty, or the more challenging Bemis Hill loop from Village Sport Shop Trailside, spanning about 77 km.

The best time to go touring cycling in Mathewson State Forest is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are less likely to be covered in snow or excessively muddy. Autumn offers spectacular foliage, making it a particularly scenic time to ride, though fallen leaves can sometimes obscure trail surfaces.

While specific designated parking areas within Mathewson State Forest are not detailed, access to Vermont State Forests typically involves parking at trailheads or designated pull-offs along public roads. For routes like the Bemis Hill loop from East Burke or the Bemis Hill – Darling Hill loop from The Wildflower Inn, you would typically start from nearby towns or accommodations that offer parking facilities.

Mathewson State Forest is located in Caledonia County, Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, which includes several small towns. Lyndon, East Burke, and St. Johnsbury are nearby communities that offer amenities such as cafes, restaurants, and various accommodation options, making them convenient bases for exploring the forest and surrounding cycling networks.

Given the varied terrain of Class IV roads and woods roads, it's advisable to wear comfortable cycling attire suitable for changing weather conditions. Essential gear includes a helmet, gloves, and sturdy cycling shoes. For your bike, ensure you have wider tires (e.g., gravel bike tires), a repair kit, spare tubes, and plenty of water and snacks, as services may be limited along the routes.

Yes, the Mathewson State Forest area is part of the broader Northeast Kingdom, which is renowned for its extensive cycling options. Longer touring journeys can connect to routes like the Cross Vermont Trail or the "Ridges, Rivers, and Rails Overnighter," an 80-mile loop in Caledonia County that combines rail trails, gravel roads, and quiet paved roads, ideal for multi-day touring with suitable tires.