The best traffic-free bike rides in Bear Mountain State Forest

The Wantastiquet River Trailhead – Wantastiquet Trailhead loop from Brattleboro offers a diverse touring cycling experience, blending riverside serenity with a rewarding climb. You'll pedal along the Connecticut River, enjoying views of Brattleboro, before the route gradually ascends towards Mount Wantastiquet. The terrain shifts from easy dirt roads to more challenging uphill sections, culminating in panoramic vistas of the Connecticut River Valley and distant Vermont Mountains.

This moderate 15.0-mile (24.1 km) loop, with 1017 feet (310 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes. Ensure your touring bicycle is suitable for varied surfaces, including unpaved sections. Parking is available at the Wantastiquet River Trailhead; consider an early start, especially on busy days. The route is best enjoyed in spring, summer, or fall, with autumn providing stunning foliage.

This loop provides a unique perspective on the Wantastiquet Mountain Natural Area, showcasing both its gentle riverine landscapes and its more rugged, elevated terrain. It's an excellent option for cyclists seeking a blend of scenic beauty and a moderate physical challenge, offering a taste of the region's diverse outdoor opportunities without committing to the most strenuous mountain biking trails.

If you're seeking a substantial challenge on two wheels, the Green River Covered Bridge loop from Brattleboro offers a rewarding touring cycling experience. This route winds through the picturesque Vermont landscape, providing a sense of journey as you pedal towards the historic Green River Covered Bridge. The terrain demands attention, with a significant amount of climbing that will test your endurance and provide a satisfying workout.

Planning your ride means preparing for a difficult 22.5-mile (36.2 km) journey that includes 1646 feet (502 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 44 minutes. Parking is generally available in Brattleboro, the starting point for this loop. For the best experience, consider cycling during the milder seasons, as the Brattleboro Vermont cycling terrain can be more enjoyable without extreme weather.

This loop stands out among Brattleboro Vermont cycling routes for its blend of physical demand and scenic reward, centered around the charm of a covered bridge. It's an excellent option for cyclists who appreciate a longer, more strenuous ride and want to explore the rural beauty of Windham County. While specific landmarks beyond the bridge are not detailed, the overall atmosphere promises a classic New England cycling adventure.

The Fort Hill Recreational Rail Trail offers a unique touring cycling experience through varied terrain along the Connecticut River. You'll navigate a mix of gravel, crushed stone, and packed earth, with some sections becoming grassy paths or heavily rutted. The route provides scenic river views, glimpses of the former Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Station, and historical markers like old telegraph poles, culminating at the impressive but unpassable Fort Hill trestle bridge.

This moderate 13.2-mile (21.3 km) trail, with 371 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours, is best tackled on a mountain or gravel bike due to its inconsistent surface. It's not ideal for road bikes. Be aware that the trail can be overgrown in summer, as maintenance focuses on snowmobiling, and you might encounter fallen trees after rain. Parking information is generally available at trailheads in Hinsdale, New Hampshire.

Following an old railroad bed, the trail is rich in history, evident in its original stone abutments and the abandoned Fort Hill trestle bridge. It also connects to the Ashuelot Recreational Rail Trail, providing an opportunity to extend your ride. This trail is a good option for cyclists seeking a bit of a challenge and a connection to the region's industrial past, rather than a smooth, fast ride.