1.
Views of Westfield River – Skedden Property loop from Westfield River Access
57.3km
04:23
910m
910m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
The best traffic-free bike rides in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 26, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan gravel biking in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest, you know how overwhelming the options can be. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – sifting through countless trails to find the real highlights can feel like a ride in itself. That's why we've done the legwork for you.
Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so this guide is your curated shortlist of the ones that truly deliver. We're here to save you the guesswork and point you straight to the best gravel biking experiences this beautiful state forest has to offer.
Gravel biking in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest means embracing challenging routes through a landscape of rolling hills and dense northern hardwood forests, where beech, black cherry, maple, and pine trees dominate. You'll find yourself on dirt access roads, often with rewarding views of the Westfield River or the tranquil Plainfield Pond. While some sections along the river can feel less challenging, the network here truly shines for experienced gravel bikers seeking substantial elevation gain. For the most scenic rides, especially with mountain laurel blooms, we recommend visiting in the warmer months.
If you only do one ride, we'd start with the popular Views of Westfield River – Skedden Property loop from Westfield River Access. This difficult 35.6 miles (57.3 km) route offers fantastic views of the Westfield River and a significant climb that's well worth your legs. For those seeking an even bigger challenge, the Plainfield Pond – East Windsor road loop from Guyette Farm Conservation Area is a demanding 53.3 miles (85.7 km) journey through varied terrain. More than 20 gravel bikers have already explored Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest with komoot – now it's your turn to discover these incredible routes.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Views of Westfield River – Skedden Property loop from Westfield River Access | 57.3 km | 910 m | Hard |
| Gazebo Overlook on North Highland Lake – Lower Highland Lake loop from Goshen | 98.3 km | 1,770 m | Hard |
| Westfield River trail – Views of Westfield River loop from Worthington | 45.8 km | 650 m | Hard |
2.
Gazebo Overlook on North Highland Lake – Lower Highland Lake loop from Goshen
98.3km
07:47
1,770m
1,770m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
3.
Westfield River trail – Views of Westfield River loop from Worthington
45.8km
03:47
650m
650m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
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Tips from the Community
Tyler Sanders
February 28, 2024, Skedden Property
This small natural area is primarily a residential neighborhood, characterized by lush greenery and a pleasing elevation change. It presents an enjoyable and challenging ride to reach this location.
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Alex
January 24, 2024, Indian Oven Rd
Indian Oven Road in California leads through captivating landscapes featuring rolling hills (including Indian Oven hill) and diverse flora. The region's geological features showcase a blend of rock formations and soil types.
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Alex
January 24, 2024, Chesterfield Gorge State Forest views
Cycling along Ireland Street in Chesterfield Gorge State Forest unveils a scenic landscape of wooded beauty. Cyclists traverse dense forests, encountering a mix of hardwood trees such as oak and maple. The route presents a tranquil journey through the forested terrain, creating a serene and nature-rich cycling experience in this Massachusetts locale.
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Alex
January 24, 2024, Westfield River trail
When the ground is dry, this trail is a joy to ride. Fully immersed in the landscape, there is little evidence of humans whilst cycling along it. Look out for the different species of tree and wildlife.
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Alex
January 24, 2024, Gilbert Bliss State Forest & Westfield River views
Cycling through this forest is a real joy with views below to Westfield River. The track is generally good quality with little technical difficulty.
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Alex
January 23, 2024, East Windsor road
This tree lined quiet country road is a joy to cycle on with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A stunning road to explore on the bike.
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Alex
January 23, 2024, Plainfield Pond
Plainfield Pond in Massachusetts offers a calm retreat for visitors and cyclists. Surrounded by wooded landscapes, the pond provides a peaceful setting for a bike ride break. The scenery includes reflective waters and natural views, offering a relaxed environment for birdwatching, quiet contemplation and a dip on a hot summers day.
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AverieOutside
December 21, 2023, Views of Westfield River
The Westfield River is a 78-mile-long river that is a major tributary of the Connecticut River. This spot offers views of a narrow rocky canyon that the river cuts through.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest?
Our guide features three challenging no-traffic gravel bike routes in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful and immersive experience away from busy roads.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic gravel bike trails in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest?
You can expect a diverse landscape with rolling hills, varied flora, and a mix of rock formations and soil types. The region is characterized by northern hardwood forests with beech, black cherry, maple, and pine trees. Some routes may include significant elevation gains, requiring good fitness.
Are there beginner-friendly no-traffic gravel bike trails in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest?
The no-traffic gravel bike routes currently featured in our guide for Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest are generally rated as 'difficult' due to their length and elevation gain. For example, the Views of Westfield River – Skedden Property loop covers over 57 km with more than 900 meters of ascent. Riders should be prepared for challenging conditions.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
The trails offer views of captivating landscapes. You might encounter the peaceful Plainfield Pond, follow sections of the East Branch of the Westfield River, and experience the dense hardwood forests. The nearby Chesterfield Gorge is a significant attraction, and some trails, like the Snowmobile Loop, feature impressive stone walls and views of the gorge valley.
When is the best time of year to gravel bike in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest?
The forest is beautiful year-round, but spring, summer, and fall offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking. The autumn foliage, with its vibrant colors from the oak and maple trees, is particularly scenic. In colder months, some trails are suitable for winter hiking and snowshoeing, but gravel biking conditions may be challenging due to snow and ice.
Are the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest suitable for families or dogs?
Given that the featured no-traffic gravel bike routes are rated as 'difficult' due to their length and elevation, they may not be ideal for young children or casual family rides. For dogs, always ensure they are on a leash and that you adhere to any local regulations regarding pets in state forests. Consider shorter, less strenuous sections if you are with family or dogs.
Where can I park when visiting Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest for gravel biking?
Specific parking information for individual trailheads can often be found on the detailed route pages. For instance, the Plainfield Pond – East Windsor road loop starts near Guyette Farm Conservation Area, which may offer parking. Always check the tour details for the most accurate starting point and parking suggestions.
Is Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest accessible by public transport for gravel bikers?
Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest is primarily accessed by car, as public transport options directly to the forest trailheads are limited. Planning your trip with personal vehicle transport is generally recommended for convenience when bringing a gravel bike.
Do I need any permits to gravel bike in Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest?
Generally, permits are not required for recreational activities like gravel biking within Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest. However, it's always a good practice to check the official Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) website for any updated regulations or specific requirements before your visit.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel bike routes available?
Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike routes in our guide are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the Westfield River trail – Views of Westfield River loop from Worthington, which offers a substantial circular ride through the area's scenic landscapes.
Are there places to eat or stay near Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest?
While Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest itself is a natural area, you can find amenities in nearby towns such as Chesterfield, Cummington, and Huntington, Massachusetts. These towns may offer local cafes, pubs, or accommodation options for visitors looking to extend their stay or grab a bite after a ride.
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