The best traffic-free bike rides in Chittenden County

Chittenden County offers a wide selection of no-traffic gravel bike trails, with over 60 routes available on komoot. These range from easy, scenic rides to more challenging, longer adventures, ensuring there's something for every gravel biking enthusiast.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain on Chittenden County's gravel trails. The region features everything from smooth dirt paths to more challenging, chunky unmaintained roads. Many routes traverse rolling hills, offering varied elevation changes and scenic views through forests, fields, and along the lake.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. The Island Line Trail is particularly popular, offering a unique experience across Lake Champlain with stunning views. Its relatively flat and well-maintained surface makes it ideal for riders of all ages. The Burlington Greenway also provides a scenic and accessible option for family outings.

Many no-traffic gravel routes in Chittenden County offer breathtaking views and access to natural beauty. You can enjoy stunning vistas of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains, especially from areas like Mount Philo State Park or Red Rocks Park. The Waterfront Park in Burlington provides excellent lake access and views. The region's extensive gravel roads also pass through picturesque farms and forests, offering a true Vermont experience.

For those seeking longer adventures, Chittenden County has several extensive gravel routes. The Barnes Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Preston Pond Conservation Area is a challenging, long-distance option spanning over 139 km. Another significant ride is the Gillett Pond – Cross Vermont Trail loop from Winooski River Bridge, which covers nearly 86 km with substantial elevation.

Yes, Chittenden County and its surrounding areas are known for their charming covered bridges. The Three Covered Bridges loop is a fantastic option that specifically highlights these historic landmarks, offering a scenic and culturally rich gravel biking experience.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic gravel biking in Chittenden County, with an average score of 4.875 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the quiet, scenic nature of the routes, the diverse landscapes from lake views to rolling hills, and the feeling of immersion in Vermont's natural beauty away from vehicle traffic.

Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers looking for a challenge, routes like the Barnes Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Preston Pond Conservation Area and the Gillett Pond – Cross Vermont Trail loop from Winooski River Bridge offer significant distances and considerable elevation gains, testing both endurance and skill on varied gravel surfaces.

The best time for gravel biking in Chittenden County is typically from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the trails are in prime condition. However, some trails, particularly those that are well-maintained, can be enjoyed year-round, with winter offering opportunities for snow biking or cross-country skiing on certain paths.

Beyond the natural beauty, some routes offer glimpses into the region's history. The Island Line Trail, for instance, is built on a former Rutland Railroad line, providing a unique historical context to your ride. Additionally, routes featuring covered bridges, such as the Three Covered Bridges loop, connect you with Vermont's rich architectural heritage.

Many trailheads and popular starting points for gravel routes in Chittenden County offer designated parking areas. For example, the Island Line Trail has access points with parking in Burlington and Colchester. For routes like the Huntington Gorge – Gillett Pond loop from Richmond, you can typically find parking in or near the towns mentioned in the route name, often at public parks or designated trail access points.