The best traffic-free bike rides around Montpelier

There are 18 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Montpelier, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 9 moderate routes, and 8 more challenging options to explore the region's scenic landscapes.

Montpelier's no-traffic routes offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find paved multi-use paths, quiet two-lane roads, and extensive networks of unpaved gravel roads. The landscape includes river valleys, forested areas, and rolling hills, with some routes featuring significant elevation changes into the Green Mountains for those seeking a challenge.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The Small Falls loop from Montpelier is a moderate option at just over 9 km, offering a pleasant ride. Additionally, sections of the Cross Vermont Trail, like the Siboinebi Recreation Path, are paved and offer a car-free experience, perfect for a relaxed family outing.

Many of Montpelier's outdoor trails, including some cycling routes, are dog-friendly, especially those on multi-use paths or quiet gravel roads. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Ensure your dog is on a leash and you carry waste bags to maintain trail etiquette.

The routes often follow the scenic Winooski and North Branch rivers, offering beautiful water views. You'll also encounter picturesque forested areas, rolling farmlands, and historic covered bridges. Hubbard Park, easily accessible from the city, provides great views, while North Branch River Park features wetlands and diverse wildlife. For a specific route with natural beauty, consider the Small Falls – Beautiful Barn loop from Montpelier.

Montpelier is a four-season destination, but for touring cycling, late spring through early fall (May to October) generally offers the most pleasant weather. During these months, the trails are typically clear, and the scenery is vibrant, from lush greenery to stunning autumn foliage. Always check local weather conditions before your ride.

For experienced cyclists seeking longer, no-traffic routes, the Montpelier area delivers. The Sodom Pond – Adamant Co-op General Store loop from Montpelier is a challenging 61.6 km ride with significant elevation gain. Sections of the Cross Vermont Trail also offer extended, varied terrain for multi-hour tours.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and designated access points for popular routes like the Cross Vermont Trail and those around Hubbard Park or North Branch River Park. Montpelier itself offers various parking options, and many routes start directly from the town, allowing you to cycle from your accommodation.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Winooski West Path – Junction Road loop from Montpelier offers a moderate 29 km circular ride. The Montpelier Loop, a longer 76-mile ride, also provides a comprehensive circular tour through the region.

The Montpelier area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, scenic roads, the diverse terrain from river valleys to rolling hills, and the abundance of car-free or low-traffic options that allow for a peaceful and immersive cycling experience.

Absolutely. The Winooski West Path, a 2.6-mile paved multi-use trail, offers a scenic and mostly flat car-free ride along the Winooski River. The Siboinebi Recreation Path, part of the Cross Vermont Trail, is another excellent paved option, providing a safe and enjoyable experience away from vehicle traffic.