The best traffic-free bike rides around Middlebury

Middlebury offers a diverse range of terrain, even on its traffic-free road cycling routes. You'll find routes that traverse the rolling farmlands of the Champlain Valley, providing picturesque and often flatter rides. Other routes might include gentle climbs and descents as they skirt the foothills of the Green Mountains, offering more varied elevation. For example, the Huntington Falls – Pulp Mill Covered Bridge loop from Middlebury features over 390 meters of elevation gain, while the Main Street – Middlebury Falls loop from Middlebury is flatter with around 237 meters of elevation.

Yes, several traffic-free road cycling routes in Middlebury pass by charming landmarks and scenic spots. You can cycle past the iconic Pulp Mill Covered Bridge, a historic structure that adds a touch of classic Vermont charm to your ride. Many routes also feature the beautiful Middlebury Falls, a twenty-foot waterfall in the heart of town formed by Otter Creek. The Middlebury College Quad – Middlebury Falls loop from Middlebury offers views of the college campus and the falls.

Yes, Middlebury offers several traffic-free road cycling routes that are suitable for families and cyclists of varying skill levels. Routes categorized as 'easy' are generally more family-friendly, featuring less elevation gain and shorter distances. The Pulp Mill Covered Bridge – Middlebury Falls loop from Middlebury is an excellent easy option, covering about 25 km with moderate elevation, making it enjoyable for a family outing.

All of the traffic-free road cycling routes listed in this guide are circular, meaning they start and end in Middlebury, making them convenient for exploration. This allows you to enjoy the scenery without worrying about arranging transport back to your starting point. Examples include the Middlebury Falls – Main Street loop from Middlebury and the Middlebury College Quad – Middlebury Falls loop from Middlebury.

Middlebury, as a central hub for many of these routes, offers various parking options. Many routes conveniently start from locations within the town, such as near Main Street or the Middlebury College Quad, where public parking is generally available. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and time limits.

The best time for no-traffic road biking in Middlebury is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant, offering views of lush farmlands and the Green Mountains. Fall foliage in September and October provides a particularly scenic experience. While some routes might be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice.

Many of the traffic-free road cycling routes either start in or pass through Middlebury's town center, particularly along Main Street. Here, you'll find a selection of cafes, restaurants, and local shops perfect for a refreshment stop or a meal. The region's historic towns often provide charming spots to pause and refuel during your ride.

This guide features 7 carefully selected no-traffic road cycling routes around Middlebury. These routes range in difficulty from easy to moderate, ensuring options for various skill levels and preferences. The region is known for its extensive network of back roads, offering many more possibilities for quiet cycling.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Middlebury, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's stunning natural beauty, the variety of terrain from rolling farmlands to mountain backdrops, and the opportunity to explore charming historic towns and landmarks like the Pulp Mill Covered Bridge and Middlebury Falls. The peaceful, low-traffic nature of these routes is a significant draw.

While Middlebury itself is not directly on Lake Champlain, its proximity means that some regional cycling routes, including parts of the Lake Champlain Bikeways network, offer expansive views of the lake and the distant Adirondack Mountains. Although not explicitly listed as traffic-free in this guide, the broader area provides opportunities to experience these iconic vistas on quiet roads.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Middlebury cater to a range of abilities. This guide includes 2 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed ride, and 5 moderate routes, which offer a bit more challenge with longer distances or more significant elevation changes. For example, the Middlebury College Quad – Middlebury Falls loop from Middlebury is a moderate route spanning over 58 km with more than 420 meters of ascent.