The best gravel rides in Windsor County

Windsor County offers over 60 gravel biking routes, catering to various skill levels. The majority are challenging, with 46 difficult routes, 16 moderate, and 1 easy option.

You'll find diverse terrain, from rolling hills and dense forests to picturesque river valleys. The region is known for its extensive network of gravel roads, often winding past natural landmarks and historical elements like covered bridges.

While many routes are challenging, the area around Brownsville offers options for different skill levels, including family-friendly trails with lower elevation gain and dirt road options. For a moderate ride, consider the Taftsville Covered Bridge – Quechee Covered Bridge loop from Quechee, which is 26.7 km long with less elevation.

Many routes incorporate historical elements like covered bridges, such as the Taftsville Covered Bridge and the Quechee Gorge Bridge. You might also pass by natural features like Quechee Gorge or the serene The Pogue in Woodstock.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Quechee Covered Bridge loop from Quechee is a 31.2 km circular route, and the Silver Lake – Silver Lake loop from Silver Lake State Park offers a 38.2 km ride around the lake.

The gravel biking routes in Windsor County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Users often praise the varied terrain, picturesque scenery, and the blend of challenging climbs and rewarding descents.

For a longer ride, consider the challenging Taftsville Covered Bridge – Woodstock Middle Covered Bridge loop from Windsor Trail, which spans 72.9 km and takes approximately 7 hours 35 minutes to complete. Another substantial option is the Billings Farm & Museum – Carriage Barn Visitor Center loop from George Perkins Marsh Boyhood Home, covering 62.4 km.

Many routes start from towns or parks where parking is available. For instance, the Silver Lake loop starts from Silver Lake State Park, which typically offers parking facilities. Routes originating from places like Quechee or West Windsor also usually have accessible starting points.

Yes, you can find routes that include scenic water bodies. The Crescent Lake – CCC Pond loop from Wilder is a 46 km challenging route that takes you past both Crescent Lake and CCC Pond.

Most gravel bike trails in Windsor County are considered difficult, with 46 out of 63 routes falling into this category. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and varied terrain, offering a good challenge for experienced riders.

While the majority are difficult, there is one easy route available, and 16 moderate options. The Taftsville Covered Bridge – Quechee Covered Bridge loop from Quechee is a moderate 26.7 km ride with less climbing, making it a good choice for those looking for a less strenuous experience.

While specific komoot routes listed don't directly ascend Mount Ascutney, the area around Mount Ascutney and the Connecticut River is rich with cycling opportunities. The mountain itself offers over 35 miles of mountain biking trails within Mt. Ascutney State Park, and a paved parkway leads to scenic overlooks.