1.
Spice Mountain loop from Marshfield
40.9km
03:47
680m
680m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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The best cycling routes in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 9, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park, you know how quickly the sheer number of options can become overwhelming. It's tough to sift through everything and figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it, and that's exactly why we've put together this guide. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so you can trust this is a curated shortlist of the very best, saving you all the guesswork.
Touring cycling in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park is all about embracing Vermont's wild, undeveloped character. Expect a landscape defined by scenic pond views, rolling fields, and extensive forests, with the central Molly'S Falls Pond (also known as Marshfield Reservoir) as a stunning backdrop. The terrain here is varied, offering everything from smooth graded dirt roads to more challenging unmaintained sections, with plenty of elevation gain to earn those views. While the area is rich with gravel roads and scenic paved routes, many of the standout rides here lean towards the more demanding side, often connecting to broader networks like the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail.
If you only have time for one ride, we'd point you straight to the challenging Public Access Tools and Pump – Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail loop from Coits Pond. At 48.3 miles (77.8 km), it offers a fantastic blend of the region's character, including sections of the famous Lamoille Valley Rail Trail. For those looking for a serious workout with big rewards, the Peacham Café loop from Fosters Pond Access Area Parking is another top favorite, a difficult 46.7 miles (75.1 km) with significant elevation gain through the area's rolling hills. With more than 30 touring cyclists already exploring these routes with komoot, you're in good company.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spice Mountain loop from Marshfield | 40.9 km | 680 m | Hard |
| Peacham Café loop from Fosters Pond Access Area Parking | 75.1 km | 1,510 m | Hard |
| Bayley Hazen Military Road loop from West Hill Pond Dam | 55.0 km | 990 m | Hard |
| Public Access Tools and Pump – Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail loop from Coits Pond | 77.8 km | 780 m | Hard |
| Public Access Tools and Pump – Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail loop from West Danville | 29.9 km | 260 m | Moderate |
| Joe's Pond loop from Keiser Pond Access Area | 37.9 km | 320 m | Moderate |
| Public Access Tools and Pump – Peacham Café loop from Peacham | 36.2 km | 680 m | Hard |
| Peacham Café loop from Peacham | 39.3 km | 690 m | Hard |
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2.
Peacham Café loop from Fosters Pond Access Area Parking
75.1km
07:21
1,510m
1,510m
The Peacham Café loop from Fosters Pond Access Area Parking offers a deep dive into Vermont's picturesque Northeast Kingdom, primarily on unpaved roads. You'll experience sweeping views of rolling hills and farms, passing by natural features like beaver ponds and sugarbushes, and perhaps even spot alpacas. This difficult touring cycling route covers 46.7 miles (75.2 km) with a substantial 4958 feet (1511 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 7 hours and 21 minutes to complete.
Parking is available at the Fosters Pond Access Area, a convenient starting point for this challenging ride. Given the route's length and significant climbs, it's crucial to carry plenty of water and snacks. While the Peacham area is stunning in autumn, be ready for steep ascents throughout the year; this route is best tackled by cyclists with very good fitness.
This loop showcases the quintessential Vermont gravel cycling experience, often featuring terrain similar to the Peacham Fall Fondo. The region is renowned for its rural charm and the opportunity to find routes with epic views, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a blend of natural beauty and agricultural landscapes.
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3.
Bayley Hazen Military Road loop from West Hill Pond Dam
55.0km
05:10
990m
990m
The Bayley Hazen Military Road loop from West Hill Pond Dam offers a demanding touring cycling adventure through Vermont's scenic Northeast Kingdom. Expect a mix of quiet roads, rolling hills, and picturesque farm fields, but be ready for significant stretches of unpaved dirt and gravel. This difficult 34.2-mile (55.0 km) route includes 3244 feet (989 metres) of climbing, taking around 5 hours and 9 minutes to complete. You'll pass sparkling ponds and historical markers, making it a ride for those who appreciate both natural beauty and a physical challenge.
Planning your ride requires preparation for varied surfaces; approximately 68% of the route is unpaved, with some sections being quite rough. This means a touring bicycle equipped for gravel and dirt is essential. While specific parking details for West Hill Pond Dam aren't widely available, ensure you have a reliable starting point and carry enough water and supplies for the duration. The route's challenging nature means it's best suited for experienced cyclists.
This loop traces a portion of one of Vermont's oldest thoroughfares, the Bayley-Hazen Military Road, originally constructed during the Revolutionary War as a supply route. Cycling this historic path allows you to connect with the past, noticing small details and monuments that recall its origins. The diverse character of the road, from paved sections to rough trails, provides an adventurous way to explore this significant piece of American history.
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4.
Public Access Tools and Pump – Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail loop from Coits Pond
77.8km
05:42
780m
780m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.
Public Access Tools and Pump – Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail loop from West Danville
29.9km
02:01
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6.
Joe's Pond loop from Keiser Pond Access Area
37.9km
02:36
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7.
Public Access Tools and Pump – Peacham Café loop from Peacham
36.2km
03:17
680m
680m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8.
Peacham Café loop from Peacham
39.3km
03:27
690m
690m
The Peacham Café loop from Peacham offers a challenging and picturesque touring cycling experience through classic Vermont scenery. You'll navigate predominantly gravel roads, winding past rolling hills, charming farms, and even alpacas, all while enjoying incredible sweeping views. This difficult route covers 24.4 miles (39.3 km) with a substantial 2253 feet (687 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 26 minutes to complete. It's a true test of endurance rewarded with stunning vistas.
Planning your ride means preparing for varied terrain; about 80% of the route is on well-maintained dirt and gravel roads, with some paved sections and potentially rougher Class 4 segments. A gravel bike is ideal for these conditions, ensuring comfort and control. The Peacham Café serves as a community hub and a great spot to start or finish your ride, offering local fare. Fall is an especially popular time to cycle due to the vibrant foliage, but the mixed-surface roads are enjoyable throughout the warmer seasons.
The Peacham area is celebrated in the cycling community, partly due to events like the Peacham Fall Fondo, which utilizes similar challenging gravel roads. The town of Peacham itself is iconic for its beauty and quintessential Vermont charm, frequently featured in photographs. This route provides a taste of the region's challenging climbs and spectacular natural features, making it a notable destination for experienced touring cyclists.
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Tips from the Community
Wenglo
August 30, 2024, Peacham Café
Cute and charming cafe in the adorable village of Peachem, filled with friendly folks who are happy to chat about cycling. Perfect stop for a coffee and lunch on an afternoon ride through the area.
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Adam
July 17, 2020, Lamoille Valley Rail Trail parking and facilities
If you’re hungry you’ll eat anything. Right?
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Adam
July 17, 2020, Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail
This rail trail has to be one of the best I’ve ever ridden. The surface is packed gravel and well kept. The landscape views are beautiful and the nearby scenery, such as the original train cut throughs are spectacular. Fun fun fun. Oh and it saves you riding on RT 2!
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Adam
July 17, 2020, Public Access Tools and Pump
Free public access bike tools and pump available in Danville, right along the most awesome rail trail. Behind the old railway station.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes can I find in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park?
There are 5 touring cycling routes available in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park, offering a range of experiences for cyclists.
What are the typical difficulty levels for touring cycling routes in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park?
The touring cycling routes in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park are primarily challenging, with all 5 routes currently listed as difficult. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and varied terrain, including both hilly sections and rail trail segments.
Are there any family-friendly or beginner touring cycling routes in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park?
Currently, all listed touring cycling routes in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park are rated as difficult. While there are no specific beginner or easy routes, the park's varied terrain might offer shorter, less strenuous sections within longer routes. For a moderate option, consider the Public Access Tools and Pump – Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail loop from West Danville, which covers 18.6 miles (29.9 km).
Where can I park when visiting Molly'S Falls Pond State Park for cycling?
Parking is generally available at access points for the routes. For example, the Peacham Café loop starts from Fosters Pond Access Area Parking, and the Joe's Pond loop begins at Keiser Pond Access Area. Always check specific route details for recommended starting and parking locations.
Are there any loop routes for touring cyclists in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park?
Yes, several touring cycling routes in the park are designed as loops. Examples include the Public Access Tools and Pump – Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail loop from Coits Pond, the Peacham Café loop from Fosters Pond Access Area Parking, and the Spice Mountain loop from Marshfield.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park?
The best time for touring cycling in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the foliage offers beautiful scenic views, especially around the ponds. Winter cycling can be challenging due to snow and ice conditions.
What kind of scenery and viewpoints can I expect on the touring cycling routes?
The routes offer diverse scenery, characterized by several ponds including Molly'S Falls Pond, Joe's Pond, and Coits Pond. You'll experience a mix of natural landscapes, rolling hills, and sections of the Lamoille Rail Trail, providing picturesque views of the water and surrounding forests.
What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park?
The touring cycling routes in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the scenic pond views, the challenging climbs, and the opportunity to explore varied terrain.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting while cycling in the park?
Molly'S Falls Pond State Park, with its ponds and forested areas, provides a natural habitat for various wildlife. Cyclists may have the chance to spot local birds, deer, and other small mammals, particularly during quieter times of the day or on less frequented sections of the trails.
Are there any cafes or amenities along the touring cycling routes?
While the park offers a natural setting, some routes pass near small towns or villages where you might find amenities. For instance, the Peacham Café loop suggests a stop at a cafe. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer routes, as services may not be consistently available.
What is the longest touring cycling route in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park?
The longest touring cycling route is the Public Access Tools and Pump – Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail loop from Coits Pond, which spans 48.3 miles (77.8 km) and typically takes around 5 hours 42 minutes to complete.
Do I need any special permits to cycle in Molly'S Falls Pond State Park?
Generally, no special permits are required for touring cycling on the established routes within Molly'S Falls Pond State Park. However, it's always a good practice to check the official Vermont State Parks website for any updated regulations or specific requirements before your visit.
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