The best traffic-free bike rides in Smuggler'S Notch State Park

There are 6 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes in Smuggler'S Notch State Park, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult.

The best time for touring cycling is typically from late spring through early fall. The iconic Smugglers' Notch (Route 108) is closed to vehicles in winter, offering a unique, traffic-free experience, but can be challenging due to snow and ice. Fall foliage season provides breathtaking views, though routes can be busy with sightseers.

Yes, the area offers easy routes suitable for families. A great option is the Idletyme Brewing & PK Coffee – Red Barn Shops loop from Adams Camp, which is 13.1 km long with minimal elevation gain. The Stowe Recreation Path is also a popular 5.3-mile paved trail suitable for all skill levels, offering access to swimming spots and local amenities.

You can expect diverse terrain, from paved paths like the Stowe Recreation Path to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes through green rolling hills. The region is known for its scenic rides past covered bridges, farms, and twisting rivers, all set against stunning mountain backdrops. Some routes, like the Smugglers' Notch Scenic Drive (Route 108), feature sustained gradients and winding roads.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the Stowe Recreation Path and Trapp Family Lodge Loop offers a moderate 20.4 km ride. For a more challenging option, consider the Loomis Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Wiessner Woods, which is 62.3 km long.

The routes offer access to stunning natural features and landmarks. You can expect views of Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, and the dramatic cliffs of Smugglers' Notch. Nearby attractions include Bingham Falls and Moss Glen Falls State Natural Area, offering picturesque waterfalls. The area is also characterized by large boulders and unique rock formations.

Yes, some routes are designed to include local amenities. The Idletyme Brewing & PK Coffee – Red Barn Shops loop from Adams Camp is an easy route that passes by local establishments. The Stowe Recreation Path also provides direct access to restaurants and shops in Stowe.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 25 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning mountain vistas, the quiet and scenic roads, and the diverse range of routes suitable for different fitness levels, especially the unique experience of cycling through the Notch itself.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Loomis Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Wiessner Woods (62.3 km with over 1000m elevation gain) or the Stowe Community Church – Main Street loop from Trapp Family Lodge (35.7 km with over 500m elevation gain) offer significant climbs and rewarding views. The Smugglers' Notch Scenic Drive (Route 108) itself is known for its challenging gradients.

While specific public transport options directly to trailheads may be limited, the region is generally accessible by car. Parking is available at various points, including visitor centers and designated trail access points around Stowe and Smugglers' Notch. It's advisable to check specific parking availability for your chosen route starting point.

Yes, Smugglers' Notch State Park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Beyond cycling, you can access the Long Trail for hiking, explore Bingham Falls, or visit Sterling Pond for fishing and swimming. The area also offers bouldering, and in winter, transforms into a hub for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.