The best traffic-free bike rides in Bennington County

Bennington County offers a good selection of routes for gravel biking, with over 10 curated no-traffic trails. These routes range in difficulty from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The best time for gravel biking in Bennington County is typically from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the unpaved roads are in good condition. Fall offers spectacular foliage views, making it a particularly scenic time to ride.

While many of the curated routes are rated moderate to difficult, the Gravel loop from Greendale Campground is a moderate option that might be suitable for families or beginners looking for a shorter ride. It covers about 17 km with less elevation gain compared to other trails. The Bennington Area Trail System (BATS) also offers beginner-friendly options like "Carriage Road" for those seeking easier terrain.

Bennington County's gravel trails wind through diverse and picturesque landscapes. You can expect rolling hills, verdant forests, and pastoral settings with views of agricultural fields in the Walloomsac River Valley. Many routes offer stunning backdrops of the Green Mountains, providing a true Vermont outdoor experience.

Yes, several routes pass by or are near interesting natural features. For instance, the longer Hapgood Pond – Weston Old Mill Museum loop from Stratton Mountain will take you past scenic areas. You can also find highlights like Equinox Pond, Lookout Rock, and the Chiselville Covered Bridge in the wider Bennington County area, which might be accessible from or near some gravel routes.

The Bennington Battle Monument – Vermont Working Farm (Gravel Road) loop from Bennington is rated as difficult. It covers approximately 39 km and involves a significant elevation gain of around 700 meters, offering a challenging ride with rewarding views.

The Townshend Reservoir loop from Stratton Mountain is a challenging and extensive gravel ride. It spans nearly 73 km with an elevation gain of over 1,400 meters, making it suitable for experienced gravel bikers looking for a long and demanding adventure through varied terrain.

Parking availability varies by route. Many routes, especially those starting from towns or trailheads, will have designated parking areas. For routes like the Gravel loop from Greendale Campground, parking would typically be available at or near the campground. For routes originating from Stratton Mountain, resort parking facilities are usually an option. It's always advisable to check the specific route details on Komoot for suggested starting points and parking information.

While this guide focuses on individual no-traffic routes, Bennington County's extensive network of unpaved roads and connection to the Green Mountain National Forest offers potential for longer, self-planned multi-day adventures. Routes like the Hapgood Pond – Weston Old Mill Museum loop from Stratton Mountain (over 126 km) or the Weston Old Mill Museum – Hapgood Pond loop from Hapgood Pond (over 77 km) provide significant mileage for a full day's ride, and can be linked with other segments for extended tours.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Bennington County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's quiet, scenic unpaved roads, the challenging climbs, and the stunning natural beauty of the Green Mountains and surrounding forests. The low traffic on these routes is consistently highlighted as a major draw.