Lake Elmore – Morrisville loop from Craftsbury Academy Woodlot

If you're seeking a truly diverse and challenging touring cycling adventure in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, the Lake Elmore – Morrisville loop from Craftsbury Academy Woodlot delivers. This difficult 53.6 miles (86.3 km) route, with a substantial 4815 feet (1468 metres) of elevation gain, will take you approximately 8 hours to complete. It's an ideal choice for experienced cyclists looking to push their limits on varied terrain and soak in classic Vermont scenery.

What to expect on Lake Elmore – Morrisville loop from Craftsbury Academy Woodlot

This route is a journey through Vermont's picturesque landscape, offering a constantly changing experience. You'll encounter a mix of paved and unpaved roads, including prevalent gravel sections, especially around Craftsbury. The scenery is a major draw, with expansive views of rolling fields, thick evergreen forests, and the serene Lake Elmore, a true focal point. As you approach the Craftsbury Academy Woodlot, expect to transition to more technical single and doubletrack trails, which will add a mountain biking feel to your touring ride. The undulating terrain means frequent short climbs and descents, with some grades exceeding 10 percent, so be prepared for a consistent workout. This loop is best suited for cyclists with good fitness and robust tires capable of handling varied surfaces.

Planning your visit

Given the difficult rating and significant elevation, good physical conditioning is essential for this touring cycling route. While specific parking details aren't provided for the exact loop, starting from the Craftsbury Academy Woodlot area is implied. Be aware that incorporating the Woodlot's trails means you might encounter more technical, unpaved sections that could require dismounting or more robust tires than typical road bikes. The Northeast Kingdom's cycling routes are known for their hilly terrain, so plan your hydration and nutrition accordingly for the 8-hour duration. The region is beautiful in many seasons, but check local conditions, especially for unpaved sections, which can be affected by weather.

Trail details

• Distance: 53.6 miles (86.3 km)
• Elevation gain: 4815 feet (1468 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 8 hours