The best cycling routes around North Bennington

There are 5 touring cycling routes available around North Bennington. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy rides to more challenging adventures.

You can expect diverse terrain, including rolling hills and significant elevation changes, set against the stunning backdrop of the Green Mountains and Taconic Mountains. Routes often feature a mix of paved and unpaved sections, with scenic views of valleys, rivers like the Walloomsac and Battenkill, and extensive woodlands. Historic covered bridges, such as the Silk Covered Bridge, are also common features.

Yes, there is one easy touring cycling route available. The Bennington Battle Monument loop from Old Bennington is a great option, covering 18.7 km with moderate elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride. The region also offers flatter options like the Bennington Rail Trail and Walloomsac Riverwalk, which are ideal for casual cycling.

For more advanced cyclists, there are 3 difficult touring cycling routes. A challenging option is the Bennington Battle Monument – Vermont Working Farm (Gravel Road) loop from Bennington, which spans 38.2 km with significant elevation gain of almost 700 meters. Another demanding route is the Bennington Battle Monument loop from Bennington, covering 34.4 km with over 550 meters of ascent.

Many routes offer views of iconic landmarks and natural features. You can cycle past the historic Bennington Battle Monument, cross the picturesque Silk Covered Bridge, or explore the Carriage Road (Grove Road). The area also features the Wooden Footbridge and offers views towards Harmon Hill. Routes often incorporate views of working farms, tranquil lakes like Lake Paran, and the scenic Walloomsac and Battenkill Rivers.

Yes, some touring cycling routes in the area incorporate gravel sections, offering a mixed-surface experience. For example, the Bennington Battle Monument – Vermont Working Farm (Gravel Road) loop from Bennington combines paved and gravel roads, providing views of working farms and historic landmarks.

The best time for touring cycling in North Bennington is generally from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty of the Green Mountains and surrounding landscapes is at its peak. Autumn offers particularly stunning foliage views.

All the touring cycling routes listed are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This includes routes like the Bike loop from Bennington and the various Bennington Battle Monument loops, providing convenient circular journeys.

The touring cycling routes around North Bennington vary in distance to suit different preferences. They range from approximately 18.7 kilometers (11.6 miles) for easier loops to about 38.2 kilometers (23.7 miles) for more challenging rides, offering options for both shorter excursions and longer adventures.

While specific ratings are not available for these routes, the region is highly regarded for its diverse terrain, picturesque landscapes, and historical charm. Cyclists often praise the blend of challenging ascents and leisurely trails, the stunning views of the Green Mountains, and the unique character added by historic covered bridges and working farms.