1.
Warren Covered Bridge – Appalachian Gap loop from Battell Trail Trailhead
60.0km
04:40
1,310m
1,310m
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 Breadloaf Wilderness
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 5, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling in Breadloaf Wilderness, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many roads and trails, it's hard to tell which routes are genuinely worth the effort and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed countless routes, and we've distilled that collective wisdom into a curated shortlist of the ones truly worth your legs. We're here to save you the guesswork.
Breadloaf Wilderness, nestled in Vermont's Green Mountains, offers a robust landscape for touring cyclists. While mechanical transportation is generally prohibited within the designated wilderness boundaries, the scenic roads encircling the area provide diverse and engaging cycling experiences. Expect forested roads, rolling hills, and significant elevation changes, ranging from moderate rides to challenging climbs that will test your fitness. The best time of year for biking Breadloaf Wilderness is generally from late spring through fall, when the roads are clear and the Green Mountains are at their most vibrant.
If you're looking for a perfect introduction to the area's charm, we'd start with the Great Eddy Covered Bridge – Warren Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort. At 20.3 miles (32.7 km), it's a moderate ride through scenic countryside that offers a taste of what makes this region special. For those seeking a real challenge and incredible views for their effort, the Warren Covered Bridge – Appalachian Gap loop from Battell Trail Trailhead is a difficult 37.3 miles (60.0 km) path that climbs through mountainous terrain with significant elevation gain. With more than 40 touring cyclists having explored these routes on komoot, you can trust you're in good company.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warren Covered Bridge – Appalachian Gap loop from Battell Trail Trailhead | 60.0 km | 1,310 m | Hard |
| Great Eddy Covered Bridge – Warren Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort | 32.7 km | 560 m | Hard |
| Pine Brook Covered Bridge – Warren Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort | 46.2 km | 960 m | Hard |
| Dana Hill loop from Sugarbush Resort | 20.2 km | 470 m | Hard |
| Bike loop from Ripton | 30.3 km | 500 m | Hard |
| Lincoln Woods loop from Baldwin Creek | 16.0 km | 270 m | Moderate |
| Middlebury Water Supply loop from Lincoln | 31.2 km | 550 m | Hard |
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2.
Great Eddy Covered Bridge – Warren Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort
32.7km
02:24
560m
560m
Embark on a memorable touring cycling adventure through Vermont's Mad River Valley with the Great Eddy Covered Bridge – Warren Covered Bridge loop. This difficult route, spanning 20.3 miles (32.7 km) with 1838 feet (560 metres) of elevation gain, offers a dynamic ride through varied terrain, including challenging hills and sweeping views of the Green Mountains from East Warren Road. Expect a mix of paved and potentially unpaved sections, guiding you past picturesque farms and along the Mad River, all within an estimated 2 hours and 23 minutes.
Starting from the Sugarbush Resort area, this loop is ideal for cyclists with strong fitness looking for a rewarding day out. Plan your visit during the warmer months to best enjoy the scenic beauty and ensure optimal road conditions. Warren Village provides a perfect opportunity for a mid-ride break, offering local shops and eateries to refresh before continuing your journey.
This route uniquely connects two historic landmarks: the 1833 Great Eddy Covered Bridge in Waitsfield and the 1880 Warren Covered Bridge, both iconic symbols of Vermont's heritage. Beyond the bridges, the ride showcases the region's natural beauty, with forested peaks and river valleys, and even the chance to spot a round barn or a winery, making it a quintessential Vermont experience.
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3.
Pine Brook Covered Bridge – Warren Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort
46.2km
04:03
960m
960m
Embark on a challenging yet incredibly scenic touring cycling adventure with the Pine Brook Covered Bridge – Warren Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort. This difficult 28.7-mile (46.2 km) route winds through Vermont's Mad River Valley, offering stunning views of forested peaks, river valleys, and historic covered bridges. You'll cycle past classic farms and dense forests, encountering both paved and unpaved segments, with the iconic Pine Brook Covered Bridge and Warren Village Covered Bridge serving as charming highlights.
Starting from Sugarbush Resort, this loop demands good fitness due to its significant 3151 feet (960 metres) of elevation gain, which typically takes around 4 hours and 3 minutes to complete. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the resort area generally provides convenient access. Plan your ride during the warmer months to fully enjoy the varied terrain and quiet countryside, ensuring you're prepared for substantial climbs and descents.
The primary draw of this route is the opportunity to experience Vermont's iconic covered bridges, which are central to the state's heritage and charm. The Mad River Valley is renowned for its diverse cycling experiences, and this loop perfectly combines natural beauty with a rewarding physical test. It's an excellent choice for touring cyclists who appreciate historic landmarks and a robust workout amidst classic New England scenery.
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4.
Dana Hill loop from Sugarbush Resort
20.2km
01:49
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.
Bike loop from Ripton
30.3km
02:41
500m
500m
The Bike loop from Ripton offers a true taste of Vermont touring cycling, winding through a mix of dirt roads and paved sections. You'll pedal past rolling hills, wildflower-filled pastures, and potentially stunning fall foliage, with access to the expansive Moosalamoo Region of the Green Mountain National Forest. Keep an eye out for rugged cliffs, scenic vistas, and tranquil mountain lakes as you navigate this challenging route. It's a ride that rewards those who appreciate varied terrain and natural beauty.
This difficult 18.8-mile (30.3 km) loop features a substantial 1632 feet (497 metres) of elevation gain, requiring good fitness and taking approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete. Many Ripton cycling routes, including this one, often start and end near the Ripton Country Store, which can be a convenient spot for parking and pre-ride provisions. Be prepared for mixed surfaces and significant climbs throughout the journey.
The Ripton area is a hub for diverse cycling, known for its extensive gravel routes and access to the Green Mountains. This particular loop provides a glimpse into the Moosalamoo Region's 22,000 acres, an area rich with natural features like streams and waterfalls. It's an excellent choice for experienced touring cyclists looking for a robust workout amidst classic Vermont scenery.
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6.
Lincoln Woods loop from Baldwin Creek
16.0km
01:21
270m
270m
The Lincoln Woods loop from Baldwin Creek offers a captivating touring cycling adventure through a landscape rich with natural beauty. You'll pedal past dense forests, impressive glacial boulders, and rocky outcrops, with the serene Olney Pond often coming into view. The route combines paved sections with old woods roads and double tracks, providing a varied and engaging experience for cyclists who enjoy a mix of surfaces.
This moderate 10.0-mile (16.0 km) ride, with 883 feet (269 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete. While some parts can be hilly, it's well-suited for gravel or hybrid bikes. The park is generally accessible, but be prepared for varied terrain. It's a great option for a rewarding ride any time of year, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Lincoln Woods State Park is renowned for its diverse trail network, a legacy of its past as farmland and an experimental forest. This history has created an "unending variety of trails to explore," making it one of Rhode Island's most enjoyable riding spots. The park's unique geological formations, including giant glacial boulders, also attract rock climbers, adding another layer to its natural appeal.
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7.
Middlebury Water Supply loop from Lincoln
31.2km
02:45
550m
550m
The Middlebury Water Supply loop from Lincoln offers a demanding touring bicycle experience through Vermont's diverse landscape. You'll pedal through picturesque forested areas, alongside rivers, and across open agricultural lands, soaking in postcard-perfect New England beauty. The route is known for its challenging mountain passes, particularly the Lincoln Gap, which features sections as steep as 24% and is considered one of the steepest paved miles in the U.S. This ride is a true test of endurance, rewarding cyclists with superb mountain views, especially vibrant during the fall foliage season.
This difficult 19.4-mile (31.2 km) route, with 1803 feet (549 metres) of elevation gain, is best suited for cyclists with very good fitness, taking approximately 2 hours and 44 minutes. While primarily on paved surfaces, be ready for some unpaved or gravel segments that add to the adventure. Starting from Lincoln, you'll want to ensure your bike is in top condition for the significant climbs. Always check local weather and road conditions before heading out, especially if you're tackling the Middlebury Water Supply loop elevation profile in cooler months.
The Middlebury area is renowned for its blend of challenging mountain passes and scenic routes, making it a prime destination for touring cyclists. Beyond the physical challenge, the region boasts charming covered bridges and classic Vermont barns, enhancing the riding experience. The opportunity to encounter both paved and gravel sections adds to the touring appeal, offering a varied ride that showcases the natural features of the Middlebury Water Supply loop and the surrounding Green Mountains.
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Tips from the Community
Wenglo
August 26, 2024, Pine Brook Covered Bridge
Avoid highway 100 by taking this lovely side road from Pine Brook Covered Bridge up almost to Moretown
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Natalie
December 22, 2023, Great Eddy Covered Bridge
Great Eddy is the oldest covered bridge still in operation in Vermont. It was built in 1833 and to this day is one of the main routes in and out of Waitsfield.
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Natalie
December 22, 2023, Pine Brook Covered Bridge
Built in 1855, Pine Brook Covered Bridge stands now as it did nearly 180 years ago. Unlike other covered bridges in Vermont, this one hasn't required any reinforcing and will happily take you and your bike across the water, as it would have done for cyclists all that time ago.
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Andrus
November 24, 2023, Appalachian Gap
Located in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Appalachian Gap is a popular spot for cyclists, motorcyclists, and hikers. The views across the gap of the Champlain Valley & Adirondack Mountains are excellent.
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Lisa
September 22, 2023, Appalachian Gap
The Appalachian Gap marks the divide between two different drainage systems, although both eventually feed into Lake Champlain. In more practical terms, this gap is a wonderfully easy-access spot to enjoy views of Lake Champlain, the Champlain Valley, and the Adirondack Mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is touring cycling permitted within the Breadloaf Wilderness boundaries?
No, touring cycling is generally not permitted within the designated Breadloaf Wilderness boundaries. As a federally designated wilderness area, mechanical transportation, including bicycles, is prohibited to preserve its untouched character. However, the surrounding region offers numerous road biking and cycling routes that lead to the edges of the wilderness, allowing cyclists to experience the area's scenic beauty.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Breadloaf Wilderness region?
There are 11 touring cycling routes available in the Breadloaf Wilderness region, offering diverse experiences for cyclists. These routes primarily explore the scenic roads and landscapes surrounding the wilderness area.
What kind of terrain and difficulty can I expect on touring cycling routes near Breadloaf Wilderness?
The touring cycling routes in the Breadloaf Wilderness region are characterized by the rugged terrain of Vermont's Green Mountains, featuring dense hardwood and boreal forests. You can expect significant elevation changes, with 3 moderate routes and 8 difficult routes. Routes often include forested roads and rolling hills, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, several circular routes are available for touring cyclists. For example, you can try the Great Eddy Covered Bridge loop from Warren, a moderate 14.5-mile ride, or the more challenging Warren Covered Bridge – Appalachian Gap loop from Battell Trail Trailhead, which spans 37.3 miles with significant elevation gain.
What are some notable landmarks or scenic points along the cycling routes?
While cycling is restricted within the wilderness itself, routes around the area offer views of the Green Mountains' layered ridgelines. The region is known for its historic covered bridges, such as the Great Eddy Covered Bridge and the Warren Covered Bridge, which are often featured on popular routes like the Pine Brook Covered Bridge – Warren Covered Bridge loop from Sugarbush Resort.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in the Breadloaf Wilderness region?
The region is particularly stunning during the fall foliage season, offering vibrant colors. While specific cycling conditions vary, the area is generally best explored from late spring through early fall. Winter touring cycling is not typically recommended due to snow and ice, though primitive cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular on trails within the wilderness.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling options in the Breadloaf Wilderness area?
Given the rugged terrain and significant elevation changes, most routes in this region are rated moderate to difficult. There are no routes specifically designated as easy in the provided data, suggesting that routes might be more suitable for families with older children or those accustomed to more challenging rides. Always check the route details for distance and elevation before heading out.
Can I bring my dog on touring cycling routes near Breadloaf Wilderness?
While the wilderness area itself has specific regulations regarding pets, the touring cycling routes are on public roads outside the wilderness boundaries. Generally, dogs are allowed on leashes on public roads, but it's always best to check local regulations for specific areas or any private land you might traverse. Be mindful of traffic and other cyclists.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in the Breadloaf Wilderness region?
Many routes start from towns or resorts in the surrounding area, such as Warren or Sugarbush Resort, where parking facilities are typically available. For example, the Dana Hill loop from Sugarbush Resort begins from a location likely to have parking. Always check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking information.
Are there cafes or pubs near the touring cycling routes?
The routes are situated in the broader region surrounding the Breadloaf Wilderness, which includes towns like Warren and Ripton. These towns offer amenities such as cafes and pubs where you can refuel. For instance, if you're cycling the Bike loop from Ripton, you'll find options in Ripton itself.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling in the region?
The Breadloaf Wilderness and its surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, moose, and various bird species. While cycling on roads, encounters are less common than when hiking deep within the wilderness, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and respect wildlife from a distance.
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