The best road cycling routes in Mount Tom State Forest

By Fede from komoot

Updated June 1, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan road cycling in Mount Tom State Forest, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many routes out there, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it, and we've been there. That's why we've tapped into komoot's incredible community, who have ridden, mapped, and reviewed these roads, to bring you a curated shortlist of the best.

Road cycling in Mount Tom State Forest, nestled in Washington County, New York, is all about embracing the wooded landscapes and rolling hills. This isn't a place for dramatic mountain passes, but rather a charming network of public forest access roads that offer a real sense of escape. You'll find everything from gentle spins to challenging routes with significant elevation gains, making it a versatile spot for different fitness levels.

If you're looking for a serious challenge, the Camden Valley Road – Dead Lake loop from Emmaus House is a demanding 68.2 miles (109.8 km) ride with substantial climbing that's truly worth your legs. For a more balanced, scenic outing, we love the Scotch Hill loop from Cambridge, a moderate 27.2 miles (43.8 km) route that showcases the region's countryside beautifully. With over 70 road cyclists already exploring 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
Camden Valley Road – Dead Lake loop from Emmaus House	110 km	1,200 m	Hard
Scotch Hill loop from Cambridge	43.8 km	400 m	Moderate
Camden Valley Road loop from Cambridge	39.2 km	360 m	Moderate
Battenkill Start Line loop from Cambridge	31.3 km	450 m	Moderate
Battenkill Start Line loop from Cambridge	25.8 km	180 m	Easy

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Camden Valley Road – Dead Lake loop from Emmaus House

110 km

1,200 m

Hard

Scotch Hill loop from Cambridge

43.8 km

400 m

Moderate

Camden Valley Road loop from Cambridge

39.2 km

360 m

Moderate

Battenkill Start Line loop from Cambridge

31.3 km

450 m

Moderate

Battenkill Start Line loop from Cambridge

25.8 km

180 m

Easy

1. Camden Valley Road – Dead Lake loop from Emmaus House

110km

05:47

1,200m

The Camden Valley Road – Dead Lake loop from Emmaus House offers a demanding road cycling experience through Washington County, New York. You'll traverse a landscape that shifts from coastal vistas overlooking Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay to the serene, forested hills surrounding Megunticook Lake. This route is a true test of endurance, featuring significant elevation changes and diverse scenery that rewards persistent riders.

Planning for this difficult 68.2 miles (109.8 km) ride, which includes 3949 feet (1204 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 5 hours and 46 minutes, requires careful preparation. Start early to maximize daylight hours and ensure you carry sufficient water and snacks. The best periods for cycling are typically during pleasant weather, as the route's length makes it susceptible to changing conditions.

This loop is an excellent choice for advanced road cyclists seeking a substantial challenge away from more crowded routes. It provides a blend of maritime charm and inland natural beauty, reminiscent of the varied terrain found in areas like Camden Hills State Park. The route's character makes it a notable option for those looking to explore the region's diverse cycling opportunities.

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2. Scotch Hill loop from Cambridge

43.8km

02:02

400m

The Scotch Hill loop from Cambridge offers a quintessential scenic countryside experience, winding through dense woodlands that give way to open fields. You'll encounter picturesque natural features like limestone bluffs and the Koshkonong Creek, making for a visually engaging ride. The route is characterized by rolling hills, providing a dynamic journey with both climbs and descents, keeping things interesting from start to finish.

This popular local road cycling route begins conveniently from the Village of Cambridge. While mostly paved, be prepared for the possibility of some unpaved segments that could add a bit of extra challenge. It's a moderate ride, so ensure you have good fitness, and remember to carry enough water, especially on warmer days. Spring and fall are often ideal for comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery.

What sets this loop apart is its balanced nature; it's engaging without being overly strenuous for those with reasonable conditioning. You'll tackle notable climbs, including a 1.6-kilometer section with a 4.7% gradient, contributing to the total 1298 feet (396 metres) of elevation gain over 27.2 miles (43.8 km). Expect to complete the ride in about 2 hours and 2 minutes, making it a rewarding option for a solid half-day outing.

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3. Camden Valley Road loop from Cambridge

39.2km

01:55

360m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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4. Battenkill Start Line loop from Cambridge

31.3km

01:47

450m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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5. Battenkill Start Line loop from Cambridge

25.8km

01:10

180m

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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6. Thurber Pond – Battenkill Start Line loop from Shushan Bridge

72.8km

03:06

580m

The Thurber Pond – Battenkill Start Line loop from Shushan Bridge offers a truly unique road cycling experience, blending smooth pavement with challenging unpaved sections. You'll wind through the beautiful Battenkill Valley, past agrarian landscapes and historic communities, even crossing charming covered bridges. Expect a ride that feels like a journey through changing terrain, demanding your full attention and skill.

This moderate 45.3-mile (72.8 km) loop features 1901 feet (579 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 6 minutes. Parking is available at Shushan Bridge. For the best conditions, especially on the dirt roads, plan your ride during dry weather. This route is best suited for cyclists with good fitness and a desire for a mixed-terrain challenge.

What truly sets this route apart is its connection to the iconic Tour of the Battenkill race, often called the "Queen of the Classics" in the US. Riding this loop gives you a taste of that demanding heritage, with steep, punchy climbs like Juniper Swamp Road testing your endurance and bike handling. It's a chance to experience a route celebrated for its authentic racing feel and picturesque rural setting.

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7. Silk Covered Bridge – Bingham Hill loop from North Bennington

53.3km

02:28

580m

The Silk Covered Bridge – Bingham Hill loop from North Bennington offers a rewarding road cycling experience through Vermont's charming countryside. You'll traverse rolling hills and verdant woods, with the historic Silk Covered Bridge over the Walloomsac River serving as a picturesque focal point. This moderate 33.1-mile (53.3 km) route involves a significant 1900 feet (579 metres) of elevation gain, making it a good test of fitness over its estimated 2 hours and 28 minutes duration.

While North Bennington is the natural starting point, specific parking information isn't readily available, so plan accordingly. The route is predominantly paved, but be aware that some segments may be unpaved, which could be a consideration for road bikes. For the most vibrant scenery, consider riding this loop in autumn when the Green Mountain foliage is at its peak.

This loop is a fantastic way to explore the historical significance of the area, featuring the 1840-built Silk Covered Bridge, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It's one of three historic covered bridges along the Walloomsac River, offering a glimpse into local heritage. The varied terrain and historical landmarks make this a standout ride for cyclists seeking more than just mileage.

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8. Bingham Hill – Silk Covered Bridge loop from North Bennington

58.6km

02:45

560m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes are available in Mount Tom State Forest?

Mount Tom State Forest offers 8 distinct road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. These routes utilize the 6.85 miles of public forest access roads within the 1,700-acre forest.

What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Mount Tom State Forest?

Road cycling in Mount Tom State Forest primarily involves wooded landscapes and public forest access roads. You can expect varied topography with potential for elevation changes, offering a mix of rolling terrain and some more challenging climbs.

Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Mount Tom State Forest?

Yes, there is one easy road cycling route available. For a more relaxed ride, consider the Simpson Springs Reservoir – Eldridge Swamp State Forest loop from Village of Cambridge, which covers 24.6 km with moderate elevation gain.

What are some challenging road cycling routes in the area?

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers two difficult routes. The Scotch Hill – Dead Lake loop from Emmaus House is a substantial 109.8 km ride with over 1200 meters of elevation gain, taking nearly 6 hours to complete.

Can I find moderate road cycling routes in Mount Tom State Forest?

Absolutely. The majority of routes in Mount Tom State Forest are moderate, with five options available. A popular choice is the Scotch Hill loop from Village of Cambridge, a 43.8 km path that provides a balanced ride through scenic countryside.

What natural features can I see while road biking in Mount Tom State Forest?

The forest is rich in natural features, offering ample wildlife and diverse wooded landscapes. As you cycle, you'll experience serene environments away from heavy traffic, with opportunities to observe the local flora and fauna.

Are there any loop trails for road cycling in Mount Tom State Forest?

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the Eldridge Swamp State Forest loop from Village of Cambridge is a 39.2 km trail leading through varied wooded landscapes.

What is the best time of year for road biking in Mount Tom State Forest?

While specific seasonal recommendations are not detailed, state forests like Mount Tom typically offer pleasant cycling conditions during spring, summer, and especially autumn when fall foliage provides stunning colors. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Is there parking available for road cyclists at Mount Tom State Forest?

Mount Tom State Forest is one of the few state forests that can be driven through, implying accessibility for vehicles. While specific parking areas for cyclists are not detailed, the presence of public forest access roads suggests parking opportunities at various entry points.

Are there any cafes or pubs near Mount Tom State Forest for a post-ride stop?

The region around Mount Tom State Forest, particularly near towns like Cambridge, may offer local establishments. While not directly within the forest, nearby villages can provide options for refreshments after your ride.

What are the road surfaces like for cycling in Mount Tom State Forest?

The routes primarily utilize public forest access roads. These are generally drivable, suggesting a mix of paved and potentially well-maintained unpaved surfaces suitable for road cycling, though conditions can vary.

Are there any viewpoints along the road cycling routes in Mount Tom State Forest?

While specific named viewpoints are not highlighted, the varied topography and wooded landscapes of Mount Tom State Forest offer numerous scenic spots and vistas, especially from higher elevations, providing picturesque views throughout your ride.

The best road cycling routes in Mount Tom State Forest

If you only do 3 of these routes

Compare these routes at a glance

1.

Camden Valley Road – Dead Lake loop from Emmaus House

2.

Scotch Hill loop from Cambridge

3.

Camden Valley Road loop from Cambridge

4.

Battenkill Start Line loop from Cambridge

5.

Battenkill Start Line loop from Cambridge

6.

Thurber Pond – Battenkill Start Line loop from Shushan Bridge

7.

Silk Covered Bridge – Bingham Hill loop from North Bennington

8.

Bingham Hill – Silk Covered Bridge loop from North Bennington

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Thurber Pond – Battenkill Start Line loop from Shushan Bridge	72.8 km	580 m	Moderate
Silk Covered Bridge – Bingham Hill loop from North Bennington	53.3 km	580 m	Moderate
Bingham Hill – Silk Covered Bridge loop from North Bennington	58.6 km	560 m	Moderate