The best road cycling routes around St. Johnsbury

Road cycling around St. Johnsbury features a diverse landscape of rolling hills and dense forests, characteristic of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. You'll encounter varied terrain, including sections of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, which offers a mix of smooth gravel and pavement, alongside routes with significant elevation gains through the region's picturesque countryside.

While many routes in the area feature challenging elevation, the region does offer options for varying skill levels. The Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail – Dole Hill loop is a moderate 41.6-mile path that incorporates sections of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, providing a less strenuous experience compared to some of the more difficult routes.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, St. Johnsbury offers several difficult long-distance routes. The Littleton – Littleton Covered Bridge loop is a substantial 133.7-mile trail with significant elevation, often taking over 10 hours to complete. Another difficult option is the Sarah Moores Pond loop from Harvey's Lake, which covers 55.2 miles with considerable climbing.

Yes, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail begins or ends in St. Johnsbury. A popular 1.5-mile section within St. Johnsbury, known as the 'Three Rivers Bike Path,' is considered the eastern starting point of this 93-mile mixed-use recreational trail. Routes like the Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail – Dole Hill loop incorporate parts of this scenic trail.

Road cycling routes in St. Johnsbury offer views of Vermont's natural beauty, including rolling hills, dense forests, and rivers such as the Passumpsic, Moose, and Sleepers. While not directly on road cycling routes, nearby attractions like Observatory Knob offer panoramic views of the surrounding vista, including Burke Mountain and the White Mountains, which can be enjoyed as part of a broader itinerary.

Yes, the area features several loop routes for road cyclists. Examples include the challenging Sarah Moores Pond loop from Harvey's Lake and the moderate Wonderful Lamoille Rail Trail – Dole Hill loop. These routes allow you to start and finish in the same location, offering convenient exploration of the region.

The best time for road biking in St. Johnsbury is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. This period offers pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, from lush green landscapes to stunning fall foliage. It's advisable to check local weather and trail conditions before planning your ride.

For families, the 'Three Rivers Bike Path' section of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail within St. Johnsbury offers a relatively flat and accessible 1.5-mile recreational path. While most listed road cycling routes are longer and more challenging, this section provides a good starting point for a family outing.

Specific parking information for individual trailheads is often available on komoot route pages. Generally, access points for the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail in St. Johnsbury, such as the eastern end of the 'Three Rivers Bike Path,' would have designated parking areas. For other routes, starting points like Molly's Falls Pond State Park or near Harvey's Lake would typically offer parking facilities.

Road cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes and varied terrain of St. Johnsbury. The region's blend of rolling hills, dense forests, and access to the scenic Lamoille Valley Rail Trail provides a rewarding experience. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore Vermont's natural beauty on two wheels, with options ranging from moderate loops to challenging long-distance rides.

St. Johnsbury's charming downtown area offers various cafes, restaurants, and other amenities where you can refuel before or after your ride. While specific cafes directly on every route may vary, the town serves as a convenient hub for provisions and dining. It's a good idea to plan your route to pass through or near the town for refreshment stops.

There are several road cycling routes available around St. Johnsbury, with komoot featuring 6 highly-rated routes in this guide. These routes offer a range of distances and difficulties, from moderate to difficult, catering to different preferences and fitness levels.