Rochester – Brandon Gap loop from Lions Club Picnic Area
Rochester – Brandon Gap loop from Lions Club Picnic Area
4.7
(2606)
13,505
riders
Rochester – Brandon Gap loop from Lions Club Picnic Area
05:04
76.4km
1,120m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 18, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Joseph Battell Wilderness
Breadloaf Wilderness
Moosalamoo National Recreation Area
Green Mountain National Forest
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.88 km
Rochester
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
18.9 km
Brandon Gap
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
26.9 km
Forest Dale
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
39.1 km
Beach
Beach
40.6 km
Salisbury Fish Culture Section
Nature Reserve
62.5 km
Middlebury Gap
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
74.2 km
Cobble Hill
Highlight • Summit
76.4 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
62.6 km
13.8 km
133 m
Surfaces
76.3 km
133 m
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Elevation
Highest point (670 m)
Lowest point (110 m)
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 10 June
28°C
15°C
96 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 3.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging yet incredibly rewarding touring cycling adventure in Vermont, the Rochester – Brandon Gap loop from Lions Club Picnic Area is definitely worth your time. This difficult 47.5-mile (76.4 km) route packs in 3687 feet (1124 metres) of climbing over an estimated 5 hours and 4 minutes, making it an excellent choice for experienced cyclists seeking a significant day out in the Green Mountains.
What to expect on Rochester – Brandon Gap loop from Lions Club Picnic Area
This route takes you through the heart of Vermont's picturesque Green Mountains, starting with a gradual rise along Route 100 before the real work begins on Route 73. Here, you'll tackle the 5.3-mile Brandon Gap climb, which, despite its 1,125 feet of elevation gain and an average gradient of 4%, is considered a manageable ascent compared to other gaps in the region. Expect some steeper sections, particularly as you near the summit, but the reward is a truly exhilarating descent. The ride down from Brandon Gap is renowned for its fast pace, excellent pavement, and sweeping curves that require minimal braking, offering fantastic views of rolling farmlands and dense forests, often winding alongside scenic features like Lake Dunmore. This is a ride for those with very good fitness who appreciate both the grind of a climb and the thrill of a well-earned descent.
Planning your visit
The Lions Club Picnic Area serves as a convenient starting point for this loop, offering easy access to the route. While specific parking details aren't noted, it's a recognized trail station, so you should find suitable space. There are no permits or fees mentioned for this route. The best time to cycle this loop is during the warmer months when roads are clear of snow, typically from late spring through early fall, to fully enjoy the scenic views and optimal road conditions.
Trail details
- Distance: 47.5 miles (76.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 3687 feet (1124 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 5 hours and 4 minutes
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