Barnes Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Preston Pond Conservation Area
Barnes Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Preston Pond Conservation Area
4.7
(2225)
19,986
riders
Barnes Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Preston Pond Conservation Area
08:19
139km
1,830m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel 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: January 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Camel's Hump State Park
Mount Mansfield State Forest
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
30.8 km
Barnes Hill
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
38.2 km
Lintilhac Park (Stowe Recreation Path Access)
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
54.6 km
Gold Brook Covered Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
73.1 km
Waterbury
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
95.8 km
Cross Vermont Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
104 km
Catamount Trail Network
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
139 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
63.8 km
55.5 km
12.5 km
3.77 km
1.73 km
1.53 km
474 m
Surfaces
79.7 km
52.1 km
5.47 km
1.55 km
499 m
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Elevation
Highest point (410 m)
Lowest point (90 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
23°C
13°C
66 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 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 seeking a truly epic day on two wheels, the Barnes Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Preston Pond Conservation Area is a demanding gravel biking route that delivers. This difficult 86.5-mile (139.2 km) journey packs in 5989 feet (1825 metres) of elevation gain, requiring a solid 8 hours and 19 minutes of riding. It's a serious undertaking best suited for experienced gravel riders with very good fitness looking for a long, challenging adventure through Vermont's scenic backroads.
What to expect on Barnes Hill – Gold Brook Covered Bridge loop from Preston Pond Conservation Area
This extensive loop takes you deep into the picturesque rural landscapes of Vermont, offering a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces that will test your endurance. You'll traverse quiet roads with views of the Green Mountains and sprawling farmlands, experiencing the tranquility of Vermont's remote gravel network. A highlight of the ride is passing by the historic Gold Brook Covered Bridge, also known as Emily's Bridge, a 19th-century landmark with a local legend. Expect significant climbs and descents throughout the day; this route is physically demanding, but the technical aspects of the terrain are generally manageable for a range of riders who are prepared for the distance and elevation.
Planning your visit
The loop begins from the Preston Pond Conservation Area, which serves as a convenient starting point, though the biking itself utilizes the surrounding public roads. While the conservation area has its own trails, this route is designed for gravel bikes on the connected road network. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for this route. Given the substantial distance and duration, plan for an early start, especially during warmer months, and carry plenty of water and nutrition. The best time to tackle this ride is typically from late spring through early fall, when the roads are clear of snow and ice.
Trail details
- Distance: 86.5 miles (139.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 5989 feet (1825 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 8 hours and 19 minutes
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