The Adventure Cycling Association Green Mountains Loop Bicycle Route is a 374 mile
(601 km) loop that explores the Green Mountains of Vermont. While the Green Mountains
dominate the views and the geography of Vermont, the pastoral scenery and rural roads
of Vermont are leading reasons for its popularity as a cycling destination. Visitors must be
sure to enjoy at least one breakfast of pancakes, waffles or french toast to savor the
regional delight of locally produced pure maple syrup.
ROUTE
Although much of the route lies within valleys, there are many hills of less than 200 feet.
Most of the route uses lightly traveled roads with no shoulder. Paved shoulders prevail
where traffic is moderate. When ridden in a clockwise direction, the main route of the
Green Mountains Loop Bicycle Route travels from Burlington, Vermont, eastward into New
Hampshire along the Connecticut River. It continues back across Vermont then north into
New York along the shore of Lake Champlain. If preferred, alternates provide a route that
can be ridden entirely in Vermont. The prettier and more rural, but hillier 67-mile East
Alternate leaves the Main Route in St. Johnsbury and rejoins it in South Royalton. A
highlight of this alternate is pedaling through picturesque Peacham which has appeared
in more Vermont Life photographs than any other town. From Middlebury, the 55.5-mile
West Alternate is a faster return to Burlington that avoids the two ferry crossings of Lake
Champlain found on the Main Route.
The Missisquoi Valley Trail, a rail bed conversion, is utilized for a short portion of the route
and has a well-packed crushed limestone surface. The parallel SR 105 is suitable for
those who prefer pavement. Both offer good views of the Missisquoi River and Jay Peak to
the east.
This route can be ridden beginning in late May through the summer months. Generally,
the cycling season in the region can be extended into mid October as long as you're
prepared for cool, crisp mornings and brisk evenings. Showers are common throughout
the spring, summer, and fall in northern Vermont. Thunderstorms account for most of the
rain during the summer. Wind is seldom a problem for cyclists on this route. However,
strong southerly winds in the Champlain Valley will occasionally affect riding for a day at a
time.
