Carriage Barn Visitor Center – Woodstock Middle Covered Bridge loop from Woodstock

If you're looking for a challenging yet rewarding gravel biking experience in Vermont, the Carriage Barn Visitor Center – Woodstock Middle Covered Bridge loop from Woodstock delivers. This difficult 19.6-mile (31.5 km) route packs in 2155 feet (657 metres) of climbing over roughly 2 hours and 16 minutes, making it a solid ride for those with good fitness who want to explore the region's famed gravel roads.

What to expect on Carriage Barn Visitor Center – Woodstock Middle Covered Bridge loop from Woodstock

As you pedal this route, you'll journey through the quintessential Vermont landscape, renowned for its picturesque New England villages and historic covered bridges. Expect to encounter rolling hills and diverse terrain, from gentle dirt roads to more challenging Class IV sections that can be muddy or rocky. The highlight is undoubtedly the historic Woodstock Middle Covered Bridge, a nail-free marvel spanning the Ottauquechee River, but you'll also enjoy views of working farms, rushing brooks, and distant vistas of Mt. Ascutney and the Green Mountains. This ride is classified as difficult, demanding good fitness, but it offers a rewarding experience for those ready for the challenge.

Planning your visit

Your adventure begins at the Carriage Barn Visitor Center, which is part of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. This starting point provides historical context and amenities, making it a convenient place to begin your ride. The Woodstock area is a global destination for gravel cycling, so you'll find a well-established network of routes, though this particular loop offers a great combination of accessible difficulty and classic Vermont scenery.

• Distance: 19.6 miles (31.5 km)
• Elevation gain: 2155 feet (657 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 16 minutes