The best traffic-free bike rides around Tourmont

There are 6 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Tourmont featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of experiences, from moderate to difficult, allowing you to explore the region's natural beauty away from vehicular traffic.

While the routes in this guide are generally rated as moderate to difficult, the Arbois – Liberty Square loop from Arbois is a good option for those looking for a moderate challenge. It covers 20.7 km with 434 m of elevation gain, offering a manageable ride through scenic landscapes. Vermont's extensive network of unpaved roads often includes gentler sections, making it possible to find suitable paths for various skill levels.

The Tourmont region, like much of Vermont, is characterized by its verdant and mountainous terrain. You'll cycle through lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic valleys. Many routes consist of 60-80% dirt roads, providing a true gravel biking experience amidst the state's natural beauty, often referred to as 'The Green Mountain State'.

Yes, all the gravel bike routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. For example, the challenging Fer à Cheval Viewpoint – Belvédère de la roche au Feu loop from Arbois is a 39.4 km loop that takes you through diverse terrain.

Many routes offer access to stunning natural features. For instance, the Fer à Cheval Viewpoint – Tuff Waterfalls loop from Arbois will take you past the impressive Tuff Waterfalls and the scenic Fer à Cheval Viewpoint. You might also encounter other viewpoints and gorges, showcasing Vermont's unique geological formations.

Vermont is beautiful year-round, but for gravel biking, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn are ideal. This period offers lush green scenery and comfortable temperatures. Fall is particularly spectacular with vibrant foliage. While winter offers opportunities for snow sports, many gravel roads may be covered in snow or ice, making them less suitable for gravel biking.

The routes in this guide vary in length and duration. You'll find rides ranging from approximately 18 km to nearly 40 km. For example, the Poligny – Old town of Poligny loop from Poligny is about 18.3 km and takes around 1 hour 10 minutes, while the Arbois – Belvédère de la roche au Feu loop from Arbois is 35.2 km and can take over 2 hours.

Yes, Vermont's extensive forests and wild areas, including parts of the Green Mountain National Forest, provide habitats for diverse wildlife. On these quiet, traffic-free gravel routes, you have a better chance of spotting various bird species, and potentially larger mammals like deer. Keep an eye out, especially during dawn and dusk.

Many of the routes start from towns like Arbois or Poligny, where public parking is typically available. For instance, routes like the Arbois – Liberty Square loop from Arbois and the Poligny – Old town of Poligny loop from Poligny begin in or near these settlements, making it convenient to park and start your ride.

The Tourmont area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.875 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's extensive network of quiet dirt roads, the scenic beauty of the Green Mountains, and the opportunity to explore less-frequented areas. The variety of routes, from rolling hills to more challenging ascents, is also frequently highlighted.