Waterbury Reservoir Beach

The Cross Vermont Trail offers a truly unique touring cycling experience, weaving its way through the heart of Vermont's natural beauty. This difficult 49.1-mile (79.1 km) route, with 1955 feet (596 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 5 hours and 31 minutes to complete, presenting a diverse tapestry of landscapes. You'll pedal through lush forests, past serene farm country, and along the banks of the Winooski River, encountering a mix of paved, gravel, and dirt surfaces that demand a hybrid or mountain bike for comfortable travel.

Planning your ride on the Cross Vermont Trail requires a bit of preparation due to its varied terrain; a sturdy hybrid or mountain bike is highly recommended over a road bike. Access points and parking are available in the numerous communities the trail connects, making it flexible for day trips or longer tours. The best time to experience the trail is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when the weather is cooperative and all sections are typically clear of snow.

What makes the Cross Vermont Trail truly stand out is its ambitious vision as an evolving, multi-use pathway that actively connects 18 communities across Vermont. This ongoing project aims to create a seamless off-road route from Lake Champlain to the Connecticut River, serving as both a recreational asset and an economic engine for the towns along its path. It's a testament to community effort, inspiring similar projects like the Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail, and offers a fantastic Cross Vermont Trail overview for those exploring the state by bike.