Getting There
Stowe is just a 45 minute drive from Burlington International Airport (BTV). Direct flights from major cities include Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Newark, New York (JFK and LGA) Orlando, Philadelphia, Toronto and Washington DC. Taxis from Burlington to Stowe cost approximately $70 with Burlington Taxi.
Day 1
Stowe
Arrive at your leisure to Stowe, the idyllic Vermont ski town, now as popular in spring, summer & fall, for among other attractions, great cycling. Early afternoon (you can check in from 2pm), meet your bikes and take a warm-up ride out to the Von Trapp lodge outside of Stowe, where the family purchased a farm in a spectacular setting that reminded them of Austria. Stop in at the Alchemist, a craft brewery where you can tour and taste. Back in town, stroll up Main Street, a quaint strip of independent shops (no chain stores here), bookended by a white steeple church and a covered walking bridge. Stay at charming Green Mountain Inn, which was built in 1833.
Ride distance: 12mi (20km); elevation gain 1,000’ (340m).
Day 2
Stowe & Morrisville
We have several options for you to consider today; the main route leads to the historic town of Morrisville, with add-on options including a loop around Lake Lamoille. Stop by an antique store on the return route and admire New England collectibles. Back in Stowe, enjoy a massage or explore more of the town; adventure seekers might consider a zip line tour from the mountain top.
Ride distance: 20mi (32km); elevation gain 1,175’ (390m) or 24mi (39km); gain 1,410’ (470m) or 32mi (52km); gain 1,860’ (620m).
Day 3
Montpelier & Mad River Valley
Ride south from Stowe along the Putnam State Forest to Waterbury; stop by Waterbury State Park and gaze onto the reservoir here. Pop into a glassblowing studio or a cider mill or head straight for Ben & Jerry’s, the Vermont celebrated ice-cream makers. There is an add-on ride option to the charming village of Montpelier located on the Winooski River. Following the Mad River Valley on freshly paved road, stop at an organic farm that you can tour and taste at, including their maple syrup. In Waitsfield admire a covered bridge that has been here since 1833 (it may be the oldest in Vermont).
Ride distance: 31mi (50km); elevation gain 2,190’ (730m) or 43mi (70km); gain 2,880’ (960m).
Day 4
Waitsfield & Warren
Choose between a short loop near Sugarbush (hiking is also an option) or an intermediate ride to Middlesex, Waterbury and back through Warren. Lunch options abound in each. In case you are interested in soaring in a glider, you can do this nearby. On a clear day, you’ll see the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain to the west, Camel’s Hump and Mt. Mansfield to the north, and Mt. Washington and the White Mountains to the east.
Ride distance: 21mi (35km); elevation gain 1,860’ (620m) or 43mi (70km); gain 2,880’ (960m).
Day 5
Woodstock
Ride from Waitsfield south along the Mad River. Stop and view scenic Warren Falls and then further south, pop into a glass blowing studio & gallery. The Rochester Café & Country Store is an option for lunch, or continue further to Barnard General Store which boasts a nice picnic spot overlooking Silver Lake. Enjoy a swim at the sandy beach here. Close to Woodstock you can visit the Billings Farm & Museum, which shows visitors what farm life was like in the 1890s. The working dairy farm allows you to see cows being milked, sheep being sheared and horses plowing. Arrive to Woodstock and marvel at the covered bridge over the Ottauquechee River. Stay at the charming and luxurious Woodstock Inn & Resort. Enjoy the spa and then tuck into a great meal at dinner time.
Ride distance: 32mi (52km); elevation gain 1,440’ (480m) with shuttle or 62mi (100km); gain 2,490’ (830m).
Day 6
Woodstock & Quechee
Today, follow the Ottauquechee River to Taftsville and Quechee. You’ll have the chance to see 4 covered bridges today – Quechee’s is 70 feet long and one of the most photographed in Vermont. Stop at Simon Pearce for a glassblowing demonstration and at the Quechee gorge, marvel at the views. Back in Woodstock, opt for an afternoon hike on Mt. Tam with views of Woodstock, Mount Peg and the river valley you biked in the morning. Visit the Carriage Barn, which serves as the national park’s visitor center and then tour the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller mansion. Longer cycling options visit other villages west of Woodstock towards Killington. Enjoy dinner in the fine dining room of the Woodstock Inn.
Ride distance: 17mi (28km); elevation gain 864’ (288m) or 34mi (55km); gain 1,440’ (480m) or 43mi (70km); gain 2,820’ (940m).
Day 7
Departure Day
Depart at your leisure.
