Cottonbrook Connection
The best backroads in central Vermont
Surface: Mostly unpaved
Distance: 36 mi (58 km)
Vertical: 3,972 ft (1,210 m)
If you're looking for a 3-4 hour ride out of Waterbury that gets you way out in the woods, give this a shot.
The route starts at the Waterbury Park & Ride and heads north on Route 2 for a short stint before making a right into Little River State Park. This is where the climbing and adventure begins. It's worth stopping at the boat launch to take in the view of the Worcester Range across the reservoir.
Shortly after the boat launch you'll reach the entrance to the park. The day fee is $5 and there are season passes available for $40. VMBA members do receive a season pass so consider becoming a member if you haven't already!
There is a short section of MTB trail climbing before hitting the Cottonbrook Rd but it is quite manageable on a gravel bike with a small amount of walking.
Cottonbrook is the highlight of the ride and one of the coolest back road sections that central Vermont has to offer. It's smooth, fast and you're unlikely to encounter another person out there. The start of the road is rolling with a couple creek crossings for those hot days. The second half is a ripping fast descent on smooth, well maintained gravel that drops you right into Stowe and at the base of the next climb.
The road up to Trapp Family Lodge starts out steep but does mellow out as you get closer to the top. The Outdoor Center has a water fountain in the basement and just down the road there are food options.
The road from Trapps into Stowe is steep and it is one of the more heavily trafficked roads on this route so use caution as you descend. At the bottom of the descent you will connect onto the Stowe Bike path and cruise this into downtown. If you're looking for food there are plenty of options along the path or in town.
The remainder of the route starts on pavement but quickly returns to dirt as you climb out of Stowe towards the mountains. Waterworks road is a cool class 4 road that connects you over to Sweet Rd which has some of the best views of the ride.
At this point there are two descents and one climb remaining before popping out right where you started!