Maple Soul, Rochester

BBC TravelSep 6

The US's newest bikepacking trail is pioneering a whole new way to see Vermont

The Heart of the Greens trail threads through Vermont's Green Mountain wilderness, and is the first part of an ambitious bikepacking adventure that will someday span the state.

Farm-to-table eatery in Rochester serving dishes with maple syrup.

18 things in this story

Heart of the Greens trailTrailFirst part of an ambitious bikepacking adventure spanning the state.
Green Mountain National ForestSightNearly 400,000 acres of woods extending in every direction.
Chittenden Brook campgroundSightModern hut with pine siding, glass windows, and wraparound porch.
Heart of the Greens LoopTrail38-mile bike trail loop, first completed segment of a larger network.
Maple SoulRestaurantFarm-to-table eatery in Rochester serving dishes with maple syrup.
Spikehorn YurtHotelOpen year-round, no running water, has bunkbeds and futon.
Chittenden Brook HutHotelOpen year-round, no running water, has bunks and kitchen.
VelomontTrailFuture bikepacking route through Central Vermont, connected by huts.
Green Mountain BikesSightShop in Rochester encouraging visitors to hire e-bikes.
The Stable InnHotelGuesthouse opened in 2023, Nordic-chic decor, rooftop solar panels.
Route 100TrailRoad used for part of the bikepacking route.
State Garage RoadTrailRoad that transforms into steep gravel on the route.
PerspirationTrailTrail section with a mile of switchbacks.
Route 73TrailSmooth pavement section for cycling.
Bingo Brook RoadTrailQuiet, unpaved road with pastoral scenery.
Swan's Mill TrailTrailTrail section with switchbacks, totaling 12 miles and 2,000ft climbing.
Tunnel RidgeTrailFive-mile-long flow trail with 110 switchbacks.
Elsewhere
Clear River Inn & TavernRestaurantPittsfield, United StatesHigh quality rooms and dining with a local influence and reasonable prices.

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Maple Soul

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The US's newest bikepacking trail is pioneering a whole new way to see Vermont