Everyone loves a challenge, whether it is making a cake or running a 10k for the first time. There are several ways to enjoy the countryside; one way to see it is on the Vermont Challenge. This August, ride across the beautiful state on a challenge that will test your limits. Read on to find out more on the Vermont Challenge!
The 4th Annual Vermont Challenge is this August 13th to the 16th. The bicycle tour takes competitors across southern Vermont in 2, 3, or 4 days. The events include the signature Saturday 8/15 Gran, Medio and Piccolo Fondo plus the “Ride UP” Bike Festival for all the riders! This is a challenge that you don’t want to miss!
The Vermont Challenge Schedule
Saturday, begin your journey with a ride winding up a four-mile climb to Statton Mountain Resort, which is the only mountain resort-top Gran Fondo finish east of the Continental Divide. The trek up the hill is difficult but well worth the effort. In addition to the 100 miles Gran Fondo, the Vermont Challenge features a Medio, which is 65 miles, and Piccolo, which is 26 miles. The entire family will love this adventure!
Thursday is the beginning of the events. All rides depart at 8 A.M. and return to Dana Thompson Park. You have the option between the Long Route which is 66.0-miles, the Medium Route which is 40.3-miles and the Short Route which is 29.4-miles. On Friday, the rides depart again at 8 A.M. but will return to the Vermont Country Store. Riders have the option to take the Long Route, 53.4-miles, the Medium Route, 34.5-miles, and the Short Route, 25.2-miles. On Fondo Saturday, the festivities continue. The Gran Fondo departs at 7:30 A.M. from the Stratton Mountain Base Lodge; it is a 101.0-mile challenge. The Medio Fondo is a 65.2 or 61.2-mile race. The last day, Sunday, is filled with three more exciting races, the Long Route, 57.5-miles, the Medium Route, 39.6-miles, and the Short Route, 23.3-miles. These races will depart at 8 A.M. from Dana Thompson Park! All these races are fantastic and worth your time! Click here to view the list of the Vermont Challenge.
At the end of the Saturday event, riders have the opportunity to take part in the “Ride Up” Bike Festival at the Stratton’s Village! The Festival is designed to show everyone how to take your riding to the next level. Exhibitors will be there to help you with training advice and equipment, hydration, nutrition and more!
Experience The Vermont Challenge
The Vermont Challenge is filled with adventures that will create memories that you won’t forget! As you are training for the races, make sure you find a place to stay! GetAway Vacations has an array of rentals from which to choose, allowing you to find one that fits your needs. We’ve also put together a wonderful Vacation Guide full of tips and resources to help familiarize you with the area. This guide should definitely prove useful when planning what to do when you are not cycling through the countryside! Start planning your trip today!