Quaint Kent Gravel

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Kent, CT, US

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Route Overview

Alin Bota

modern explorer

43 mi.

3,274 ft.

Explore narrow gravel roads along deep wooded ravines in this northwest Connecticut gem. Expansive views of the hills and rivers open up, along with a mix of quaint New England and modern architecture along this gravel-heavy route (62% unpaved).

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Route Details

@photo[Bulls Bridge](16452848) provides the starting point for this gravel ride. Originally built in 1842, it is only one of three surviving covered bridges in the state of Connecticut. After following the Housatonic River for a few miles you will begin climbing the beautiful @photo[Macedonia Brook Road](16452822), which follows its namesake thru the state park and up into the higher elevations of the route. The fast descent down Lambert Road leads to @photo[expansive views](16452829) of the surrounding forests and farmland. This is followed by another climb up Westwood No. 1 Rd., which contours up along a deep ravine.

After some more miles of dirt roads you will arrive at a @photo[beautiful marsh](16452832) that will prompt a photo stop. Then some rolling hills along the higher elevations and you will eventually arrive at N. Kent No. 1 Rd., which is a @photo[fun double-track gravel descent](16452840). Don't be dissuaded by signs indicating that it is closed at the bottom- these are meant for vehicles and you can definitely get thru on a bike. Take care as the surface conditions may be rough in places. This leads down to the Housatonic River and the wonderfully scenic River Rd. that brings you back to Kent. You might catch a glimpse of the college-prep Kent School @photo[rowing team](16452844) practicing in the river. Return to Bulls Bridge on the same Schaghticoke Rd. that started this ride.

* There is @poi[free parking](133002415) just off Rt.7 at Bulls Bridge
* Recommend minimum 38mm wide tires at lower pressure
* A few of the steeper sections of dirt roads are @poi[unmaintained in winter](133002413)
* The town of Kent has some excellent coffee/food stops (@poi[Wilson's by High Watch](133015043) recommended)
* There is no food or water resupply once you climb into the hills
* Macedonia Brook State Park has a @poi[campground](133015044) and restroom facilities along the route
* The route crosses the Appalachian Trail multiple times and @slice[aligns with it for a mile](d,55470.1,56832.4) along River Rd, so you might see hikers out
* There are two longer climbs of ~700-800ft in the first half of the route, but they are relatively gradual
* @slice[The northern loop](d,33890.8,47027.7) could be skipped if you want to shorten the length

Quaint Kent Gravel

Route Overview

Route Details

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