This is a challenging yet rewarding loop for an experienced rider. Pedal easily north into Vermont to Readsboro. Then turn right on to Route 100. (Although you are headed south the route sign indicates north.) One must mash uphill for more than 4 miles, turning right on Merrifield Road. This will convert to gravel but is passable by road bike. Behold a fantastic plateau that looks down into the Deerfield River valley. From there one can explore a network of lightly traveled roads both paved and gravel. This particular route will weave about on mixed surfaces before plummeting down the smoothly paved Legate Hill Road into Charlemont and Route 2. Pedal west in the comfortable bike lane before turning right on Zoar Road for the scenic step climb along the Deerfield, taking in the rapids at Zoar Gap, the eerily fantastic Hoosac Tunnel, and Fife Brook Put-In popular with fly fishers, the Dunbar Brook Picnic Area, and - the Dragon's Tooth Rapids visible during winter and audible during summer! Then finish up back at the Pumpkin Pine Cottage.