Mountain Biking Near Gnome Shire Cottage
If mountain biking is part of your Vermont getaway, Gnome Shire Cottage is an ideal home base. Located in Wolcott, you’re surrounded by some of northern Vermont’s best riding — from quiet local forest trails just a minute away to some of the most well-known trail systems in New England.
Whether you’re looking for a quick morning ride, a scenic cruise, or a full-day mountain biking adventure, you’ll find it here.
Ride Right Near the Cottage
One of the biggest advantages of staying at Gnome Shire Cottage is how close you are to trails.
Wolcott Town Forest (1 Minute Away)
The Wolcott Town Forest trail system is located just about a minute from the cottage, offering a peaceful and uncrowded place to ride through classic Vermont woods.
This is the kind of spot guests love — simple, quiet, and easy to access without needing to drive or plan ahead.
Why guests love it:
Ride right from (or very close to) the cottage
Quiet, uncrowded trails
Beautiful forest setting
Perfect for a quick ride anytime
Best for:
Beginner to intermediate riders
Morning or evening rides
Warm-up before heading to larger trail networks.
Nearby Trail Systems Worth Exploring
Beyond Wolcott, you’re within easy driving distance of some of Vermont’s most popular mountain biking destinations.
Hardwick Trails (10 Minutes)
A great local option with a strong community feel, Hardwick Trails offers a mix of singletrack and multi-use trails through rolling terrain.
Why ride here:
Close and easy access
Great mix of beginner-friendly and moderate trails
Nice stop before or after visiting Hardwick’s food and brewery scene
Best for:
Beginner to intermediate riders, relaxed rides
Cady Hill Forest – Stowe (25 Minutes)
Cady Hill is one of the most popular mountain biking areas near Stowe, offering a well-built network of trails for all skill levels.
Why ride here:
Classic Stowe riding experience
Smooth flow trails plus more technical sections
Great trail variety in one location
Best for:
All skill levels
Perry Hill – Waterbury (45 Minutes)
For a more challenging ride, Perry Hill is known for its climbs and rewarding descents.
Why ride here:
Fast, flowy downhill sections
Classic Vermont technical terrain
A more advanced riding experience
Best for:
Intermediate to advanced riders
Kingdom Trails – East Burke (1 Hour)
Kingdom Trails is one of the most well-known mountain biking destinations in the Northeast, with an extensive network of trails across beautiful Vermont countryside.
Why ride here:
Large, professionally maintained trail network
Options for all abilities
A must-visit for serious riders
Best for:
All skill levels, full-day adventures
Lamoille Valley Rail Trail (Right Nearby)
While not traditional mountain biking, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is a huge bonus for guests.
Running across northern Vermont, this scenic trail is perfect for:
easy rides
gravel or hybrid biking
recovery days
family outings
It’s a great way to enjoy the landscape without the climbs and technical terrain.
Why Stay at Gnome Shire Cottage for a Biking Trip
Gnome Shire Cottage offers something many places can’t — access to both quiet local trails and major riding destinations.
You can:
Ride Wolcott Town Forest right near the cottage
Explore Hardwick Trails minutes away
Spend a day at Cady Hill in Stowe
Challenge yourself at Perry Hill
Plan a destination ride at Kingdom Trails
Cruise the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail
It’s the perfect setup for couples, friends, or families where everyone wants a slightly different kind of ride.
Before You Ride
Trail conditions in Vermont can change quickly, especially in spring and after rain.
Please check trail conditions before heading out and respect trail closures to help protect these trail systems.
Planning a Vermont biking getaway?
Stay at Gnome Shire Cottage and explore some of the best mountain biking in northern Vermont — from trails right next door to iconic destinations just a short drive away.