Mt Baker Hill Climb - September 14th, 2025

2019 Vermont Gran Fondo Releases Finalized App Gap Route

Participants will enjoy a Double ascent of Appalachian Gap with the Lincoln Gap to separate them

With a double ascent of Appalachian Gap with Lincoln Gap to separate them, the 2019 Gran Fondo Vermont is gearing up to be one of the hardest one day rides in the North-eastern U.S.

The Appalachian Gap wastes no time and grade increases rapidly; this is where the 32T cassette rear will become your best friend. The final quarter mile to the first rest stop at the summit is a grinder but, the view is worth it.

Following a refuelling, at the summit of App Gap, you’ll descend into the valley passing the famous Mad River Glen ski resort, a local favorite. With a 24% maximum grade and an average grade of 15%, the east side of Lincoln Gap is reported to be the steepest paved mile in the U.S., according to Bicycling Magazine (June 2008) and now one of the world’s steepest climbs by Global Cycling Network (GCN). The Gran course will again push the limits with over 10K feet of climbing over more than 100 miles.

Participants will enjoy a Double ascent of Appalachian Gap with the Lincoln Gap to separate them

Depending on your level of fitness and aggression you should expect to be in the saddle 5 to 10 hours. Refueling stops will be available at the peak of Appalachian Gap, Lincoln Gap, and other critical locations. In addition, mechanical/sag support is provided by local mechanics at Frog Hollow Bikes.

Sounds challenging? You betcha!

FEAR NOT there are several alternative routes to choose from including the; 77 mile Medio Facile Fondo , the 66 mile Medio Difficile Fondo and the 37 mile Piccolo Fondo for all abilities of cyclists to enjoy a challenging and breath-taking day out in the Green Mountains.

The double ascent of Appalachian Gap will challenge any rider with maximum grades hitting 25% in some spots up this winding climb with steep sharp corners.

The double ascent of Appalachian Gap

The brutal "Steepest Paved Mile in the US", the Lincoln Gap will again be Gap Challenge KOM/QOM with trophies going to the top three fastest climbers in the men's and women's groups in the Gran category.

The brutal "Steepest Paved Mile in the US", the Lincoln Gap

The final gap, Middlebury Gap, is often overlooked as a lesser challenge of the day. After nearly 80 miles already ridden, it'll surprise you as its approach to the summit reaches grades matching that of Lincoln and Appalachian Gaps.

The final gap, Middlebury Gap, is often overlooked as a lesser challenge of the day