Connecticut Valley Century (COVAC) Ride - New

Total Distance:  102.7 miles                           Elevation Gain:  ~2900 feet  

Degree of Difficulty Index:  2900 ft / 102.7 mi. = 28.24 ft/mi          Terrain:  Flat to rolling

Killer Hills: None

Geographical Region:  Central Massachusetts

City/Town:  Hatfield, Massachusetts

Starting Location:  Lion's Club Pavilion at the end of Billings Way, Hatfield, Massachusetts.  From I-91 take Exit 20.  Go east towards Hatfield on Elm Street. In about 1.6 miles, bear right on Maple Street, and in 0.5 mile bear left on Main Street. In 0.35 mile turn left onto Billings Way and follow to end and Lion's Club Facility.

Ride Description:  This century ride follows mostly rural town roads, and lightly traveled state highways with good shoulders. For the first 60 miles the ride heads north to Brattleboro, Vermont, following a course west of the Connecticut River. At Brattleboro, the ride crosses to the east side of the Connecticut River and heads south back to the starting pint. Although there are a few modestly hilly sections, the ride is generally pretty mellow. The scenery is lovely and the traffic relatively light. Although the ride is enjoyable at any time of year, early autumn with the fall tree colors and cool temperature is an ideal time for the ride.

NOTE: This ride was developed by the Franklin-Hampshire Freewheelers (FHF) bicycle club. It is generally offered as a supported ride on the second Saturday in September, with an entry fee, and options of 25, 50 75 and 100 miles. A link to the FHF website is on the www.CTBikeRoutes.org website.

Facilities and Points of Interest:    

Wu-WE062 abb                                          DLB01086                                www.ctbikeroutes.org