Grafton Gran Fondo

The Grafton Gran Fondo begins and ends at the Grafton Trails and Outdoor Center in Grafton, Vermont. It offers five cycling routes through Southern Vermont during peak fall foliage. Cyclists can select paved routes of 57, 89.5, or 113 miles, or gravel routes of 23 and 50 miles. The event focuses on climbing: the 113-mile Estremo route features 9,486 feet of elevation gain, and the 89.5-mile Gran route includes 6,804 feet. The Estremo route, the most challenging, crosses three major climbs and reaches the summit of Mt. Ascutney, a 3,144-foot monadnock. The 50-mile gravel ride incorporates 4,054 feet of climbing, and even the 23-mile gravel option includes 1,833 feet of elevation. Rest stops and a post-ride meal are provided. Proceeds benefit children at Grafton Elementary School.