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Appalachian Gap: Route 17, Green Mountains, Vermont
Photo: Skynxnex · CC BY-SA 4.0

Drives Vermont Vermont

Appalachian Gap: Route 17

VT 17, Drake Woods Road · Waitsfield → VT-116 near Bristol

Twisty15.6 mi25 min2,100 ft climbHigh point ≈ 2,400 ftOne way
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The drive

Vermont Route 17 crosses the Green Mountains at the Appalachian Gap, a pass at 2,375 feet. This drive runs 15.6 miles west from Waitsfield on Route 100 to Route 116 near Bristol and takes about 25 minutes. The east side starts in the Mad River Valley and passes Mad River Glen, the ski area on the east side of Stark Mountain, before climbing to the gap.

The climb is serious: the road includes sustained pitches of 15 percent or more over several kilometers. It is a popular destination for both cyclists and motorcyclists, and the summit is the finish of stage 3 of the annual Green Mountain Stage Race. The Long Trail crosses the gap between Stark Mountain and Baby Stark Mountain.

From the top there are views of the Champlain Valley, Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. The long descent runs down the western side toward Bristol, where Route 17 meets Route 116 just west of town.

Along the way

  1. Waitsfield (VT-100)
  2. Appalachian Gap
  3. VT-116 near Bristol
Elevation
2,100 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 2,400 ft
WaitsfieldVT-116 near Bristol
Curves
Mostly moderate, with two twisty stretches
WaitsfieldVT-116 near Bristol
GentleHairpins

Good to know

  • Expect steep grades on both sides, with sustained pitches of 15 percent or more, so use a low gear on the way down.
  • Cyclists and motorcyclists are common, and the pass is a regular cycling destination.
  • Check New England 511 before you go, especially in winter, when the site reports driving conditions such as ice.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check New England 511: Vermont road conditions.

Questions about this drive

How long does the Appalachian Gap (Vermont Route 17) take to drive?

From Waitsfield to Route 116 near Bristol is 15.6 miles and takes about 25 minutes.

How steep is the Appalachian Gap?

The road to the gap includes sustained pitches of 15 percent or more over several kilometers, and the pass sits at 2,375 feet.

What can you see from the Appalachian Gap?

The gap has views of the Champlain Valley, Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.

Is the Appalachian Gap popular with motorcycles and bicycles?

Yes. It is a popular destination for both, and the summit is the finish of stage 3 of the Green Mountain Stage Race.

What you get in the app

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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Map of Appalachian Gap: Route 17, from Waitsfield to VT-116 near Bristol