The drive
Vermont Route 125 crosses the Green Mountains at Middlebury Gap, 2,144 feet up in the town of Hancock. This drive runs 15.2 miles west from Hancock on Route 100 to East Middlebury, where 125 meets Route 116. It takes about 25 minutes and the curves are mostly gentle, with two twistier stretches around miles 6 to 7 and 11 to 13.
West of the gap, Route 125 follows the Middlebury River through the Green Mountain National Forest and passes Bread Loaf and Ripton. The Long Trail crosses at the gap, and the Middlebury College Snow Bowl is just south of it. The Breadloaf Wilderness lies north of the pass.
Along the way
- Hancock (VT-100)
- Middlebury Gap
- Bread Loaf campus
- East Middlebury (US-7)
Good to know
- The climb from Hancock goes up to 2,144 feet at the gap, and the run down the west side follows the Middlebury River.
- The Long Trail crosses the road at the gap, so hikers may be parking or crossing there.
- Check New England 511 for closures and roadwork before you go.
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 Vermont Route 125 over Middlebury Gap take?
From Hancock to East Middlebury is 15.2 miles and takes about 25 minutes.
How high is Middlebury Gap?
Middlebury Gap is 2,144 feet above sea level, in the town of Hancock.
Which towns does Route 125 pass west of Middlebury Gap?
Route 125 passes through the hamlet of Bread Loaf and Ripton, following the Middlebury River through the Green Mountain National Forest.
Where does the Long Trail cross Route 125?
It crosses at Middlebury Gap, between Worth Mountain to the south and Boyce Mountain to the north.
What you get in the app
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.