Motorcycle Route Author
By Guest (0 McR Points)
on Jun 30, 2007
Rider Reviews
Written Directions
Vermont Route 9, also known as the Molly Stark Trail, runs East-West across the entire width of Southern Vermont. This route is very easy to start and follow. Depending on which way you want to head, you can either start in Brattleboro and head west on Route 9 to Bennington, VT. Or you can start in Bennington and head east to Brattleboro on Rt 9. Other direction notes: If you start in the East in Brattleboro Vt, that town lies on the West bank of the Connecticut River which forms the border between Vermont and New Hampshire. Route 91 North provides easy access for riders coming north through Western Massachusetts. Route 119 West provides easy access for riders traveling from New Hampshire or Central and Eastern Massachusetts. In the West, Vermont Route 9 can be accessed through New York Route 7 West out of Albany, NY or Massachusetts and Vermont Route 7 North (Ethan Allen Hwy)out of Williamstown MA. Both roadways converge on Bennington Vt .Scenery
This roadway runs through terrain ranging from low elevation valleys to hilly and mountainous regions. Spectacular views are available, especially at Hogback Mountain Scenic Lookout that faces south over Southern VT and into the Berkshires of MA. Massachusetts is less than twenty miles away and on a clear day the view is expansive. The Molly Stark Trail (VT Route 9)is one of only a few roadways designated a Scenic Byway by the state of Vermont. During the autumn leaf-peeping season the views are dramatically enhanced but expect slow moving traffic and increased vehicle congestion on the roadway.Update/Addition from an anonymous visitor: Rt 9 twists through the beautiful green mountains along the way you will crest atop skyline were you have a 100 mile view to the south, moving into historic down town Wilmington then you start up to Searsburg and have views of the summerset reservoir and then you head into historic Bennington.
Photo contributed by visitor in Jun 09 - "Taken in Bennington."
Drive Enjoyment
Heading west out of Brattleboro the road runs in the lower elevations along several river drainages and gradually rises to higher mountainous elevations. A variety of conditions are encountered along this route, including winding curves that follow meandering rivers and exciting twisting switchbacks with uphill and downhill grades. There are also some stretches of riding that present long ascending and descending slopes with gradual cornering. The road surface is in excellent condition through the majority of the routes length. The road is also noticeably well maintained with a large section having been completely resurfaced within the last few years.Update/Addition from an anonymous visitor:Rt 9 has for the most part in the last 2-3 years been completely re-paved and is a very beautiful road, But be careful as you crest any high points due to winter weather taking its toll on the road.
Photo contributed by visitor in Jun 09 - "Taken from the Hogback Mt. deck."
Tourism Opportunities
Vermont in general is a very rural state but given the relative short distance of this route amenities are easy to come by. VT Route 9 begins in the east in Brattleboro and ends in Bennington in the west. Both of these cities are relatively large and offer any services that a rider would want, fuel, food, accommodations etc. There are several small antique shops in this region and along Rt. 9 as well as restaurants. Hogback Mountain Scenic Overlook features a small variety store and gift shop and an outdoor viewing area that is comprised of large connected wooden decks.Update/Addition from an anonymous visitor:There are plenty of gas stations and places to eat on the way, also there are plenty of gift shops to get your friends souvenirs.
