Vermont’s Class IV Road 65 (Kelley Stand Road North Extension)

The northern extension of Vermont’s infamous Class IV Road 65 picks up where most tourists turn around, threading deeper into the Green Mountain backcountry through sections the state officially maintains as “pass at your own risk.” This 12-mile stretch connects the popular Kelley Stand Road to remote VAST snowmobile trails, crossing three unnamed creek beds and skirting the eastern flank of Stratton Mountain through dense hardwood forest that explodes in October colors.

Moderate difficulty with a few technical rocky climbs and seasonal mud holes that’ll test your line choice. High-clearance 4WD required, especially during spring runoff when those creek crossings get interesting. Best tackled late summer through early fall when the ground firms up. No permits needed on this National Forest section, and primitive camping is allowed following Leave No Trace principles. You’ll earn solitude and some of Vermont’s finest backcountry views without the Green Mountain crowds.