Sayre: All Gravel Roads Lead to Rome
47.5 miles | 5,727’ | 64% unpaved
Steep climbs, quiet gravel roads, and panoramic views make this one of the region's most rewarding rides. Refuel in historic Rome, then toast your adventure at two unique local wineries before rolling back into Athens.
With almost no flat miles, this steep gravel tour of the countryside between Athens and Rome will have your legs begging for a break, but the views along the way are well worth the effort. With nearly two-thirds of the route on gravel, you'll ride past picturesque farms, through thick forests, and over a seemingly endless series of climbs that define this corner of the Endless Mountains.
Rome serves as the halfway point, where riders can resupply at the Dandy or enjoy ice cream and a hearty meal at the Brunch Barn. The borough and township are named after Rome, Italy, as both communities lie at nearly the same latitude. While it's easy to assume Athens, Pennsylvania, shares a similar connection to Athens, Greece, the town's history is a bit more complicated. Early settlers originally referred to the area as Tioga or Tioga Point, marking the confluence of the Chemung and Susquehanna Rivers. For a time, letters were even addressed to Ulster before the community was officially incorporated in 1831 as Athens, reflecting the founders' aspirations for a future great city rather than a geographic connection to the Greek capital.
This route also features two excellent wineries. Antler Ridge Winery, just north of Rome, produces award-winning wines from carefully selected grapes. Their tasting room sits halfway up one of the route's steepest climbs, so you may want to enjoy a small tasting and have your favorite bottles shipped home—you'll appreciate saving your legs for the rest of the ascent. Near the finish in Athens, Staggering Unicorn Winery offers a completely different experience, specializing in more than 30 imaginative fruit wines made from locally grown fruits rather than grapes. It's a fun and memorable place to celebrate the end of a challenging day in the saddle.
