Burlington Bike Path (Island Line Trail) - Image 1
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Burlington Bike Path Island Line Trail

4.7
·22 reviews·Burlington, United States

Ride across Lake Champlain on the Island Line Trail, offering stunning water views and a unique causeway experience.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Burlington Bike Path (Island Line Trail) - Image 1

Burlington Bike Path Island Line Trail

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride across Lake Champlain on the Island Line Trail, offering stunning water views and a unique causeway experience.

4.7
(22 reviews)

"Simply unbelievable bike path that takes you from Burlington out across Lake Champlain!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bike Choice Matters

Opt for a hybrid or mountain bike for comfort on paved, dirt, and gravel sections. :athletic_shoe:

Check Ferry Schedule

The bike ferry is seasonal. Plan your route if it's closed for the season. ⛴️

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.7 · 22 reviews

Type

Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Champlain Views

Lake Champlain Views

Breathtaking vistas of Lake Champlain and surrounding nature, offering moments of awe.

Island Line Trail

Island Line Trail

An incredible path stretching across Lake Champlain, promising varied terrain and stunning scenery.

Waterfront Path

Waterfront Path

A well-paved trail along Burlington's waterfront, perfect for walking, running, or biking.

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Trail Conditions & Bike Choice

The Island Line Trail offers varied terrain, including paved sections, dirt, and gravel. A hybrid or mountain bike is recommended for comfort, especially after rain when some parts can get muddy. Check recent trail conditions before you go.

Ferry Status & Route Planning

The bike ferry connecting the trail across Lake Champlain is seasonal. Plan your route accordingly, as it may be closed outside of operating months. Even without the ferry, the views are spectacular.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on lake
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Mountain biking?

Hello folks, I’ll be visiting your city in mid September and was wondering if there was any mountain bike specific trails nearby. I’m not familiar with the area at all and was wondering what some of the local trail systems were and what to look out for. I promise to leave it…

Bike Choice Matters

Opt for a hybrid or mountain bike for comfort on paved, dirt, and gravel sections. :athletic_shoe:

Check Ferry Schedule

The bike ferry is seasonal. Plan your route if it's closed for the season. ⛴️

reddit.com

Dumb Bike Paths Question

Hi y'all, been thinking of getting a bike to get out of the house and get more exercise, fresh air etc. I'm the type of person who likes to research the crap out of a thing before investing in equipment (since I know unforeseen obstacles can lead to my "new hobby" stuff…

reddit.com

New to Burlington: Mountain biking and Snowboard spot suggestions?

Hey everyone! I just moved to Burlington in August, and I’m excited to dive into some new outdoorsy activities (and hopefully make some friends along the way!) ... I’d like to stay within 30min - 1hr drive from Burlington starting off. Mountain biking experience level: Beginner…

Embrace the Views

Enjoy the amazing lake and wildlife views; they are a major highlight of the trail. :camerawithflash:

Trail Conditions

Some sections can get muddy after rain, so wear appropriate clothing. ☂️

reddit.com

Any secret bike commuting trails near the train tracks to avoid Shelburne Rd?

Greetings! I am bike commuting between Burlington and near one of the dealerships south of Lowes on Shelburne Rd. I would love to avoid traveling in the dinky bike lane while cars are whizzing by at 50MPH. The sidewalk works since there's noone on it, but still not pleasant.…

Tips

from all over the internet

Bike Choice Matters

Opt for a hybrid or mountain bike for comfort on paved, dirt, and gravel sections. :athletic_shoe:

Check Ferry Schedule

The bike ferry is seasonal. Plan your route if it's closed for the season. ⛴️

Embrace the Views

Enjoy the amazing lake and wildlife views; they are a major highlight of the trail. :camerawithflash:

Trail Conditions

Some sections can get muddy after rain, so wear appropriate clothing. ☂️

What Travellers Say

4.7
(22 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Burlington Bike Path Island Line Trail for its stunning Lake Champlain views and the unique experience of riding on the causeway. The varied terrain and accessibility make it a hit for biking, walking, and running. Some note concerns about trail conditions after rain and the presence of homeless encampments in certain areas.

"Overall this was a great path to go for a ride on. Was decently flat with some small hills but nothing serious. Some beautiful views of the lake and wildlife that we wouldn’t have been able to see otherwise. Parts of it are dirt/gravel that gets muddy, so I’d recommend wearing appropriate clothing and a hybrid/mountain bike. Most of the trail is on road though"

Chris DeMarey

"Such an amazing trail to either walk, run or bike! We rented bikes right on the path at Local Motions and spent about 3 hours biking north to the ferry. We knew the bike ferry to get you across was closed for season but wanted to see the amazing views either way."

Samantha Cobbett

"Simply unbelievable bike path that takes you from Burlington out across Lake Champlain! Amazing views, varied terrain, and breathtaking moments constantly! Can't wait to do this again. Wow! 🙂👍✌️❤️❤️"

Ken Morris

What People Like

Amazing lake views
Unique causeway ride
Varied terrain

What People Dislike

Muddy sections after rain
Homeless encampments

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The trail is accessible from multiple points in Burlington, VT. A popular starting point is near Waterfront Park, where you can also find bike rentals. The trail extends north and south along the lake. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas available, particularly near the Burlington waterfront and at various access points along the trail. Arrive early during peak season to secure a spot. Reddit

While direct bus routes to every trailhead might be limited, you can use local bus services to get to the Burlington waterfront area, which provides access to the path. Check Green Mountain Transit for routes. Reddit

Many cyclists begin near Waterfront Park in Burlington, VT, as it offers easy access and bike rental options. From there, you can head north towards the causeway and ferry. Reddit

Generally, electric bikes are permitted on the Island Line Trail, but always check local regulations. The varied terrain can be made easier with e-assist. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Burlington Bike Path Island Line Trail is a public recreational path and does not require an admission ticket for general use. Reddit

Yes, the bike ferry that crosses Lake Champlain has a fee. However, it is seasonal and may be closed outside of its operating months. Reddit

The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. There are no specific closing times for the trail itself, but amenities like bike rentals will have their own hours. Reddit

For organized group events or large gatherings, it's advisable to contact the local parks department or relevant authorities in Burlington, VT, to inquire about permit requirements. Reddit

While the trail is not officially closed at night, it is unlit in many sections, making nighttime use potentially unsafe. Stick to daylight hours for the best experience. Reddit

🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience

A hybrid or mountain bike is recommended due to the trail's varied surfaces, including paved sections, dirt, and gravel. Road bikes may be less comfortable on rougher parts. Reddit

Yes, bike rental shops are available near the Burlington waterfront, such as Local Motion, making it easy to rent a bike for your ride. Reddit

The trail features a mix of well-paved surfaces, dirt, and gravel. Some sections are relatively flat, while others have small hills. The causeway section is particularly scenic. Reddit

Restroom facilities and water fountains are available at various points, especially near popular access areas and parks along the Burlington waterfront. It's wise to carry water, especially on longer rides. Reddit

You can often spot various bird species, waterfowl, and other small wildlife along the lake and marshy areas adjacent to the trail. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the trail itself has limited dining options, the Burlington waterfront area offers numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy along the path. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for longer rides. Remember to pack out all trash to keep the trail clean. Reddit

The Church Street Marketplace and the areas surrounding Waterfront Park in Burlington, VT, offer a wide variety of dining choices, from casual to upscale. Reddit

Directly on the trail, options are scarce. It's best to stock up before you start or plan to stop in Burlington or other small towns along the route. Reddit

Absolutely! There are many scenic spots along the Burlington Bike Path Island Line Trail perfect for a picnic lunch with beautiful lake views. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The causeway section offers panoramic lake views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Look for interesting wildlife and reflections on the water. Reddit

It's best to stop at designated pull-offs or scenic spots to take photos safely. Carrying a phone or camera in an easily accessible pouch can be helpful. TikTok

Landscape photography capturing the lake, causeway, and sunsets is very popular. Wildlife photography is also rewarding. Reddit

Drone usage is subject to local regulations and park rules. It's essential to check with Burlington authorities before flying a drone in the area. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh. Reddit

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