Winooski River Greenway Montpelier
A scenic urban greenway along the Winooski River, featuring walking trails, birdwatching spots, and vibrant art under an overpass.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
Winooski River Greenway Montpelier
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic urban greenway along the Winooski River, featuring walking trails, birdwatching spots, and vibrant art under an overpass.
"Absolutely beautiful with great views of the water and unique art!"
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Boardwalks are great, but dirt trails await further exploration.
🐦 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience along the river.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Winooski River Views
South side at Mill Street
Stunning river vistas, especially near the old Chace Mill. Perfect for a peaceful moment.
Art Under the Overpass
Discover vibrant art installations that add a splash of color to the underpass. A unique visual treat for all ages.
Birdwatching Opportunities
Keep an eye out for diverse bird species along the riverbanks. A delight for nature lovers and photographers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
River Conditions & Safety
Trail Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Boardwalks are great, but dirt trails await further exploration.
🐦 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience along the river.
Anyone know how to get to this spot in winooski? I went as a teenager and can’t remember how to get there.
📸 Capture the Art
Don't miss the colorful murals under the overpass!
⚠️ Check River Levels
Crucial for safety, especially after rain.
Can you float the end of the Winooski River? (From just after the salmon hole to Lake Champlain)
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Boardwalks are great, but dirt trails await further exploration.
🐦 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience along the river.
📸 Capture the Art
Don't miss the colorful murals under the overpass!
⚠️ Check River Levels
Crucial for safety, especially after rain.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Winooski River Greenway for its beautiful river views and the unique art found under the overpass. It's a great spot for relaxing walks, birdwatching, and enjoying nature. Some note that beyond the boardwalks, trails can be dirt paths requiring appropriate footwear.
"Its absolutely beautiful.
My children love taking walks through the trails and seeing the art under the overpass.
We saw so many cool birds and got a lot of beautiful pictures."
Kay Seagroves
"Nice outdoor walking area near the river. Easy to walk on the “boardwalk” without an outdoor shoe, but if you plan on trekking further than 1/4 mile, you will be on dirt trails."
Matt Lazina
"I didn't walk the trail but the view of the river from the south side at Mill street and right beside the old Chace mill is absolutely amazing."
Titka Seddighi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Winooski River Greenway is accessible from various points in Montpelier. Parking is available near Mill Street and the old Chace Mill. You can also reach it via local bus routes.
Yes, parking is available near Mill Street and the historic Chace Mill, providing convenient access to the trails.
Biking is a popular activity on the greenway, offering scenic routes along the river. Ensure you are mindful of pedestrians.
Yes, the greenway is accessible via local public transport, making it a convenient option for those without a car.
Key access points include areas near Mill Street and the Chace Mill, offering good starting points for exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Winooski River Greenway is a public park and is free to enter and explore.
The greenway is generally open from dawn until dusk, offering ample time for visits.
No advance booking is required as it's a public outdoor space.
The main restriction is related to river safety; avoid visiting during flood warnings or high water.
The greenway is accessible year-round, though winter conditions may affect trail accessibility and safety.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy walking, birdwatching, photography, and simply relaxing by the river. Kayaking and SUP are possible in calm conditions.
Restroom facilities may be limited or seasonal. It's advisable to check local information or plan accordingly.
Yes, children often enjoy the walks, spotting wildlife, and the unique art under the overpass.
You can spot various birds, and potentially other small wildlife along the riverbanks.
Yes, kayaking and SUP are possible, particularly from the Salmon Hole area towards Lake Champlain, but always check water conditions first.
📸 📸 Photography
The river views from Mill Street, the art under the overpass, and the diverse birdlife offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape and wildlife photography.
The colorful murals under the overpass and the scenic river bends are unique photo subjects.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, plus a wide-angle for the art installations, would be ideal.
Drone usage may be restricted in public parks. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring snacks and water, and consider sturdy shoes if your children are eager to venture onto the dirt trails. The relatively flat terrain in many areas makes it manageable for strollers and young walkers. It's a great place for a relaxed family walk or a picnic with a view.
🚶♀️ Solo Strollers & Meditators
Early mornings are particularly tranquil, with fewer visitors and soft light filtering through the trees. The accessible trails allow for easy movement, and the scenic river views provide a calming backdrop for reflection. It's a perfect urban oasis for unwinding and recharging.
📸 Nature Photographers
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, provides the best lighting conditions for landscape and wildlife shots. Consider bringing a zoom lens for bird photography and a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive river views and the art under the overpass.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For the more adventurous, the dirt trails branch off, leading deeper into the natural landscape along the riverbanks. These paths offer a more immersive nature experience, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the riparian environment. It's recommended to wear sturdy footwear, like hiking shoes or boots, if you plan to explore these sections, as they can be uneven or muddy depending on the weather.
Whether you prefer a gentle walk or a more rugged exploration, the Winooski River Greenway caters to various preferences. Remember to check the weather and river conditions, especially after rainfall, as some trails can become inaccessible or hazardous.
Wildlife and Nature
Beyond birds, the greenway's natural setting supports a healthy ecosystem. While larger mammals are less common in this urban-adjacent green space, the presence of diverse plant life and the river itself contributes to a rich natural environment. The changing seasons bring different sights and sounds, from spring blooms to autumn foliage.
To enhance your wildlife viewing experience, consider bringing binoculars. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times to spot animals when they are most active. Respecting the natural habitat by staying on trails and not disturbing wildlife is crucial for preserving this beautiful area.
Artistic Discoveries
The art under the overpass provides a striking contrast to the natural river scenery, offering fantastic photo opportunities. The style and themes of the artwork can vary, making each visit potentially a new visual discovery. It's a testament to community engagement and the creative spirit of Montpelier.
When exploring the greenway, be sure to allocate time to appreciate these artistic expressions. They are easily accessible from the main trails and add an unexpected layer of cultural richness to your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit