The best cycling routes around Burlington

Burlington's touring cycling routes offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find extensive paths along the Lake Champlain shoreline, including repurposed railroad lines like the Island Line Trail, which are generally flat and accessible. Beyond the immediate waterfront, routes often venture onto quiet backroads through rural Vermont, offering gentle elevation changes and scenic views of the Green Mountains and Adirondacks. The region also features gravel byways for those seeking a different surface.

Komoot features several touring cycling routes around Burlington, with a total of 4 routes currently detailed. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy loops to more moderate excursions, all designed to showcase the region's natural beauty.

The best time for touring cycling in Burlington is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural scenery, from lush greenery to vibrant fall foliage, is at its peak. The Lake Champlain bike ferry, a unique feature of the Island Line Trail, also operates during the warmer months.

Yes, Burlington offers excellent family-friendly touring cycling options. The Delaware River loop from Roebling is an easy route suitable for families. The Burlington Bike Path (Island Line Trail) is also particularly popular for families due to its flat terrain, scenic lake views, and access to parks and beaches like Oakledge Park, which features a universally accessible treehouse.

Burlington's touring cycling routes are rich with scenic viewpoints and natural features. You can expect panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains, especially along the Burlington Bike Path and Colchester Causeway. Other notable features include the historic Ethan Allen Tower in Ethan Allen Park, the unique geological formations at Rock Point (including the Champlain Thrust Fault), and the diverse ecosystems of Centennial Woods and the Intervale.

Yes, Burlington features several excellent loop routes for touring cyclists. A popular option is the Delaware River Heritage Trail Loop, which offers a moderate ride along a significant heritage trail. Another great choice is the Calhoun Street Bridge – Delaware Canal Towpath loop from Falls Township, exploring the scenic Delaware Canal Towpath.

Parking is generally available at various access points along Burlington's popular cycling routes. For routes like the Burlington Bike Path and Island Line Trail, you can often find parking at waterfront parks such as Waterfront Park, North Beach, and Oakledge Park. Specific trailheads may also offer dedicated parking facilities. It's advisable to check local city or park websites for the most current parking information and any potential fees.

Burlington has a public transportation system (Green Mountain Transit) that can help you access various parts of the city, including areas near popular cycling routes. While buses may not always accommodate bikes directly on all routes or at all times, many routes have bike racks. The city's compact nature also makes it easy to cycle to trailheads from downtown or other central locations.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Burlington, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning lake and mountain views, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels. The unique experience of cycling out onto Lake Champlain via the Colchester Causeway is also a frequently highlighted feature.

While the main trails are popular, the Burlington area also offers opportunities to explore quieter routes. Beyond the immediate city, you can find endless miles of quiet back roads dotted with cornfields and classic red barns, providing scenic routes away from the crowds. The region's extensive network of gravel byways, such as those explored on the Emily Proctor Overnight route, also offers a 'treasure trove of dirt byways' for those seeking a more secluded experience.

Yes, Burlington is well-equipped with amenities for cyclists. Many cafes, pubs, and restaurants are located conveniently near the waterfront and downtown areas, which are easily accessible from the main cycling paths like the Burlington Bike Path. You'll also find a range of accommodation options, from hotels to charming inns, within easy reach of the trailheads, especially in and around the city center.

Burlington is a key part of the extensive Lake Champlain Bikeways network, which spans over 1,600 miles across Vermont, New York, and into Québec. This includes the 363-mile Champlain Bikeway that encircles the entire lake. These networks offer numerous long-distance touring opportunities, allowing cyclists to explore picturesque villages, charming inns, and local farmstands along quiet backroads.