The best road cycling routes around Burlington

There are 4 road cycling routes around Burlington listed in this guide, offering diverse terrain and experiences for cyclists.

The routes around Burlington cater to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route and 3 moderate routes, ensuring options for both casual riders and those seeking a bit more challenge.

Road cycling routes around Burlington primarily feature paved surfaces, offering smooth rides. The region is known for its proximity to Lake Champlain, so many routes include scenic lakeside paths and rural roads with views of the Green and Adirondack Mountains. While dedicated road cycling routes are generally paved, some areas might have sections that are less maintained or transition to multi-use paths.

Many routes offer stunning views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains. While specific attractions vary by route, you might encounter highlights such as Padilla Bay Shore Trail, the town of Mount Vernon, or the serene Clear Lake. The region's natural beauty, including waterfront parks and forested areas, is a constant companion on these rides.

Yes, there is at least one easy route, such as the Clear Lake loop from Wa 538 and Skagit Highlands Pkwy, which is 27 km long with 183 meters of elevation gain. Burlington's extensive cycling infrastructure, including the Burlington Greenway and Island Line Trail, also offers many flat, paved sections ideal for beginners and families, though these are multi-use paths rather than dedicated road cycling routes.

While Burlington is known for its lakeside paths, some routes offer moderate climbs. For example, the Skagit Valley route covers 80 km with over 580 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout. The Mount Vernon – Clear Lake loop from Mount Vernon also features nearly 500 meters of ascent over 46 km.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Mount Vernon loop from Mount Vernon (51 km) and the Tope Ryan Conservation Area loop from Hoogdal (38 km).

The road cycling routes around Burlington are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. Cyclists often praise the scenic views of Lake Champlain and the varied landscapes that combine waterfront areas with rural roads and mountain backdrops.

Burlington offers beautiful cycling experiences throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and stunning scenery, especially with the vibrant fall foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible on some multi-use paths, but dedicated road cycling on rural roads might be affected by snow and ice.

Burlington has a public transportation system, Green Mountain Transit (GMT), which operates bus services. Many buses are equipped with bike racks, making it possible to use public transport to reach various starting points for cycling routes or to return from a longer ride. It's advisable to check specific route schedules and bike rack availability with GMT.

Parking is generally available at various points around Burlington, especially near popular trailheads and parks. For routes that start in or near urban areas, public parking lots and street parking are options. When venturing into more rural areas, look for designated parking at trail access points or small community centers. Always check local signage for parking regulations.

Burlington is a bike-friendly city with many cafes, restaurants, and shops, particularly along the waterfront and in the downtown area. Routes that pass through or near towns like Mount Vernon or Clear Lake will likely offer opportunities for coffee breaks, snacks, and rest stops. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify points of interest and amenities along the way.