The best gravel rides around South Burlington
5.0
(5)
107
riders
19
rides
Gravel biking around South Burlington offers a diverse landscape characterized by a mix of paved sections, unpaved roads, and dedicated multi-use paths. The region features varied terrain, including lakeside routes along Lake Champlain, rural roads winding through agricultural areas, and forested sections. Elevations are generally gentle, with some routes incorporating moderate climbs.
Best gravel bike trails around South Burlington
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Island Line Trail, a 20.9 miles (33.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
58
riders
33.7km
02:05
130m
130m
Ride the moderate 20.9-mile Island Line Trail for stunning Lake Champlain views, including the unique Colchester Causeway.
3
riders
64.8km
04:26
570m
570m
Explore Vermont's scenic rural landscape on the challenging 40.3-mile Three Covered Bridges loop, a gravel biking route past historic bridge
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5.0
(4)
14
riders
35.5km
01:58
340m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
39.1km
03:30
430m
430m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
21.4km
01:29
320m
320m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Island Line Bike Ferry at Colchester Causeway www.localmotion.org/bike_ferry During Summer service, Bike Ferry Hours are 10am-5pm Mon-Fri & 10am-6pm Sat & Sun. The Bike Ferry runs continuously throughout the day. Reservations are not required, and the boat runs by passenger's donations (cash or Venmo). The 2025 Bike Ferry season begins Memorial Day weekend, Friday May 23 - Monday May 26. Spring service on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through Sunday June 15th. Summer daily (7 days a week) service begins Monday June 16th and ends on Labor Day September 1st. Fall weekend service on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays begins Sept 5th. Last day of 2025 service is Indigenous Peoples Day on Monday October 13th.
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Built around 1870, Holmes Creek Covered Bridge spans over a quiet inlet near Lake Champlain. This 41-foot wooden bridge—one of the shortest and lowest in the state—features a rare king post truss with a tied arch. Once vital for local orchards and hay wagons, it now stands as a charming relic just steps from the lakeshore.
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Built in 1849, Quinlan’s Covered Bridge spans Lewis Creek, with a classic Burr arch truss design and weathered wooden siding. Also known as the Lower or Sherman Covered Bridge, it once served local mills and farms and now stands as a quiet historic landmark. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it remains one of Vermont’s few surviving 19th-century covered bridges.
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From this section of the Burlington Greenway you can enjoy views of the North Beach, right off the path. If you want to stop for a break, it's a good spot for a swim or picnic. It has a sandy shoreline, restrooms, and a snack bar in summer. It can get crowded on weekends, but the lake views make it a worthwhile stop.
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The Burlington Greenway is an 8-mile paved path that hugs the Lake Champlain shoreline, offering stunning water and mountain views. It links downtown Burlington with parks, beaches, and neighborhoods. Don’t miss the northern stretch along the causeway and the seasonal bike ferry to the Champlain Islands. This section includes a boardwalk with signs advising cyclists not to ride, due to the narrow space and high pedestrian traffic.
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Beautiful Gorge along the route. As tempting as it may be to go in for a swim, don’t, many people have met their end swimming in this gorge.
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Sequin Covered Bridge, built in 1850, spans Lewis Creek and is one of Vermont’s historic wooden bridges. It is 70 feet long and features the traditional Town lattice design. The bridge, combined with the surrounding landscape, creates a scenic and enjoyable route for cycling.
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The Cross Vermont Trail is a multi-use path that spans the state, connecting communities, crossing rivers, and passing through forests and open fields. It features a mix of gravel and paved sections, making it ideal for bike touring and exploring Vermont’s scenic landscapes. You can start in Burlington and choose your own final destination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in South Burlington?
Yes, South Burlington offers several options for beginners. The Island Line Trail is particularly well-suited, providing gentle terrain and scenic views along Lake Champlain, including a unique causeway section.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around South Burlington?
The region features a diverse landscape, combining paved sections, unpaved roads, and dedicated multi-use paths. You'll encounter lakeside routes along Lake Champlain, rural roads winding through agricultural areas, and forested sections. Elevations are generally gentle, though some routes include moderate climbs.
Are there any long-distance gravel bike routes available?
For those seeking a longer ride, the Three Covered Bridges loop is a challenging 40.3-mile (64.8 km) path that explores rural landscapes and features historic covered bridges. Another option is the Colchester/Burlington bridge – Colchester Causeway loop from Lakeside, which covers about 34 miles (54.8 km).
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions along the gravel bike routes?
Many routes offer beautiful views of Lake Champlain. You can also find attractions like Waterfront Park and the Colchester/Burlington bridge. The Colchester Causeway is a notable feature, offering expansive lake views.
Are there any loop gravel bike trails in the area?
Yes, many of the gravel routes in South Burlington are loops. Popular options include the challenging Three Covered Bridges loop and the moderate Chapin Orchard – Brookside Cemetery loop from Essex, which takes you through orchards and rural roads.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in South Burlington?
The gravel bike trails in South Burlington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders frequently praise the diverse scenery, from lakeside paths to quiet rural roads, and the variety of routes suitable for different skill levels.
Are there any routes that pass through orchards or agricultural areas?
Absolutely. The Chapin Orchard – Brookside Cemetery loop from Essex is a great example, leading you directly through orchards and rural roads, offering a pleasant agricultural landscape experience.
How many gravel bike trails are there in South Burlington?
There are over 15 gravel bike routes available around South Burlington, offering a wide range of distances and difficulty levels to explore.
Can I find routes that include historic elements like covered bridges?
Yes, the Three Covered Bridges loop is specifically designed to showcase historic covered bridges while exploring the rural landscapes outside South Burlington.
Are there any routes that connect to the Cross Vermont Trail?
Yes, the Huntington Gorge – Cross Vermont Trail loop from Chittenden County incorporates sections of the Cross Vermont Trail, offering a varied ride with a mix of terrain.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in South Burlington?
Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking in South Burlington. The vibrant foliage in autumn makes for particularly scenic rides, while summer provides warm weather for lakeside routes. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.
Are there any routes that offer a mix of lakeside and forested sections?
Many routes in the South Burlington area provide this blend. You can often start with lakeside paths along Lake Champlain and then transition into more forested or rural road sections, offering a dynamic riding experience.
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