The best traffic-free bike rides around Burlington

Burlington offers a wide selection of car-free touring cycling routes. There are over 25 routes available, with 17 rated as easy, 11 as moderate, and 1 as difficult, ensuring options for all skill levels.

The komoot community highly rates the no traffic touring cycling routes in Burlington, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning lake views, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful, car-free experience.

Yes, many of Burlington's no traffic routes are ideal for families. The Centennial Trail East Terminus loop from Burlington, for example, is an easy 15 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed family outing. The Burlington Greenway, a major car-free path, is largely flat and offers easy access to parks and beaches.

Many of Burlington's public parks and multi-use paths, including sections of the car-free cycling network, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Always check local signage for specific regulations in parks like Oakledge Park or Red Rocks Park, which offer beautiful views and trails accessible from cycling routes.

The no traffic touring cycling routes in Burlington primarily feature paved or well-maintained gravel paths, making them suitable for touring bikes. Most routes, like the Tamp Coffee Co. – Downtown Burlington loop, are relatively flat with minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for various fitness levels. The iconic Burlington Greenway and Island Line Trail are largely flat and paved.

Along Burlington's no traffic cycling routes, you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Notable attractions include Crawford Lake, and various viewpoints like Lake view from the dam. The routes also pass through or near city parks such as Waterfront Park, Oakledge Park, and Ethan Allen Park, offering diverse natural and historical points of interest.

Parking is available at various points along Burlington's car-free cycling network. Many city parks, such as Waterfront Park, Oakledge Park, and North Beach, offer parking facilities with direct access to the Burlington Greenway and other paths. There are also municipal parking garages in downtown Burlington, often within a short ride of the lakefront paths.

Yes, Burlington's public transportation system, Green Mountain Transit (GMT), offers bus services that can get you close to many of the car-free cycling routes. Buses are equipped with bike racks, making it convenient to combine cycling with public transport, especially for accessing points along the Burlington Greenway or routes further afield.

The best time for no traffic touring cycling in Burlington is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, the paths are clear, and the natural scenery, from lush greenery to vibrant fall foliage, is at its peak. The seasonal bike ferry on the Island Line Trail usually operates from late spring to early fall.

Yes, several no traffic touring cycling routes in Burlington are designed as loops. For instance, the Bike loop from Upper Middle Road at Walkers Line offers a 12 km circular ride. Many sections of the Burlington Greenway can also be combined with other paths or quiet city streets to create custom loop experiences.

Absolutely. Burlington's car-free cycling routes, especially those along the waterfront and through the city, offer numerous opportunities for refreshments. The Tamp Coffee Co. – Downtown Burlington loop is specifically designed to include a coffee stop. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and ice cream shops easily accessible from the Burlington Greenway and in downtown areas.

While the immediate no traffic cycling routes in Burlington focus on lakefront and urban paths, the wider region offers access to waterfalls. For example, Webster's Falls and Hilton Falls are notable attractions in the broader Burlington area, though they may require a short detour from the dedicated car-free cycling paths.