Vermont Bike Trails

Vermont Bike Trails, the fall foliage, craft beer, charming New England towns, and excellent riding options are just a few of Vermont’s many attractions. Whether you’re a gravel fan, road cyclist, mountain biker, or bikepacker, Vermont’s bike trails will satisfy your desire for a two-wheeled adventure. For touring or mountain biking, Vermont boasts a ton of great routes and trails. A wonderful method to go around parks and campers is on a bike. You can test your talents on a single-track mountain trail or bicycle across relatively flat lakes and rivers.

Best In Vermont Bike Trails

1.) By Trail Or Road
The Burlington Bike Path, also known as the Island Line Rail Route, is a 13.4-mile (one-way) section of off-road rail trail that connects Burlington’s lakeside coastlines to the constricting spit of the Colchester Causeway. The trail passes by a number of beaches, wooded hiking trail systems, wildlife habitats, neighborhood stores, and more along the way.

2.) The Recreation Path in Stowe
One of my favorite summertime hobbies is biking along the Stowe Recreation Path (also known as the Stowe Bike Path). The Path is only 5.5 miles long one way, but it meanders by a beautiful river and terminates in Stowe, a town that embodies all that is traditional about New England.
Cycling enthusiasts can pause along the route for a delectable lunch, some craft beer, and a swim in one of the many swimming holes. If you go to Stowe, hire a bike and ride this well-known Vermont biking trail for an afternoon. You won’t be let down!

3.) The VTXL
My bike-it list has included the VTXL for a while. This 302-mile trail connects Vermont rural roads and abandoned railroad tracks from the northernmost border with Canada to the southernmost point on the Massachusetts border. The trail travels through peaceful small villages, many of which have their own quaint general stores, as well as picturesque pastures and pastoral vistas.

4.) The Green Mountain Gravel Growler
A rider who likes beer would adore the Greek Mountain Gravel Growler, another bikepacking route in Vermont. The 248-mile loop travels from Burlington to its opposite end, but en route, it passes 13 different breweries, two traditional brewpubs, a number of renowned taprooms, and restaurants, in addition to endlessly beautiful Vermont landscapes and a lot of cows. Have that second – or third-pint because the majority of the bike ride is on peaceful backroads or abandoned trails.

5.) Misquoi Valley Rail Trail
Just south of the Canadian border, a 26.3-mile crushed-stone trail known as the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail connects the communities of Richford and St. Albans. Although there are many vistas of cornfields, pastoral dairy farms, and canals along the scenic Path, what draws people in is the impression that they are traveling through time. Visit the Enosburg Historical Museum to learn about the history of the railroad, and stroll around Richford’s historic district to catch a view of the old mill-town buildings.

Vermonters

Vermonters make the most of their trails in any weather. Traveling by train is a way of life, from the spring when wildflowers are in bloom to the breathtaking autumn display of the hardwood forests. Furthermore, in the winter, it makes no difference how much snow is on the ground because many of the trails are prepared for usage by cross-country skiers, snowshoers, or fat-tire bicycles. The most attractive paths from home to town or into the rural Vermont countryside, which is rich in cultural history and natural beauty, are revealed to trail users who explore these routes.

Spur Rail Trail at Beebe
The Beebe Spur Rail Route, which begins in Newport along Fyfe Drive, is a level and breathtakingly scenic ride for around 4 miles of paved trail to the northernmost trailhead of Derby. The majority of the route follows the 32-mile-long, 350-foot-deep Lake Memphremagog, which runs between Vermont and Quebec. Along the journey, there are several places to look for wildlife or Memphre, the fabled lake monster. As the non-profit Memphremagog Trails grooms the whole Beebe Spur Rail Trail and an additional 12 miles of trails in the area, snowshoes, cross-country skis, and fat-tire bikes are popular winter modes of transportation.

Hudson and Delaware Rail Trail
The Delaware and Hudson Company’s trains hauled coal and slate along the route of what is now the Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail for over a century. The unpaved Path is open to non-motorized users all year long, as well as cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers in the winter.
The D&H Trail has 19.8 miles in Vermont (plus a few more miles in Washington County, New York) and is split into two fairly equal portions by 14 miles of paved road. The Path, which includes 17 wooden-decked bridges across various streams and the Indian River, is popular with tourists who enjoy the peace and quiet of the hardwood forests, farmlands, and small towns along the way.

Trails at Ethan Allen Park
The 4 miles of paved and gravel routes that make up the Ethan Allen Park Trails’ main route and branch trails wind through Burlington’s 60-acre Ethan Allen Park. Home to the Abenaki, this region is rich in natural history and cultural heritage, and the 1905-built stone Ethan Allen Tower offers breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain. The steep ascent up the spur trail to the Ethan Allen Pinnacle, from where tourists can see Burlington and Mount Mansfield, the highest mountain in Vermont, is another favorite. Continue to the Route 127 Path, which also links to the Burlington Wildways, at the park’s northern end across Route 127.

Rail trail along the island
The almost 13.4-mile Island Line Rail Trail is exceptional among Vermont’s naturally beautiful settings, offering breathtaking vistas of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and the Green Mountains. The Burlington Greenway, the trail’s southernmost segment, is an 8-mile footpath that connects downtown Burlington with the shore of Lake Champlain. This Hall of Fame Rail Trail offers a wealth of photo opportunities as it connects to the Colchester Causeway, which takes users 3 miles into the heart of Lake Champlain. Trail users also have the option of taking the seasonally operating Local Motion Bike Ferry across The Cut, a 200-foot section that was once a turnstile bridge. The trail continues on to South Hero Island from there. Burlington plows a portion of the Greenway in the winter for winter tourists.

Rail Trail in Lamoille Valley
The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail spans 45 miles and is now accessible to hikers in a few disconnected portions. With Gov. Scott’s 2021 pledge, the full 93-mile trail will be open to all trail users by the summer of 2023 and snowmobilers by the end of 2022. The crushed-gravel Path that follows the 3% grade of the railroad bed is suitable for mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrian riders. Beautiful rivers and wooded areas along the course also pass through charming small villages with a rich railroad heritage.

Rail Trails And Paths For Vermont Bike Trails

The 18 public routes and rail trails in Vermont are excellent low-impact alternatives to discover the state’s waterfronts, stunning vistas, and downtowns. The Green Mountains are home to 130 miles of rail routes in total, including accessible trails for all skill levels like Baldwin Trail at Mount Independence, a Vermont State Historic Site, and longer trail networks like Millstone Trail Network. Whether taking a leisurely stroll or riding quickly, the entire family can enjoy the trails. Along the way, there is something for everyone to see and do, including cafes, nearby businesses, and public parks. Along the many roads that cross the state, take a break to savor a craft brew, a nourishing snack, or just to take in the scenery. Visitors and residents of Vermont like Burlington’s Waterfront Park and the breathtaking waterfront vistas from the Colchester Causeway are not easily forgotten.

For A Fun Biking Vacation, Vermont Bike Trails, Tours, And Equipment

At the Basin Harbor resort on Lake Champlain, biking is stunning. Take an afternoon ride to the Champlain Bridge, cruise through the woods, or travel the 7 miles into downtown Vergennes for an enjoyable shopping adventure by renting a road or mountain bike from the resort and getting a trail map from the concierge. Join the 1,600-mile network of bike paths known as the Lake Champlain Bikeways, which has 35 loops that meander through lovely communities, peaceful back roads, past waterfront parks, and stunning mountain and rural vistas. Return to the resort for a luxurious meal, a massage, or just some downtime in your private cottage or quaint lodge room. Before making your reservation, please go over our COVID policies.

Waterfront Recreation Path in Newport
Visitors of all ages can enjoy the Newport Waterfront Recreation Path, which is found on Lake Memphremagog. In addition to walking, running, birdwatching, and biking, this waterfront recreation trail is fantastic for simply enjoying nature. The Path begins at the Gateway Center/City Docks in the center of Memphremagog. It then travels along the lakefront through Pomerleau Park, over the old railroad bridge in front of the Waterfront Plaza to Prouty Beach, over the new connector bridge onto Bluffside Farm, and finally joins the Beebe Spur Rail Trail, which follows the eastern lakeshore of Memphremagog for five miles to the Canadian border.

Biking is one of the many activities available at the Lake Morey Resort, which is perched along a gorgeous 600-acre mountain lake. Vermont has a well-deserved reputation as one of the nation’s most bike-friendly states, so it should come as no surprise that biking is one of the many activities on offer there. Five miles of the lake’s shoreline can be cycled at your own speed, or you can explore adjacent byways and trails for some of New England’s most beautiful views. Visitors may either bring their own bikes or inquire in advance about the availability of bikes at the resort. After your ride, return to the hotel for a dip in the heated indoor pool, sometime in the sauna, a bite to eat, or simply unwind by the lake or in your cozy room, suite, or private cottage.

Vermont Mountain Biking

More than 1,400 miles of rocky, rooty, German, and flowy mountain biking trails can be found throughout Vermont, and they are all maintained by 29 regional chapters. Downhill riding with banked turns, jumps, and bridges is offered by certain Vermont ski slopes during the summer months. Some trailheads also have pump tracks where riders may practice their flow. The trails in Vermont’s mountain bike networks lead to adventure and some genuinely breathtaking views, whether you’re wanting the difficulties of technical terrain or looking for some smooth flow. Kingdom Trails is recognized for its top-notch, diversified terrain in Northeastern Vermont, with more than 100 miles of non-motorized, multi-use trails bridging both public and private property to make this area a mountain biking hub. It is simple to get from the mountain to Main Street thanks to places like Waterbury’s Perry Hill and the Bennington Area Trail System, which wind around historic downtowns. Wherever you ride, farm-to-table cuisine, welcome housing, and hyperlocal, small-batch craft brewing ensure that your Vermont adventure doesn’t end at the trail’s end.

Park In Vermont Bike Trails, State

1.) Emerald Lake State Park
The Taconic mountain range, which starts near the western boundary of Connecticut and the eastern border of lower New York, extends northward into the rough, steep mountains of southwest Vermont. The geology of this area creates deep, emerald-green lakes and quarries, white-rocked cliffs, limestone caves, and what was once known for producing slate and marble (thus the name Emerald Lake). The southernmost Green Mountains in Vermont are parallel to the Taconic Mountains on the east. The picturesque Valley of Vermont lies between two imposing hills, where Otter Creek flows north to Lake Champlain and the Battenkill River, famous for its trout fishing and opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, which flows south. Some of the best cycling paths in the world may be found along the Battenkill, Otter Creek, and Mettawee River valves, as well as the nearby corridors of Routes 11, 30, and 7. Although the scenery along these routes is breathtaking, intermediate to experienced riders should avoid them.

2.) Grand Isle State Park
The Champlain Islands, which are halfway between Burlington, Vermont, and cosmopolitan Montreal, Quebec, have a peaceful rural charm. There are farms along the water, orchards, a winery, and Vermont’s longest sand beach in the surrounding environment. There are several chances for leisure activities like swimming, fishing, kayaking, and biking. The Champlain Islands, in particular, are renowned for their extensive road biking alternatives. Over 992 miles of theme loops, with lengths varying from 10 to 60 miles through a variety of peaceful country roads, make up the Lake Champlain Bikeways network. Island Life (11.6 miles), Stone Castles (15.0 miles), A Trail to Two Beaches (17.5 miles), Liquid Elixir (11.7 miles), and A heritage of Ancient Stone are the five loops in the Champlain Islands (10.1 miles). You may visit Knight Point, Sand Bar, Alburg Dunes, and Sand Bar state parks for free during the day if you stay at Grand Isle State Park. These parks offer swimming beaches, picnic areas, and parking lots, making them ideal locations to begin, end, or simply stop for a break when out on a ride.

3.) Lake Carmi State Park
Lake Carmi State Park is situated on the banks of Vermont’s fourth-largest lake, smack dab in the heart of farmland. Quiet side roads lead you past bucolic vistas, centuries-old family farms, charming towns, rolling fields, and wooded areas. The 26-mile Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, which connects the communities of St. Albans and Richford, is quite close to and within easy riding distance of the park. This former railroad grade’s packed gravel surface allows for a smooth ride, and the fact that you’re off the main road and have no need to worry about traffic makes it even more delightful. The Missisquoi River, famous for its springtime whitewater, excellent fishing, and downstream heron rookeries, is followed by much of the trail.

4.) State Park Near Ricker Pond
A functioning sawmill previously stood where Ricker Pond State Park now stands in the middle of the 26,000-acre Groton State Forest. The Cross-Vermont rail route currently includes the former railroad bed that once passed through the park along the Montpelier-Wells River railroad. Between Burlington and Newbury, this cycling track will stretch for 75 miles once it is finished. The Groton Forest is traversed by ten miles of this trail. It is suitable for family riding and is easily accessible for those with impairments, with a compacted gravel bed and an average incline of less than 2%. The trail winds through forests and passes by remote lakes. Families can ride a simple out-and-back route, while seasoned cyclists can choose a day-long circle.

Vermont Bike Trails Bicycle Paths and Rail Trails

Rail trail along the island
The bike route in Burlington is perfect for you if you enjoy bicycling next to the picturesque Lake Champlain. The 13.4-mile Island Line Rail Trail connects South Hero in the Champlain Islands with Oakledge Park in Burlington. The paved cycling path follows Lake Champlain’s shoreline and provides fantastic views of the Adirondack Mountains peaks across the lake. Beautiful Waterfront Park in Burlington is where the bike path passes through. Here, one can witness some of the Northeast’s greatest sunsets. At Local Motion, bicycle rentals are accessible from the downtown path. The riders will stop at Burlington’s outstanding beaches at North Beach and Leddy Park as they go north. Up until it reaches the Winooski River, which drains into Lake Champlain, the shaded walk travels through city parks and natural areas.

Columbia Causeway
The Colchester Causeway is the most distinctive element that distinguishes the Island Line Rail Trail as one of the top biking routes in the US. This constrained dirt bike trail straight across the lake to the Champlain Islands by following a disused rail bed. There are numerous opportunities to see islands and the main Green Mountain peaks. Boat traffic is allowed through a hole in the Causeway. Bikers can travel through the Cut in the summer using a bike ferry boat before continuing their journey to South Hero Island.

Recreation Path in Stowe
The Stowe Recreation Path wasn’t built at the expense of any railroads. This multipurpose Path leads from the north of the city to Stowe’s lower village. Four parking spots scattered around the 5.3-mile trail provide access to the trail. You crisscross back and forth over the stony stream as numerous bridges cross the Little River’s West Branch. On a hot day, there are various ideal spots to cool off in this brook. Along the route is a place aptly named Swimming Hole that has a sandy beach. Here is a map of the Stowe Recreation Path.

Beebe-Newport Bike Path
The small town of Newport, which is situated on the southern side of glacial Lake Memphremagog, has its town docks where this gravel and paved bike path begins. The lakeside bike route makes its way along the picturesque waterfront. The majority of Lake Memphremagog, which has the Abenaki name for Big Waters, lies in Quebec and spans the Canadian border.

Bicycle Equipment For Vermont’s Best Bicycle Trails

Your rides on these fantastic bike lanes will be more pleasurable if you have comfortable and practical cycling gear. Look at the equipment I bring with me when I go bicycling.
Bike Clothing
Bike gloves can allow for a more comfortable ride by isolating your hands from the vibrations of the bike. Look for gloves with leather palms and gel cushions for a secure grip.
Bicycle shorts My favorite piece of biking equipment could be padded bike shorts. They shield you from chafing and give you ample padding for a comfortable, lengthy ride. Find a chamois fabric that is of a high caliber. Reflective materials are excellent for safety. Bicycle helmet Bicycle helmets do not last a lifetime. Replace your helmet every five years to ensure safety. It is, therefore, time to purchase a new brain bucket if you still have your 20-year-old one. A modern helmet is essential for a safe ride. To stay cool, look for a helmet with many vents.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Vermont’s Road Biking Trails

What is Vermont’s longest road bike route?

The Cross Vermont Rail Trail is Vermont’s longest road bike trail, according to AllTrails.com. The estimated length of this trail is 48.8 kilometers, and the average hiking time is 9 hours and 53 minutes.

Which Vermont road bike route gains the most elevation?

Vermont: Of all the local road bike trails, Lake Willoughby Scenic Drive has the largest elevation rise (1,121 m). With a 984 m elevation increase, Equinox Mountain via Skyline Drive is the next-highest ascent for road riding trails.