The best cycling routes around Winooski
4.7
(101)
1,387
riders
91
rides
Touring cycling routes around Winooski, Vermont, offer a blend of urban access and diverse natural landscapes. The region is characterized by the Winooski River and its gorge, providing scenic views and historical significance. Proximity to Lake Champlain allows for routes with water and mountain vistas. The terrain includes forested areas, wetlands, and features shaped by glacial activity, creating varied ecosystems for exploration.
Best touring cycling routes around Winooski
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cycle the City Southern Sojourn, a 12.8 miles (20.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 16 minutes to complete. This route offers scenic views and utilizes recreation paths.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Winooski River to Shelburne Pond loop, a moderate 23.6 miles (37.9 km) path. This route provides diverse scenery, including views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Winooski River valley.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Winooski River viewpoint loop from Winooski, a 17.3 miles (27.8 km) trail leading through river valleys and offering viewpoints, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Winooski is defined by river valleys, lake shorelines, and forested areas. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paths to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Winooski are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 800 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Winooski's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.0
(2)
4
riders
20.6km
01:17
210m
210m
The Cycle the City Southern Sojourn offers a delightful touring cycling experience through Burlington, Vermont, blending urban convenience with scenic stretches. You'll primarily follow the Spear Street Recreation Path, a well-maintained cycleway that provides a smooth and enjoyable ride. Keep an eye out for the Overlook Park viewpoint, where you can pause to take in some lovely vistas, making this route a great option for a leisurely outing.
This moderate route covers 12.8 miles (20.6 km) with an elevation gain of 687 feet (209 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete. It's well-suited for casual cyclists looking for a pleasant ride without extreme challenges. Parking is generally available in the surrounding Burlington area, and the route is best enjoyed from spring through early fall when the weather is most agreeable.
While the name might suggest a grand tour of the American South, this specific Komoot route is a local Burlington gem, perfect for exploring the city's southern side. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a relatively short, accessible touring bicycle route that combines dedicated cycle paths with rewarding views, offering a taste of Vermont's outdoor appeal right from the city.
1
riders
37.9km
02:27
310m
310m
Embark on the Winooski River to Shelburne Pond loop, a moderate touring cycling route spanning 23.6 miles (37.9 km) with 1015 feet (309 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 26 minutes. This ride offers a delightful mix of paved riverside paths and quiet public roads, leading you through rolling woodlands and past the tranquil waters of Shelburne Pond. You'll enjoy diverse scenery, from the Winooski River's banks to glimpses of Mount Mansfield from a dedicated viewpoint.
To plan your visit, consider starting your journey from an access point near the Winooski River Multi Trail in the Burlington area, where parking is generally available. The route is best enjoyed during the warmer seasons, from spring to fall, when the weather is ideal for cycling. Be prepared for sections on public roads and always prioritize safety by being aware of traffic.
This loop is a fantastic way to experience the varied landscapes of Vermont, showcasing both urban riverfronts and more rural, forested areas. Shelburne Pond stands out as one of the region's largest undeveloped freshwater ponds, providing a haven for various bird species. The route also connects to an expanding network of bike paths, offering a glimpse into the broader cycling infrastructure of the Winooski Valley.
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5.0
(1)
13
riders
18.2km
01:16
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
riders
19.7km
01:12
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
12.5km
00:44
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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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Shelburne Pond is one of the largest undeveloped freshwater ponds in the region. Its calm, green waters are surrounded by forest, providing habitat for many bird species. You can take a break and hike one of the short trails close to the access road.
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The Spear Street Recreation Path is a paved trail that runs along green areas of Burlington. It connects parks, recreation areas, and other key cycling routes in the city. There isn’t much traffic, which makes it great!
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Blanchard Beach is a public beach on Lake Champlain in Burlington, Vermont. Situated within Oakledge Park, it features a small sandy beach and easy access off of the Island Line Trail. From the beach, you can enjoy stunning views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains. Facilities in the near by Oakledge Park include restrooms, picnic areas, shaded spots, and a large sundial, making it a perfect destination for locals and visitors alike.
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Waterfront Park in Burlington, Vermont, is a scenic public park on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. Known for its breathtaking views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains, the park offers open green spaces, walking paths, and access to the Burlington Bike Path, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities like cycling, walking, and picnicking. The park also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival and the Lake Champlain Maritime Festival.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Winooski?
There are nearly 80 touring cycling routes around Winooski, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find approximately 36 easy routes, 35 moderate routes, and 7 more challenging options.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes in Winooski?
Touring cycling routes in Winooski offer a diverse landscape. You can expect scenic views of the Winooski River and its dramatic gorge, the expansive Lake Champlain with mountain backdrops, and lush forested areas and wetlands. Routes often pass through historic structures and working farms, providing a blend of natural beauty and local charm.
Are there any easy, family-friendly touring cycling routes in Winooski?
Yes, Winooski offers several easy routes suitable for families. The Burlington Greenway – Barge Canal loop from Burlington is an easy option, providing a pleasant ride. The broader Winooski Valley Park District also manages over 25 miles of trails, many of which are gentle and family-friendly, connecting various parks and natural areas.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks I can see along the routes?
Along Winooski's touring cycling routes, you can encounter several interesting natural features and landmarks. The Winooski River Gorge is a dramatic sight with cliffs and a unique forest. You might also pass by the Colchester/Burlington bridge, enjoy views from Waterfront Park, or visit the Burlington Greenway – North Beach Section. The region's proximity to Lake Champlain also means stunning water and mountain vistas are common.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Winooski area?
Yes, Winooski features several circular touring cycling routes. A popular moderate option is the Winooski River to Shelburne Pond loop, which offers diverse scenery including Lake Champlain views. Another well-regarded loop is the Colchester/Burlington bridge – Colchester Causeway loop from Burlington, which takes you along the Lake Champlain shoreline.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Winooski?
The touring cycling routes in Winooski are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1300 cyclists have explored the area using komoot, often praising the diverse terrain, scenic river and lake views, and the blend of urban access with natural escapes.
Can I access touring cycling routes using public transport in Winooski?
Winooski's urban setting and proximity to Burlington mean that many routes are accessible via public transport connections. The downtown area serves as a hub, and the extensive trail network, including parts of the Burlington Greenway, is designed to connect residents and visitors with the natural environment, often near accessible points.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer views of the Winooski River Gorge?
Yes, the Winooski River is a central feature of the region, and many touring cycling routes offer views of the river and its dramatic gorge. The Winooski River Walk, a concrete path, specifically showcases the Winooski Falls and the historic Champlain Mill, providing beautiful river vistas.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Winooski?
The best time for touring cycling in Winooski is generally from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the natural landscapes, including the forests and river areas, are at their most vibrant. The Burlington Greenway's seasonal bike ferry to the Champlain Islands also operates during warmer months, enhancing route options.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling options near Winooski?
For those seeking longer rides, Winooski serves as a gateway to more extensive networks. The Cross Vermont Trail, while still a work in progress, has completed sections suitable for bicycling and is envisioned to connect towns across the state. This offers potential for longer, multi-segment touring experiences, though some parts may require higher-grade tires due to gravel.
Where can I find amenities like cafes or pubs near the touring cycling routes?
Winooski's downtown area is a vibrant hub with various amenities, including cafes and pubs, conveniently located near many of the local trails and parks. The city's design connects its urban core with nearby natural areas, making it easy to find refreshments and services before or after your ride.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains?
Absolutely. Winooski's proximity to Lake Champlain means many routes offer stunning water and mountain views. The Winooski River to Shelburne Pond loop specifically highlights views of Lake Champlain and the distant Adirondack Mountains. The Burlington Greenway, which connects to the Colchester Bike Path at the Winooski River, also hugs the Lake Champlain shoreline, providing continuous scenic vistas.
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