The best traffic-free bike rides around Lake Champlain

There are over 40 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Lake Champlain, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels. You'll find 19 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option to explore.

The no-traffic routes around Lake Champlain offer diverse terrain. You can expect scenic country roads, gentle rolling farmlands, and tranquil forests. While many routes feature flat stretches, some isolated steep hills are present, providing options for various fitness levels. The majestic Adirondack and Green Mountains provide a stunning backdrop throughout your ride.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are suitable for families. The region's extensive bikeway networks, like the Burlington Greenway, offer safe and enjoyable experiences away from vehicle traffic. Routes such as the Burlington Greenway – Burlington Greenway loop from Lakeside are generally easy and perfect for a leisurely family ride.

Many routes offer breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains. A highlight is the Colchester Causeway, which allows you to cycle across Malletts Bay with stunning lake views. You can also visit attractions like the Granite Steps or experience the unique Lake Champlain bike ferry crossing. The Burlington Greenway – North Beach Section also offers beautiful waterfront scenery.

Yes, the Lake Champlain region features several circular no-traffic road cycling routes. These loops allow you to start and end at the same point, making logistics easier. An example is the Burlington Greenway – Waterfront Park loop from Lakeside, which offers a great circular experience.

The best time to cycle around Lake Champlain is typically from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the scenery is vibrant. Autumn offers spectacular fall foliage, making it a particularly picturesque time for a ride.

The no-traffic road cycling experience in Lake Champlain is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning lake and mountain views, the well-maintained car-free paths, and the peaceful atmosphere that allows for an immersive cycling experience.

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, the Lake Champlain Bikeways network offers extensive options, including 14 themed loops that can be combined for longer distances. A good example of a longer route is the Roadbike loop from Button Bay State Park, which covers over 43 km.

Access to various points along the Lake Champlain Bikeways network, including sections of the Burlington Greenway, can be facilitated by public transport in some of the larger towns like Burlington. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and bike-on-bus policies for specific routes and access points.

The Lake Champlain region is rich in history. While specific no-traffic routes might not pass directly through all historical sites, the broader Lake Champlain Bikeways network includes themed loops like the 'Iron to Iron' and 'Fort to Fort Loop' that explore the area's mining history and allow riders to visit significant sites like Crown Point State Historic Site and Fort Ticonderoga. Many routes offer views of historic bridges like the Colchester/Burlington bridge.

For autumn road biking in Lake Champlain, layering is key. Mornings can be cool, so a base layer, a long-sleeved jersey, and a light windproof or waterproof jacket are recommended. As the day warms up, you can shed layers. Don't forget gloves, a hat or headband for under your helmet, and bright clothing for visibility, especially with the changing light conditions.

Yes, especially along popular sections like the Burlington Greenway and in charming lakeside villages, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and small shops where you can stop for refreshments. Many routes are designed to pass through or near communities that cater to cyclists.