The best traffic-free bike rides around Burlington
4.7
(16)
1,019
riders
13
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Burlington are characterized by their scenic location on the shores of Lake Champlain, with views of the Adirondack Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east. The city features an extensive network of paved multi-use paths, including the Burlington Greenway and the Colchester Causeway, which extends into Lake Champlain. Cyclists can also explore quieter country roads that wind through the surrounding rural areas, offering varied terrain from flat lakeside stretches to gentle inland climbs.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Burlington
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Burlington Greenway – Waterfront Park loop from Lakeside, a 21.3 miles (34.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 26 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers continuous scenic views along the Lake Champlain shoreline.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Waterfront Park – Colchester/Burlington bridge loop from Burlington, an easy 21.6 miles (34.8 km) path. This route provides expansive views of Lake Champlain and connects to the unique Colchester Causeway.
- Local road cyclists also love the Colchester/Burlington bridge – Waterfront Park loop from Ethan Allen Park, a 10.0 miles (16.1 km) trail leading through the Lake Champlain shoreline and the Colchester Causeway, often completed in about 39 minutes.
- Road cycling around Burlington is defined by the Lake Champlain shoreline, the unique Colchester Causeway, and access to peaceful country roads. The network offers options for easy cruises along the water as well as more moderate rides with varied terrain.
- The routes in Burlington are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from 7 reviews. More than 900 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Burlington's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.4
(5)
292
riders
36.9km
01:41
160m
160m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
80
riders
38.7km
01:37
140m
140m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
33
riders
86.4km
04:20
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
38
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
11
riders
8.29km
00:29
50m
50m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Burlington
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.
0
0
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.
1
0
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.
0
0
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.
1
0
The Porter Natural Area is a 56-acre nature preserve that is made up of wetlands and forests. The Colchester Causeway Trail passes through the preserve and brings you up close with the beautiful landscape.
1
0
The Burlington Greenway Bike/Walk Path is a jewel of our parks system and popular attraction all year round. Featuring eight miles of paved path, with aggregate shoulders for runners and walkers. Situated on the Lake Champlain shoreline, the path starts south of Oakledge park and runs north to the Winooski River. Along the way, the Greenway connects many major parks and facilities with residential neighborhoods and downtown Burlington commercial districts. The path is part of the Island Line Trail. The northern end of the Greenway features a few miles of packed gravel on a narrow causeway over western Lake Champlain, making for a spectacular view. Take the seasonal Bike Ferry to continue riding into the Champlain Islands. If you’re planning a bike trip, be sure to check out the helpful information on Local Motion’s website Restrooms (seasonal) are available at several points along the path: List of Public Restrooms Want to ride the path, but don’t have a bike? Check out these places for bike rentals. Be aware of ongoing construction on the Greenway, including engineering upgrades, updates for increased capacity, new “pause places”, and connections with recreation facilities. View the interactive map At certain times, the section of Path in Waterfront Park may be closed during events. Please read our official Path Closure Policy. Make sure to follow our guidelines for safe use:
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Burlington?
There are currently 11 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Burlington featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of distances and experiences, primarily utilizing the extensive car-free paths along Lake Champlain.
What are the main car-free cycling paths in Burlington?
The primary car-free cycling paths in Burlington are the Burlington Greenway (also known as the Island Line Trail) and its extension, the Colchester Causeway. The Greenway offers 7.6 miles of paved path along the Lake Champlain shoreline, while the Causeway extends 6 miles out into the lake, featuring a unique packed gravel surface and a seasonal bike ferry connection to the Champlain Islands.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, Burlington offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. For example, the Colchester/Burlington bridge – Waterfront Park loop from Ethan Allen Park is an easy 16 km route. Many sections of the Burlington Greenway are also flat and well-maintained, making them ideal for all skill levels.
What is the typical length and duration of these no-traffic routes?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Burlington vary in length. You can find shorter loops like the Granite Steps – Waterfront Park loop from Howard Mortuary Chapel at just over 10 km, which takes around 35 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Waterfront Park – Delta Park loop from Burlington, can extend up to 87 km and take several hours to complete, offering a more extensive exploration of the area.
What kind of scenic viewpoints or attractions can I expect along these routes?
Burlington's no-traffic routes offer stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Key attractions include the Waterfront Park, the unique Colchester/Burlington bridge, and the scenic Colchester Causeway. You can also visit Granite Steps and the Blanchard Beach for picturesque stops.
Are there any loop routes for no-traffic road cycling in Burlington?
Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in Burlington are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Burlington Greenway – Waterfront Park loop from Lakeside and the Waterfront Park – Colchester/Burlington bridge loop from Burlington, which provide circular journeys along the lakefront and causeway.
What is the best season for no-traffic road biking in Burlington?
The best season for no-traffic road biking in Burlington is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the paths are clear. While some paths may be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, so it's best to check local trail conditions.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic cycling in Burlington?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning lake views, the well-maintained car-free paths like the Burlington Greenway and Colchester Causeway, and the overall peaceful cycling experience away from vehicle traffic.
Are these routes suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The predominantly flat and paved surfaces of the Burlington Greenway and many other no-traffic routes make them very family-friendly. The absence of vehicle traffic ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for cyclists of all ages, including children. Shorter loops and sections are ideal for younger riders.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Parking is generally available at various access points along the Burlington Greenway and near popular parks. For instance, you can often find parking near Waterfront Park, Oakledge Park, or other public access points to the multi-use paths. It's advisable to check specific parking availability for your chosen starting point.
How can I check the current conditions of the no-traffic road bike trails?
For the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, especially for the Burlington Greenway and Colchester Causeway, it's best to consult local resources. The City of Burlington's official website often provides updates on the Greenway. You can also check community forums or local cycling groups for recent reports.
Most popular routes around Burlington
Most popular attractions around Burlington
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
