Island Line Trail

The trail offers a varied surface. The southern 7 to 8 miles, starting in Burlington, are paved. As you head north, especially across the Colchester Causeway, the surface transitions to crushed stone or compacted gravel for about 5 miles. While generally easy to ride, some gravel sections can be soft. Gravel bikes and other bicycle types are well-suited for the entire route, but road bikes with narrow tires are not recommended for the unpaved portions.

The trail is largely considered an easy and flat ride, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels, including families and beginners. The primary challenge you might encounter is a strong headwind, particularly when out on the exposed Colchester Causeway.

The Island Line Trail is known for its spectacular scenery. You'll enjoy expansive waterfront views of Lake Champlain, with the Adirondack Mountains to the west and Vermont's Green Mountains to the east. Key highlights include the Burlington Greenway, the trail bridge over the Winooski River, and the iconic Colchester Causeway, a 3-mile stretch extending into Lake Champlain that offers a unique sensation of 'skimming the water's surface'.

Yes, a unique feature of the trail is the seasonal bike ferry operated by Local Motion. This ferry bridges a 200-foot gap, known as 'the Cut,' in the Colchester Causeway, allowing for continuous travel across the lake to South Hero.

The trail is enjoyable through many seasons. Spring, summer, and fall offer pleasant conditions for cycling, with vibrant foliage in autumn. The bike ferry typically operates seasonally, so check its schedule if you plan to cross 'the Cut'. Strong headwinds can be a factor, especially on the exposed causeway, regardless of the season.

Yes, the Island Line Trail is generally dog-friendly as a multi-use path. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other trail users. Please clean up after your pet to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and use the Island Line Trail. It is a public multi-use path.

There are numerous parks along the trail, particularly in Burlington and Colchester, that offer parking. For example, you can often find parking near the start of the Burlington Greenway or at parks adjacent to the trail in Colchester. Specific parking availability can vary, so checking local park websites for details is recommended.

Yes, the route is part of a larger network. It covers 96% of the official Island Line Trail and also passes through sections of the USBR 7 (Vermont), Champlain Bikeway, and Cycle the City and Intervale, among others.

Yes, the Island Line Trail is a multi-use path that can be used in winter. Some sections are plowed, making it suitable for activities like cross-country skiing or winter biking, depending on snow conditions. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Yes, as a multi-use trail, there are numerous parks along the way that offer amenities such as restrooms, swimming areas, and picnic spots. In Burlington, you'll find various cafes and restaurants easily accessible from the trail. For specific locations, it's best to consult a map or local guides.