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Island Line Trail - Burlington Waterfront Bike Path Description Both the 7.5 mile paved Burlington Bike Path and the 5 mile Colchester Causeway Trail are part of the spectacular Island line Trail. The Burlington Waterfront Bike Path, to the south is the pride of Burlington, Vermont's largest city, and urban riding at it's best with its bicycle and pedestrian friendly downtown. It runs north and south on a former railbed from the southern end of Burlington at Oakledge Park to the northern terminus at the mouth of the Winooski River where it meets up with the 5 mile unpaved Colchester - South Hero section of the Island Line Trail (see Other Area Rides above). A new trail bridge now connects the two trails. The route runs along Burlington's Waterfront, offering gorgeous Adirondack mountain views and Lake Champlain vistas. It parallels an active rail line for about two miles. Explore the many historic and cultural sites along or near the bicycle path, stop for a picnic and swim at North Beach, one of several waterfront parks along the route, or just relax on a bench to admire the sunset. The best place to start is from the historic Union Station located at the western end of Main Street in the heart of Burlington’s waterfront. Located next to the station is the Local Motion Trailside Center (802-652-2453), a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote safe bicycling and other recreational activities on the bike path. Cycling maps, air, info and advice are available as well as snacks and tables. Pick up the "Cycle the City" brochure for a 10-mile, self-guided historic loop tour which passes the historic Ethan Allen Homestead.
Some highlights along the Burlington Waterfront Bike Path include:
North Beach Located right off the Burlington Bike Path at the end of Institute Road off North Avenue. Facilties include swimming, picnic areas with grills, a full service snack bar and playground. A lifeguard is available from the end of June to August 22 and weekends up until Labor Day, weather permitting. An outfitter set up at the south end of the beach, offers kayak and canoe rentals as well as a variety of kayaking classes and expeditions on the lake. Hey! There is even a foot shower to wash your feet before putting your cycling shoes back on. Other beaches along the path are Leddy Park and Oakledge Park. Both offer a swimming beach (no lifeguards), grills and picnic tables and restrooms. Access is free to walkers, runners, bikers, and roller bladers via the Burlington Bike Path.
North Beach Campground Camp right along Lake Champlain. Operated by the Burlington Department of Parks and Recreation, it offers a premier municipal sand beach, shaded campsites and picnic grounds. The Burlington Bike Path goes right through the campground, making it a very convenient overnight stop on a longer trip or a weekend cycling getaway. Reservations: 1-800-571-1198
Urban Reserve An industrial site until the 1960s, the Urban Reserve was purchased and cleaned up by the city of Burlington to preserve forty-five acres of prime waterfront property as a "land bank" for future generations. Residents have the challenge and opportunity to participate in planning for it's future. The reserve is open to the public for walking, fishing, birdwatching, biking and offers nice lake views.
Ethan Allen Homestead Situated in an idyllic setting overlooking a quiet stretch of the Winooski River. Learn about Vermont's most unusual and flamboyant folk hero and life in the 18th century. The homestead and grounds are open from sunrise to sunset. Enjoy the spectacular scenery, riverside picnic areas and walking trails. (no restrooms available). Phone: 802-865-4556 (www.ethanallenhomestead.org)
Other Resources: Getting there by Bus The CCTA 11, the FREE College Street shuttle is a primary link from the Bike Path to downtown Burlington and the University of Vermont. All CCTA buses are equipped with easy to use bike racks, which hold 2 bikes. See www.cctaride.org for schedules.
For More Information: Burlington Parks and Recreation. Phone: (802) 864-0123 Website: Burlington Parks & Recreation
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