The best cycling routes in Chittenden County

The Cross Vermont Trail offers a truly unique touring cycling experience, weaving its way through the heart of Vermont's natural beauty. This difficult 49.1-mile (79.1 km) route, with 1955 feet (596 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 5 hours and 31 minutes to complete, presenting a diverse tapestry of landscapes. You'll pedal through lush forests, past serene farm country, and along the banks of the Winooski River, encountering a mix of paved, gravel, and dirt surfaces that demand a hybrid or mountain bike for comfortable travel.

Planning your ride on the Cross Vermont Trail requires a bit of preparation due to its varied terrain; a sturdy hybrid or mountain bike is highly recommended over a road bike. Access points and parking are available in the numerous communities the trail connects, making it flexible for day trips or longer tours. The best time to experience the trail is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when the weather is cooperative and all sections are typically clear of snow.

What makes the Cross Vermont Trail truly stand out is its ambitious vision as an evolving, multi-use pathway that actively connects 18 communities across Vermont. This ongoing project aims to create a seamless off-road route from Lake Champlain to the Connecticut River, serving as both a recreational asset and an economic engine for the towns along its path. It's a testament to community effort, inspiring similar projects like the Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail, and offers a fantastic Cross Vermont Trail overview for those exploring the state by bike.

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.

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.

The Komoot route "Shelburne to Lewis Creek Natural Area" is a moderate 27.4 miles (44.1 km) touring cycling journey with 1360 feet (414 metres) of elevation gain, estimated to take around 2 hours and 59 minutes. This route is more of a conceptual connection than a dedicated trail, linking the scenic roads around Shelburne, Vermont, with the idea of reaching a Lewis Creek Natural Area. You'll likely experience rolling terrain and river valleys, potentially passing landmarks like LaPlatte River Falls and the historic Sequin Covered Bridge, but be prepared for varied surfaces and the need to navigate existing road networks rather than a continuous, purpose-built bike path. It's a route for the adventurous touring cyclist who enjoys piecing together a unique ride.

Planning your Shelburne to Lewis Creek Natural Area touring cycling overview requires careful attention to local road conditions and specific access rules for any natural areas you intend to visit. Parking and amenities are readily available in Shelburne, but the suitability of Lewis Creek areas for touring bikes varies greatly by location and may involve unpaved sections or restrictions. Always verify current regulations and trail conditions before you go, especially if you're looking for Lewis Creek Natural Area Vermont cycling trails. The best season for cycling in Vermont is generally from late spring to early fall, offering pleasant weather and clear roads.

While there isn't a single, continuous bike path connecting Shelburne, VT, and a Lewis Creek Natural Area, the region offers diverse cycling opportunities. The Shelburne area itself provides various road cycling routes with picturesque views. Lewis Creek Natural Area in Hinesburg, Vermont, is known for its ecological significance, though its trails are primarily for hiking. This Komoot route serves as a challenging option for those seeking to explore the broader region by bike, combining established roads with the potential to link to natural areas, making it a unique way to experience Chittenden County.

The Burlington Greenway – Colchester/Burlington bridge loop offers a unique touring bicycle experience, blending urban waterfront paths with a remarkable causeway extending into Lake Champlain. You'll cycle along paved sections with continuous views of the lake and the distant Adirondack Mountains, then transition to packed gravel on the Colchester Causeway, which feels like riding directly on the water. This moderate route is largely flat, making it an enjoyable ride for most skill levels, and provides excellent opportunities for bird spotting in areas like Delta Park.

To plan your visit, you'll find ample parking at locations such as Oakledge Park, Airport Park, and Leddy Park, ensuring easy access to the trail. Restrooms are conveniently located at various points along the path. If you're riding between spring and fall, be aware of the seasonal Bike Ferry that bridges a 200-foot gap in the Colchester Causeway; its operation is essential for completing the full 26.6-mile (42.8 km) loop, which typically takes about 2 hours and 28 minutes.

This route is a significant part of the larger Island Line Trail, originally a Central Vermont Railway line, offering a glimpse into the region's history. The highlight is undoubtedly the Colchester Causeway, a three-mile stretch into Lake Champlain that provides expansive vistas. With only 523 feet (159 metres) of elevation gain, it's a high-reward, low-effort ride that integrates natural beauty with urban amenities, making it a popular choice for both recreation and commuting.