The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lake Champlain
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Family friendly hiking trails around Lake Champlain offer diverse landscapes, from lake shorelines to forested paths and gentle hills. The region is characterized by its position between New York's Adirondack Mountains and Vermont's Green Mountains, providing varied terrain for outdoor exploration. Hikers can expect to find trails winding through floodplain forests, cedar pine forests, and unique cobble shorelines. The area's geology also features ancient fossil reefs and historical sites, adding depth to the hiking experience.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Lake Champlain
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Island Line Rail Trail, an 8.5 miles (13.6 km) moderate trail that takes about 3 hours 29 minutes to complete. This path offers expansive views of the lake and distant mountains.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Button Bay Trail, an easy 0.9 miles (1.4 km) path. This short trail provides access to scenic lake views and a peaceful natural setting.
- Local hikers also love the Valcour Island Primitive Area loop, a 6.4 miles (10.3 km) trail leading through forested areas along the island's shoreline, often completed in about 2 hours 38 minutes.
- Hiking around Lake Champlain is defined by mountain vistas, diverse forest ecosystems, and unique geological sites, including ancient fossil reefs. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging treks.
- The routes in Lake Champlain are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 1400 hikers have used komoot to explore Lake Champlain's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
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13.6km
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The Island Line Rail Trail offers an unparalleled experience of walking across Lake Champlain, particularly on its iconic 3-mile Colchester Causeway. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from paved paths through Burlington's lively waterfront to hard-packed crushed stone over the water, all while enjoying continuous views of the lake and distant mountains. It's a truly scenic route that makes you feel immersed in the natural beauty of Vermont, with the Winooski River Bridge providing another picturesque crossing.
This moderate 8.5-mile (13.6 km) hike, with a minimal 164 feet (50 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes. The trail is highly accessible with multiple entry points and parking, though some lots may charge a fee. If you plan to complete the full causeway, remember to check the operating schedule for the seasonal bike ferry that bridges a gap in the path.
Recognized by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame, this trail follows the historic route of the Rutland Railroad's Island Line. Its unique feature is the causeway, built from large marble chunks, which extends deep into Lake Champlain, offering a distinct perspective of the Green Mountains and Adirondacks. It's a fantastic option for an easy, high-reward outing that blends history with stunning natural vistas.
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Hike the easy 0.9-mile Button Bay Trail in Button Bay State Park for stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.
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10.3km
02:38
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Hike the moderate 6.4-mile Valcour Island Primitive Area loop, offering diverse terrain, historical sites like Bluff Point Lighthouse, and L
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This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) loop offers a delightful blend of history, panoramic views, and unique geological formations, all within a comfortable 1 hour and 32 minutes of hiking. You'll wander through the deep shaded woods of Ethan Allen Park on a mix of paved and dirt trails, some following old carriage roads, before reaching the historic Ethan Allen Tower with its sweeping vistas of Lake Champlain and distant mountains. The route then leads you to the fascinating Donahue Sea Caves, carved into limestone cliffs.
Planning your visit is simple, with parking available at Ethan Allen Park. The route connects the park to the sea caves area via the 127 Bike Path. For the best views from the Ethan Allen Tower, aim to hike between Mother's Day and Labor Day when it's open. If you're keen to explore the Donahue Sea Caves from the inside, consider a winter visit when the pond freezes over, making them accessible as "ice caves."
This trail stands out for its connection to one of the country's first public forest parks and its unique geological features. The Donahue Sea Caves, formed by ancient wave erosion, offer a glimpse into the region's past, especially striking in winter. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a high-reward, low-effort hike that combines natural beauty with a touch of local history, making it one of the best hiking trails near Burlington.
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Hike the moderate 7.2-mile Derway Island Loop through a nature preserve, offering views of the Winooski River, wetlands, and Lake Champlain.
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Tips from the Community
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.
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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.
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Burlington Union Station, located on Main Street on the Lake Champlain waterfront in Burlington, Vermont. This Beaux Arts-style building was constructed in 1916 and served as a hub for the Rutland Railroad and Central Vermont Railway. It ceased passenger services in 1953 but resumed its role in July 2022 as the northern terminal for Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express, connecting Burlington to New York City. The station features a single side platform serving both Amtrak and Vermont Railway excursion trains. Today it also houses offices and event spaces. Union Station is also known for its distinctive winged monkey statues added in the 1990s.
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Ethan Allen Park is an urban park located in Burlington, Vermont. Named after the Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen, it covers 60 acres and features a mix of wooded trails, open spaces, and picnic areas. A key attraction within the park is the Ethan Allen Tower, a historic stone observation tower offering panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Green Mountains.
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The Donahue Sea Caves are a unique natural feature located in Burlington on Lake Champlain. These caves were formed by wave erosion during periods of high lake levels, carving out these geological formations into the limestone cliffs. Accessible only during the winter when the lake freezes, the caves are a popular spot for adventurous visitors who want to explore their icy interior and enjoy a glimpse of the region’s natural history.
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Bluff Point Lighthouse was constructed in 1874 and in use until 1930. It was used to help guide ships through the channel between Valcour Island and New York State. Now, it is open to the public as a musuem.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Lake Champlain?
There are over 10 family-friendly hiking trails detailed in this guide, ranging from easy strolls to moderate adventures. The Lake Champlain region itself offers a vast network of trails, with the Champlain Area Trails (CATS) system alone boasting nearly 100 trails totaling over 200 miles.
Are there any easy, stroller-friendly walks around Lake Champlain?
Yes, several trails are suitable for strollers or those seeking very easy walks. The Island Line Rail Trail is a fantastic option, offering a mostly flat, paved path with beautiful lake views. The Terry Gordon Bike Path in Plattsburgh is another easy, paved route.
Which family-friendly trails offer the best views of Lake Champlain?
Many trails provide stunning vistas. The Island Line Rail Trail offers continuous views of the lake and mountains. Mount Philo State Park in Charlotte, Vermont, is renowned for its unparalleled views of the Champlain Valley and the Adirondacks, making it a great family destination.
Are there any loop hikes suitable for families?
Absolutely! The Ethan Allen Park & Donahue Sea Caves loop is an easy option that combines natural beauty with interesting geological features. Another great choice is the Derway Island Loop, offering a moderate experience through diverse ecosystems.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can we see along the trails?
The region is rich in natural and historical sites. Along some routes, you might encounter the Granite Steps or the Colchester/Burlington bridge. The Goodsell Ridge Fossil Preserve in Isle La Motte offers trails winding through a site with 480-million-year-old fossils, providing a unique educational experience for families.
Are there trails with parking facilities?
Most state parks and natural areas around Lake Champlain, such as Niquette Bay State Park and Mount Philo State Park, offer designated parking areas. Many of the trails listed in this guide, including the Button Bay Trail, have convenient parking nearby.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Lake Champlain?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails around Lake Champlain, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, stunning lake and mountain views, and the variety of trails suitable for all ages and skill levels. The well-maintained paths and opportunities to explore unique natural and historical sites are frequently highlighted.
Can we reach any of these trails using public transport?
While many trails are best accessed by car, some areas around Burlington, VT, offer public transport options that can get you closer to trailheads like Ethan Allen Park. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local bus schedules for Burlington and South Hero, VT, to plan your journey.
Are there any shorter, easy hikes perfect for young children?
For very young children or those new to hiking, the Button Bay Trail is an excellent choice. It's relatively short and easy, offering a pleasant walk through nature. Butternut Hill Natural Area also provides an easy hike through scenic woods to a shale beach.
What is the best time of year to hike with kids around Lake Champlain?
Spring, summer, and fall all offer wonderful conditions for family hiking. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer is perfect for combining hikes with swimming at beaches like Blanchard Beach or Texaco Beach, and fall provides spectacular foliage. Always check weather forecasts, especially during summer for heat and thunderstorms, and dress in layers.
Are there any trails that offer a unique natural experience, like wetlands or forests?
Yes, the region boasts diverse ecosystems. The Ironwood Nature Trail in Grand Isle, Vermont, features old ironwood trees, an observation tower, and wetland-forest plants. Eagle Mountain Natural Area in Milton also offers a spectacular forest with abundant wildlife, providing a rich natural experience for families.
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