The best hikes from bus stations around Lake Champlain

The Waterfront Park – Colchester/Burlington bridge loop offers a unique opportunity to hike far out into Lake Champlain on the historic Colchester Causeway, providing panoramic views of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains. You'll traverse varied terrain, from the natural dirt paths of the Arms Park Trails near Burlington High School to the paved Burlington Greenway, and cross a graceful bridge over the Winooski River. It's a mostly flat and easy route, perfect for soaking in the lakeside atmosphere.

For planning your trip, note that parking might be available at Burlington High School, but check for restrictions. If you intend to cross the entire Colchester Causeway, remember that a seasonal bike ferry operates from Memorial Day to Labor Day to bridge a gap in the causeway. This 10.5-mile (16.9 km) moderate hike, with only 335 feet (102 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 4 hours and 22 minutes, making it a great half-day adventure.

This popular trail, also known as the Island Line Trail or Burlington Greenway, is incredibly accessible and family-friendly, welcoming dogs on leash. Beyond the stunning natural beauty, you'll pass by points of interest like ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, and the Burlington Community Boathouse, with opportunities for amenities and even swinging benches at Waterfront Park. It’s one of the best hiking routes in Burlington, Vermont, for experiencing the city's waterfront.

The Burlington Greenway – Waterfront Park loop from Lakeside offers a delightful blend of urban accessibility and stunning natural scenery, making it one of the most popular trails for a relaxed outing. This multi-use path provides continuous, sweeping views of Lake Champlain, with the Adirondack Mountains in the distance, as you pass through Waterfront Park and along various beaches. The terrain is mostly paved and flat, making this 6.4-mile (10.3 km) route, with its minimal 98 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, a moderate and enjoyable experience that takes about 2 hours and 37 minutes.

Planning your Lakeside hiking adventure is simple, as the Greenway is easily accessible and well-maintained year-round, even plowed in winter for activities like cross-country skiing. You'll find convenient restrooms along the path, and its gentle nature makes it a fantastic family-friendly option. There's no need for special permits or fees, just show up and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings.

This loop is a significant part of the longer Island Line Trail, which famously extends three miles into Lake Champlain on a unique causeway. A seasonal bike ferry connects this causeway to the Champlain Islands, offering an even more distinct experience if you're looking to extend your exploration. The trail masterfully integrates urban amenities like public art and nearby eateries with the tranquility of the lake and mountain views.

This Downtown Burlington & Centennial Woods Natural Area loop offers a unique blend of urban exploration and natural serenity, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll start amidst the vibrant streets of Downtown Burlington, perhaps even passing through Church Street, before diving into the diverse ecosystems of Centennial Woods. Expect to wander through mature conifer stands, cross boardwalks over wetlands, and spot beaver dams along the way, all within a 5.6-mile (8.9 km) moderate hike.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the loop easily accessible from the city center. While the trail is generally easy to moderate, some sections can be hilly, and you should be prepared for muddy conditions, especially if you visit in early spring. The estimated duration for this hike is around 2 hours and 26 minutes, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

Centennial Woods Natural Area is a true hidden gem, serving as a vital wildlife corridor and a living laboratory for UVM students. Despite its urban location, it provides a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere, attracting 152 recorded bird species. This trail is an excellent choice if you're looking for a family-friendly hike or a quiet escape into nature without venturing far from Burlington's amenities.

The Rock Point – Lone Rock Point loop from Ethan Allen Park offers a fantastic blend of forest paths and stunning lake views right in Burlington, Vermont. You'll traverse varied terrain, from shaded woodland trails to the dramatic rocky cliffs and sandy stretches along Lake Champlain, with distant Adirondack Mountains visible across the water. It's a journey that feels much more remote than its urban setting suggests, perfect for a refreshing escape.

This moderate 5.6-mile (9.0 km) hiking loop involves about 246 feet (75 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 2 hours and 21 minutes. The trail system is well-marked with recent renovations, and you can access Rock Point via the 127 Bike Path from Ethan Allen Park. Be prepared for some steeper, potentially slippery sections near the cliff edges, especially if conditions are wet.

Beyond the scenic beauty, the route is notable for its geological significance, showcasing the Champlain Thrust Fault at Lone Rock Point where older rock layers are visibly pushed over younger ones. Don't miss the chance to climb the Ethan Allen Tower for exceptional panoramic views of the city, Lake Champlain, and surrounding mountains, making this a truly rewarding urban wilderness experience.