Church Street

The Cycle the City and Intervale Trail offers a unique blend of urban accessibility and natural tranquility, winding through the Winooski River Valley. You'll experience a mix of unpaved surfaces like woodchips and gravel, passing by working farms and lush green forests. This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hiking route provides scenic views across the Winooski River, making it a perfect escape for a relaxed outing.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily reached from Burlington. It's a multi-use path, so you'll share it with cyclists, but it remains a peaceful spot for walkers. The route is consistently rated as easy, with a gentle 241 feet (73 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 14 minutes. Dogs are permitted on leash, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on the unpaved Intervale sections after rain.

This trail stands out as a vital connector between Burlington's Old North End and New North End, offering an urban refuge from city bustle. The Intervale itself is a significant natural and agricultural area, home to a farmland cooperative promoting sustainable practices. It's a great way to experience Burlington's natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and wildlife, including migratory birds, all within an easy, beginner-friendly hike.

Embark on a long and rewarding journey with the Shelburne Bay loop from Downtown Burlington, a difficult hiking route that takes you from the city's bustling center to the tranquil shores of Lake Champlain. As you make your way, you'll transition from urban landscapes to the diverse environments of Shelburne Bay Park, where you can enjoy open meadows, shaded forests, and wetland overlooks, all while soaking in the stunning views of Shelburne Bay and Lake Champlain.

This substantial hike covers 15.7 miles (25.2 km) with 590 feet (180 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 6 hours and 34 minutes to complete. You can start directly from Downtown Burlington, or utilize public transport like the Green Mountain Transit Route 6 bus to reach Shelburne Bay Park. Remember that while the park's internal paths are generally easy, the full route from the city is a significant undertaking, and some sections can be muddy or icy depending on the weather.

Shelburne Bay Park, a 104-acre natural oasis, is a highlight of this route, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly birdwatching. The trail also connects to the historic Ti-Haul Trail, providing a glimpse into the region's past, and is dog-friendly for leashed pets. It's a fantastic option for experienced hikers looking for a full day's adventure with a mix of urban and natural scenery.

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.