Burlington, Vermont, is a city designed to be explored on two wheels. With an extensive network of bike paths and trails, you can easily traverse the scenic waterfront of Lake Champlain, venture into lush green spaces, and discover charming neighborhoods. Whether you’re a local looking for a leisurely ride or a visitor eager to experience Burlington’s beauty, finding the perfect bike rental in Burlington VT is your first step to an unforgettable adventure. Luckily, Burlington offers a variety of bike rental options to suit every need and cycling style.
Biking on the Burlington Waterfront – Summer
Exploring the Burlington Waterfront on a rented bicycle during summer, showcasing the scenic bike path and vibrant atmosphere.
Navigating Burlington by bike is incredibly user-friendly, thanks to resources like planBTV and apps like Strava and Trail Finder that highlight the best routes in Chittenden County. From beginner-friendly paths to challenging trails, Burlington caters to all levels of cyclists. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of top Burlington VT bike rental shops and resources to ensure you have everything you need for your two-wheeled exploration.
Local Motion, a popular bike rental and trailside center in Burlington, Vermont, offering rentals for all ages and cycling preferences.
Top Spots for Bike Rental in Burlington VT
Finding the right bike rental in Burlington VT is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Here are some highly recommended rental shops:
North Star Sports: Located in downtown Burlington on Main Street, North Star Sports is a long-established local favorite. They offer comprehensive bike rental packages perfect for exploring the city and beyond. Their rentals include essential gear such as helmets, repair kits, locks, lights for evening rides, and even water bottles to keep you hydrated. Whether you need a mountain bike, road bike, or something in between, North Star Sports has you covered for your Burlington Vermont bike rental needs.
Local Motion: Situated right on the Burlington waterfront, Local Motion is ideally placed for immediate access to the Island Line Trail. They specialize in bike rentals for all ages, including kids’ bikes and e-bikes for those looking for a little extra boost. Renting from Local Motion allows you to easily hop onto the Island Line Trail and explore the Colchester Causeway, a unique bike path extending into Lake Champlain. Remember to pack snacks and water if you plan to cycle the full length of this scenic trail when you rent a bike in Burlington.
Skirack: A Burlington institution since 1969, Skirack’s bike shop is renowned for its expertise in cycling. While primarily a bike shop, they also offer rentals. Skirack prides themselves on providing personalized service to help you find the perfect bike for your needs and ensure a professional fit. If you’re looking for expert advice and quality bike rentals Burlington VT, Skirack is a top choice.
Outdoor Gear Exchange (OGE): Another beloved local spot, Outdoor Gear Exchange is located on the bustling Church Street Marketplace. OGE offers a variety of bikes for rent, perfect for starting your ride right from Burlington’s pedestrian-friendly center. Rent a bike here to easily explore both the North and South Ends of Burlington, taking advantage of the city’s dedicated bike lanes and paths. OGE is a convenient option for Burlington bike rentals right in the heart of the action.
Complimentary bike rentals at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, offering guests a stylish and convenient way to explore the city.
Hotels Offering Bike Rentals in Burlington
For added convenience, several Burlington hotels offer bike rentals directly to their guests:
Hotel Vermont: Exclusively for hotel guests, Hotel Vermont provides complimentary bike rentals, available on a first-come, first-served basis for up to two hours. Their fleet of stylish Budnitz Bicycles allows you to explore Burlington in comfort and sophistication, making it a unique perk for guests looking for easy bike rental in Burlington.
Hotel Champlain (Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain): Situated on the Burlington Waterfront, the Hilton Burlington also offers bike rentals for guests, subject to availability. Its prime location means you can quickly access the Burlington Bike Path right from the hotel. Whether you’re planning a long ride or a relaxing sunset cycle, they provide the necessary gear for a seamless Burlington VT bike rental experience.
Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown: Centrally located between Church Street Marketplace and the waterfront, the Hilton Garden Inn offers bike rentals for hotel guests at a reasonable $10 per hour. This hotel provides easy access to key Burlington attractions, making it a great starting point for your cycling adventures with convenient bike rentals Burlington.
The Essex, Vermont’s Culinary Resort & Spa: Located a short drive from downtown Burlington, The Essex Resort offers bike rentals to guests. It’s also conveniently located near the Essex bike path and the Saxon Hill trails, providing options for both leisurely rides and more adventurous off-road biking. Guests looking to combine relaxation with outdoor activities will find The Essex a great option for bike rental near Burlington.
Red Rocks Park Burlington Bike Path Views
Scenic views from the Burlington Bike Path at Red Rocks Park, showcasing the natural beauty accessible by bike in Burlington.
Explore Burlington’s Bike Routes and Trails
Once you have your bike rental in Burlington VT, it’s time to explore the amazing bike routes and trails the city has to offer:
Local Motion Maps & Routes: Local Motion is an invaluable resource, providing comprehensive maps and route suggestions for biking in and around Burlington. Visit their website for detailed maps to help plan your perfect cycling route and discover hidden gems throughout the area.
Trail Finder: For discovering trail networks in Burlington and beyond, Trail Finder is an excellent tool. Their online map highlights various trails, catering to different skill levels and preferences, from paved paths to mountain biking trails.
Burlington Bike Path: Stretching 7.6 miles from Oakledge Park to the Winooski River mouth, the Burlington Bike Path is a must-ride. This scenic path offers stunning views of Lake Champlain and passes through waterfront parks and beaches. For a less crowded experience, early mornings are highly recommended to fully enjoy this popular route on your Burlington bike rental.
Mountain biking on trails near Burlington, Vermont, offering an adventurous alternative to city paths for bike enthusiasts.
Alternative Biking Options: Mountain Biking
For those seeking a more adventurous cycling experience with their Bike Rental Burlington Vt, consider mountain biking:
Bolton Valley: Just a short 30-minute drive from Burlington, Bolton Valley Resort offers fantastic mountain biking options. With lift-serviced trails and uphill routes for all skill levels, from beginners to experts, Bolton Valley is a premier destination for mountain bike enthusiasts. They also offer mountain bike rentals, making it easy to experience world-class terrain near Burlington.
Old Spokes Home, a Burlington non-profit bike shop, promoting affordable and accessible cycling for the community.
Supporting Local Cycling: Old Spokes Home
Old Spokes Home is a unique and valuable part of the Burlington cycling community. This non-profit organization refurbishes and repairs old bicycles, making cycling accessible and affordable for everyone. Located in Burlington, Old Spokes Home provides friendly and inclusive service to all, regardless of experience level. By supporting Old Spokes Home, you contribute to a more bike-friendly and equitable Burlington. While they primarily sell and repair bikes, they are a fantastic resource for any cyclist in the area.
Conclusion: Your Burlington Bike Adventure Awaits
With numerous bike rental Burlington VT options and an extensive network of scenic routes, Burlington is the perfect city to explore by bicycle. Whether you choose a leisurely ride along the waterfront, an adventurous mountain biking excursion, or a comfortable cruise through downtown, renting a bike is your ticket to experiencing Burlington like a local. Remember to wear a helmet, ride safely, and enjoy the ride! Start planning your Burlington cycling adventure today and discover the beauty of Vermont on two wheels.
