Imagine cycling on what feels like water, surrounded by breathtaking lake views stretching to distant mountains. That’s the magic of the Burlington Bike Path and Colchester Causeway, a ride so unique it might just look like you’re biking across Lake Champlain itself on your Strava map.
(A Strava Screen grab of the Colchester Causeway)
While a closer look reveals the causeway’s structure, the sensation of being surrounded by water is undeniable. This is an exceptionally cool bike ride, one that we aimed to amplify with a trip on the famed bike ferry, though it was unfortunately closed during our visit. Perhaps next time, adding another layer of adventure to this already incredible experience.
Burlington’s Charm, Amplified by the Bikeway
Burlington Waterfront near the Burlington Bikeway and Colchester Causeway
Scenic Burlington Waterfront along the Burlington Greenway, leading to the Colchester Causeway.
Let’s rewind a moment. Our family has a cabin nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain in Vermont. For several summers, my wife Mary and I have hosted cycling enthusiast friends for lakeside getaways. In previous years, our cycling adventures focused on longer routes, including overnight trips to Burlington, followed by a ferry journey across the lake for the ride back home – a satisfying 90-mile loop.
While these longer rides were fantastic, we realized we were overlooking a treasure right in front of us. Eager to conquer hills and rack up miles, we initially dismissed the local bike path, perhaps prejudiced by its gentle terrain, and the thought of sharing it with rollerbladers and families with strollers.
Cyclists on the Burlington Greenway
We were mistaken.
This year, armed with our gravel bikes and a desire for something different, we drove to Burlington, a city known for its laid-back vibe and appreciation for the outdoors. Our plan: an overnight stay followed by exploring the renowned bikeway and causeway.
Discovering the Burlington Bikeway
Our luxurious accommodation at Hotel Vermont provided a perfect starting point, a mere two-block downhill roll to Waterfront Park. According to the Local Motion map, our adventure began around mile marker 2 of the route, dictated by ongoing construction which conveniently guided us to this entry point.
Starting point of the Burlington Greenway at the Leahy Center, leading towards Colchester Causeway.
The Leahy Center on Burlington’s Waterfront, a popular access point to the Burlington Greenway and Colchester Causeway. The energy at the waterfront was infectious. An ice cream stand buzzed with activity, and the parking area was a constant flow of vehicles unloading and loading bikes. Adding to the vibrant scene were cyclists already on the path, dog walkers, and people relaxing on blankets, soaking up the sun. It was the perfect atmosphere to kick off a ride.
Fueling Up with Lakeside Breakfast
We immersed ourselves in the lively atmosphere from the outdoor seating of The Skinny Pancake restaurant. A short wait, due to COVID-related seating limitations, was well worth it.
The Bikeway itself is a well-maintained paved path with a clear yellow centerline. This popular route sees considerable traffic, emphasizing the importance of path etiquette. The constant flow of users requires attentiveness. To accommodate various users, packed gravel shoulders flank the paved section, providing ideal space for walkers and runners, and keeping the smooth pavement clear for cyclists.
Soon after starting, however, the need for vigilance might be challenged by the irresistible urge to gaze left, across the harbor, towards the majestic Adirondack Mountains gracing the New York State skyline. It’s a vista that rivals any view, anywhere.
Panoramic view of the Adirondack Mountains across Lake Champlain from the Burlington Greenway.
The breathtaking Adirondack Mountain range as seen across the expansive Lake Champlain. Words and pictures hardly capture its grandeur.
Around the four-mile mark, a sign subtly advertised cold beer and margaritas just a slight detour away. A mental note was made for the return journey.
The ride continues to be picturesque for the next few miles, with the scenery alternating between stretches of natural beauty and glimpses into the backyards of charming waterfront homes – elegant yet understated, avoiding the ostentatious displays sometimes found in waterfront communities.
Embarking on the Colchester Causeway
Cyclist pausing at The Cut on the Colchester Causeway, Lake Champlain.
Posing at “The Cut” on the Colchester Causeway, highlighting the unique experience of cycling amidst Lake Champlain.
After a few more miles, the Bikeway meandered through a small residential area before transitioning to gravel. This marked our entry onto the Colchester Causeway.
A smile crept across my face.
After all, we were riding gravel bikes.
Complete with the full cycling ensemble – Lycra shorts, matching jerseys, and helmets.
Gravel bikes ready for the Colchester Causeway ride.
Gravel bikes, including a Fuji Jari, Trek Checkpoint, and Canyon Grails, perfectly suited for the Colchester Causeway adventure.
Perhaps we were slightly over-equipped. We observed a diverse array of bicycles, many of which would not be categorized as modern “gravel” bikes. Numerous resurrected bikes from garages, children’s bikes, and vintage mountain bikes were in use. I felt a touch overdressed, like wearing a tuxedo to a barbecue.
Not really, it was perfectly comfortable. The point is, this route is wonderfully flat and accessible, ideal for locals, tourists, and even those just learning to ride. Our group’s full-gravel setup, while enjoyable, wasn’t strictly necessary.
But I digress, again.
This was pure fun.
The Allure of the Colchester Causeway
Group of cyclists enjoying the Colchester Causeway trail.
Cyclists of all ages and bike types enjoying the scenic Colchester Causeway on Lake Champlain.
It wasn’t long before we were fully immersed in the causeway experience. This former railway line extends directly into Lake Champlain, seemingly vanishing into the water’s expanse.
Then, abruptly, the trail breaks. A significant gap, “The Cut,” allows boat traffic to navigate through the causeway. This is essential, as Lake Champlain, the largest lake in the US outside of the Great Lakes, connects to a vast network of waterways. From the St. Lawrence Seaway in the north to the Erie Canal and Champlain Canal to the south, one could theoretically sail from here all the way to the Atlantic Ocean and beyond.
Even I recognize that global maritime travel shouldn’t be restricted for the sake of a bike path.
Fortunately, most of the time, a bike ferry bridges this gap. For a nominal fee, it efficiently transports cyclists and their bikes across The Cut, allowing you to continue exploring the causeway and beyond, reaching Grand Isle in the heart of the lake.
Bike Ferry crossing "The Cut" on Colchester Causeway. Photo Courtesy Local Motion
The Local Motion Bike Ferry provides seamless passage across “The Cut” on the Colchester Causeway.
Sailboat navigating "The Cut" through the Colchester Causeway.
A sailboat gracefully passes through “The Cut” in the Colchester Causeway, showcasing the active waterway.
The good news: a $1.6 million repair project on the causeway had concluded two months ahead of schedule in September. The less fortunate news: the bike ferry wasn’t yet operational following the repairs. We were just a couple of days too early to experience this key element of the causeway ride.
Lake Champlain’s Lakeside Relaxation
Refreshing beer at a lakeside cafe near the Burlington Greenway.
A well-deserved cold beer and burger reward at a lakeside cafe after a ride on the Burlington Greenway.
Consequently, we turned back, the earlier sign promising refreshing beverages now firmly in our minds.
The Beach House was indeed open, though operating on limited hours. Despite what should have been a bustling day, they were closing early due to COVID-related challenges and reduced customer traffic.
Nevertheless, we enjoyed sandwiches, fries, and a cold drink, a perfect lakeside break before the short ride back to our car.
I suspect our days of tackling the demanding loop from the cabin to Burlington and back are behind us. Riding right here, within Burlington itself, is simply too enjoyable. And next year, the bike ferry awaits.
The Beach House restaurant in Burlington, Vermont.
The Beach House in Burlington, a perfect spot to relax and refuel after exploring the Burlington Greenway and Colchester Causeway.
One final thought.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent shortages of bicycles and cycling gear did slightly dampen our usual Burlington visit. Burlington boasts fantastic bike shops and normally, bike shopping is a significant part of our trip. However, due to pandemic-related supply issues, options were limited.
Hopefully, ample inventory will return in the years to come.
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