Burlington, Vermont, is a cyclist’s dream. Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain and a stone’s throw from mountain trails, this vibrant city offers a diverse range of biking experiences. Whether you’re looking to cruise along scenic waterfront paths, tackle challenging mountain bike trails, or simply explore the charming downtown area, Burlington has something for every rider. And the best part? Getting on two wheels here is incredibly easy, thanks to a fantastic selection of Burlington Vt Bike Rental options.
Biking on the Burlington Waterfront – Summer
Navigating Burlington by bike is not only enjoyable but also incredibly convenient. The city’s commitment to cycling infrastructure, highlighted by initiatives like planBTV and user-friendly navigation apps such as Strava and Trail Finder, makes it simple to discover your perfect route. From beginners to seasoned cyclists, Burlington caters to all levels. Let’s dive into the best options for bike rentals in Burlington VT to get you started on your two-wheeled adventure.
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Top Spots for Burlington VT Bike Rental
When it comes to bike rentals in Burlington VT, you’re spoiled for choice. Whether you need a mountain bike for tackling trails, a comfortable cruiser for city streets, or an e-bike to explore further afield, Burlington’s rental shops have you covered. Here are some of the top-rated Burlington VT bike rental locations:
North Star Sports: Your Downtown Burlington Rental Hub
Located right on Main Street in Burlington, North Star Sports is a local institution with years of experience in outfitting adventurers. They offer comprehensive bike rental packages that are perfect for exploring the city and surrounding trails. Each rental includes essential gear like a helmet, repair kit, lock, lights for night riding, and even a water bottle to keep you hydrated. This makes North Star Sports a fantastic one-stop shop for visitors seeking a hassle-free Burlington VT bike rental experience.
Local Motion: Waterfront Bike Rentals and Island Line Trail Access
For the ultimate trailside Burlington VT bike rental experience, head to Local Motion. Situated in the heart of Burlington’s waterfront park, Local Motion provides rentals for adults and kids, including e-bike options. Their prime location offers immediate access to the renowned Island Line Trail. Imagine starting your ride right from their center and pedaling north, eventually crossing the breathtaking Colchester Causeway over Lake Champlain. For longer rides on the Island Line Trail, remember to pack water and snacks! Local Motion is ideally positioned for those wanting to explore Burlington’s famous bike path network.
Ski Rack: Expert Advice and Quality Bike Rentals in Burlington
Since 1969, Skirack has been the go-to bike shop in Burlington for cycling enthusiasts. While primarily a retail shop, they also offer a selection of high-quality bike rentals. The knowledgeable staff at Ski Rack are experts in all things cycling. They take the time to understand your needs and preferences to ensure you get the perfect bike for your Burlington adventure. If you value expert advice and a professionally fitted bike, Ski Rack is an excellent choice for Burlington VT bike rental.
Outdoor Gear Exchange (OGE): Rent a Bike and Explore from Church Street
Outdoor Gear Exchange, a beloved local favorite located on the Church Street Marketplace, offers a wide array of outdoor gear and services, including bike rentals. OGE’s central location is perfect for starting your Burlington exploration right from the pedestrian-friendly Church Street. From here, you can easily access both the northern and southern sections of the Burlington Greenway bike path, making OGE a highly convenient option for bike rentals in Burlington VT.
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Hotel Bike Rentals: Convenience at Your Doorstep in Burlington VT
For visitors staying in Burlington hotels, renting a bike can be even easier. Several hotels offer bike rentals directly to their guests, providing unparalleled convenience for exploring the city. Here are some hotels offering Burlington VT bike rental services:
Hotel Vermont: Complimentary Bikes for Guests
Hotel Vermont goes the extra mile for its guests by offering complimentary bike rentals. Guests can enjoy stylish and comfortable Budnitz Bicycles for up to two hours, perfect for a quick spin around downtown Burlington. Rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis, adding a fantastic perk to your stay at Hotel Vermont.
Hotel Champlain (Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain): Waterfront Rentals
The Hilton Burlington, situated right on the Burlington Waterfront, also provides bike rentals for hotel guests. With the Burlington Bike Path practically at their doorstep, guests can easily hop on a bike and explore the scenic waterfront. Rentals are first-come, first-served, and the hotel provides all the necessary gear for a comfortable ride.
Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown: Affordable Hourly Rentals
Located centrally between Church Street Marketplace and the waterfront, the Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown offers bike rentals to guests for a reasonable hourly fee. For just $10 per hour, guests can access bikes for exploring the city at their own pace, taking advantage of the hotel’s prime downtown location.
The Essex, Vermont’s Culinary Resort & Spa: Bikes and Trails Nearby
The Essex, a renowned culinary resort and spa just outside Burlington, also offers bike rentals to its guests. The resort’s location is ideal, with direct access to the Essex bike path and close proximity to the Saxon Hill trails for mountain biking. Guests at The Essex can easily combine relaxation with outdoor adventure.
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Explore Burlington’s Bike Routes, Trails, and Resources
Once you’ve secured your Burlington VT bike rental, it’s time to explore the incredible biking routes and trails the area has to offer. Here are some essential resources and popular routes:
Local Motion Maps & Routes: Your Guide to Burlington Biking
Local Motion provides a comprehensive collection of bike maps and routes for the Burlington area. Visit their website to access detailed maps and plan your cycling adventures. This is an invaluable resource for discovering both on-road and off-road biking options.
Trail Finder: Discover Trails Beyond Burlington
Trail Finder is a fantastic online resource for finding trails throughout Vermont and beyond, including the Burlington area. Their interactive map helps you locate trail networks perfect for hiking and biking, allowing you to explore beyond the city limits.
Burlington Bike Path: A Scenic Waterfront Must-Ride
The Burlington Bike Path, a 7.6-mile paved trail, is a must-do for any visitor. Starting at Oakledge Park and extending to the Winooski River mouth, this path offers stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. For a more peaceful experience, early morning rides are highly recommended to avoid crowds.
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Alternative Biking Options: Mountain Biking near Burlington
For those seeking a different kind of biking experience, consider mountain biking just outside Burlington:
Bolton Valley Mountain Bike Rentals: Lift-Serviced Thrills
Just a short 30-minute drive from Burlington, Bolton Valley Resort offers lift-serviced mountain biking. Rent mountain bikes at Bolton Valley and experience top-to-bottom trails suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experts. If you’re looking for thrilling downhill riding, Bolton Valley is worth the trip.
Old Spokes Home: Supporting Burlington’s Cycling Community
No discussion of Burlington VT bike rental is complete without mentioning Old Spokes Home. This local non-profit is dedicated to making cycling accessible to everyone in the Burlington community. They refurbish and repair bikes, making affordable transportation options available and promoting cycling knowledge. While primarily focused on bike sales and repair, Old Spokes Home is a valuable resource and a testament to Burlington’s strong cycling culture.
“At Old Spokes Home, you can always expect friendly and inclusive service regardless of age, race, identity, ability, or level of bike experience. We believe that anyone interested should have access to a bicycle and bicycle knowledge.” – Old Spokes Home
Get Ready to Ride Burlington!
With so many fantastic options for Burlington VT bike rental and an abundance of scenic routes and trails, Burlington is the perfect place to explore on two wheels. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, renting a bike is a fantastic way to experience the beauty and vibrancy of this Queen City. Remember to wear a helmet, ride responsibly, and enjoy the ride!
