The Lake Champlain Islands offer plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, from peaceful woodland walks to trails with beautiful lake views. Whether you're looking for a quick stroll or a longer outing, here are 10 local trails to explore across the Islands.
1. Island Line Trail Recreation Path
Location: South Hero, VT
From South Hero, access the trail at 36 Martin Road. The trail follows a dirt road toward the lake and the causeway. Keep in mind that the causeway has a gap known as “the Cut,” and the seasonal bike ferry is now closed for the season. You can still enjoy the trail up to the Cut, about 1.8 miles from the South Hero trailhead, but you won’t be able to cross the gap by ferry until it resumes service.
The section is part of the iconic Island Line Trail, a 14-mile rail connecting South Hero and Burlington along the shores of Lake Champlain. Run, bike, or even roller skate on the path while enjoying views of the Adirondack and Green Mountains. One of the main highlights of the trail is the Colchester Causeway, a narrow stretch built along a former railroad bed, with Lake Champlain on either side.
2. Butternut Hill Natural Area
Location: North Hero, VT
Located at Camp Ingalls in North Hero, this mile-long trail offers an easy hike through scenic woods with a shale beach at the end. The path winds through floodplain forests, cedar pine forests, and cobble shorelines while providing a tremendous southerly view of Lake Champlain.
3. Fox Hill Trail
Location: South Hero, VT
Fox Hill Trail is a short, uphill hike in South Hero with amazing views of The Island Line Trail recreation path, Snow Farm Vineyard, and Lake Champlain. The trail is located at Snow Farm Vineyard, so stop by the tasting room for a wine tasting.
4. Goodsell Ridge Fossil Preserve
Location: Isle La Motte, VT
This 85-acre sanctuary in Isle La Motte provides year-round, free access to a remarkable collection of 480 million-year-old fossils from the Chazy Fossil Reef. You can take a self-guided expedition on the trails to marvel at these ancient relics while exploring the extended trails that wind through the vast property.
5. Ironwood Nature Trail, Grand Isle, VT
Location: Grand Isle, VT
This 0.8-mile trail near Grand Isle State Park features numerous old ironwood trees, an observation tower, wetland-forest plants, and an exposed bedrock dome with deep fissures.
6. Tracy Woods Community Trail
Location: South Hero, VT
Nestled in the charming town of South Hero, the Tracy Woods Community Trail was preserved in 2018 through the Tracy Woods Conservation Project. This family-friendly, one-mile loop trail is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Champlain Islands.
7. The Roy Marsh Trail
Location: South Hero, VT
This easy trail runs along the old Island Line Railroad Bed and is about 2 miles one way or 4 miles out and back. The trail is open for walking, running, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding. Feel free to bring your dog too! Be aware that hunting is allowed on this property, so use caution during waterfowl season.
8. Pelot’s Point Natural Area
Location: North Hero, VT
This 2.6-mile trail is lovely for walking, running, or snowshoeing. Located in North Hero, you will be fully immersed in nature with the opportunity to see lots of wildlife and a few excellent viewpoints of Lake Champlain. The trail winds through pastures and woods, and a portion is on the old railroad tracks.
9. Alburgh Recreational Rail Trail
Location: Alburgh, VT
This easy-to-moderate rail trail is 3 miles long and is open throughout all four seasons. The trail is excellent for walking, running, and biking. It starts in the Alburgh Village and heads east through the Mud Creek Wildlife Management Area.
10. Landon Community Trail
Location: South Hero, VT
The Landon Community Trail spans a manageable distance of ¾ mile catering to beginners and those seeking a moderately challenging hike. However, it's essential to remember that the Landon Community Trail temporarily closes each year between November 10th and December 10th. This brief closure aligns with the deer hunting season in the region, prioritizing safety for all trail users.
Whether you're heading out for a quick walk or exploring a new trail, the Champlain Islands offer plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. We hope this list inspires you to find a new trail and explore the area.
Before you go, remember that it’s hunting season in Vermont. Wear hunter orange, stick to designated trails, and stay aware of your surroundings.
If you have questions about the area or are looking for local recommendations, CBIR is always happy to be a resource.
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