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.

Fall is in full swing, and we’re loving every minute of it. The changing leaves, crisp air, and cozy sweater weather have made for some beautiful days around the Islands. October is also bringing plenty of ways to get out and enjoy the season, from harvest festivals and Oktoberfest to haunted trails and Halloween fun. Here are a few local events to add to your October calendar.

CIFM Harvest Fest | Saturday, October 1

The Champlain Islands Farmers’ Market is celebrating the season with its annual Harvest Fest at Allenholm Farm in South Hero from 10 AM–3 PM. More than 52 local vendors will be there with fresh produce, baked goods, maple, honey, wine, and artisan crafts, and more. Enjoy prepared foods, live music from Bramblewood, apple picking, family activities, and a free needle-felting workshop. Learn more about Harvest Fest here.

Emmons Island Haunted Trail | Saturday, October 10

Looking for a little Halloween excitement? Head to the Emmons Island Haunted Trail at 1 Island Meadows Lane in Grand Isle from 4:30–10 PM. Tickets are $20 or 12 non-perishable food items, with all proceeds and donated food going directly to the Champlain Islands Food Shelf. Expect plenty of scares, surprises, and spooky fun. Visit their Facebook page for more info and updates. 

Harvest Festival at Snow Farm Vineyard | Sunday, October 11

Celebrate the 2026 grape harvest at Snow Farm Vineyard & Distillery from 12–4 PM. The afternoon will feature wine, spirits, live music, more than a dozen local artisans, delicious food, specialty fall cocktails, campfires, and free wagon rides. If you’re up for a little adventure, take the short hike to Fox Hill Scenic Overlook for beautiful views of the fall foliage. Learn more about the Harvest Festival.

Two Heroes Oktoberfest | Saturday, October 24

Oktoberfest is coming to South Hero! Two Heroes Brewery is hosting its first-ever Oktoberfest with special menu items, friendly competitions, and live music from German band Inseldudler. You can even pre-order a custom Two Heroes stein to take home. Get the details here.

Trunk or Treat In the Islands | October 24 & 31

Halloween is almost here! Several communities around the Islands will be hosting family-friendly Trunk or Treat events, with costumes, decorated cars, and plenty of treats.

• Grand Isle: Saturday, October 24 at The Grand Isle Fish Hatchery. Learn more. 

• South Hero: Saturday, October 31 at Folsom Elementary School. Learn more. 

• Alburgh: Saturday, October 31 hosted by the Alburgh Fire Department. Learn more.

Halloween Weekend at The North Hero House | October 30 & 31

The North Hero House is getting into the Halloween spirit with a full weekend of fun. Friday night features a family-friendly costume contest and dancing, while Saturday brings a Murder Mystery interactive dinner experience. Add in gourmet food, cocktails, costumes, and special weekend room rates, and you have a festive way to celebrate Halloween in the Islands. Check out their facebook page for updates or visit their website for reservations and event details. 

Enjoy Fall in the Islands

Whether you're looking for a family-friendly afternoon, a little Halloween excitement, or simply a reason to get outside and enjoy the foliage, there’s plenty happening around the Champlain Islands this October. Grab a sweater, invite a friend, and make the most of the season!

Make the most of Summer 2023 by exploring all that the Lake Champlain Islands of Vermont have to offer. We've created a guide for the top must-try activities and events happening in each Champlain Island town to add to your summer bucket list. 

1. SUP & Lunch On The Lake | North Hero, VT.

North Hero Marina is offering stand-up paddle board rentals this summer. Enjoy a scenic paddle around Pelots and Carry Bay, and then enjoy lunch or dinner at Drifters, located right at the marina with views of the lake and marina. Learn more here. 

2. Biking & Music In The Park | Isle La Motte, VT.

On July 14th, The Nobby Reed Project will perform at the Isle La Motte Recreational Park. The show is free, and meals are available for purchase. Make a day of this event! Spend the day biking or exploring the scenic town and landmarks like St Anne Shrine, the town beach, The Quarry, Goodsell Ridge, and Isle La Motte Vineyard. Learn more about Music In The Park. 

3. Brew Hop & Golf | South Hero & Alburgh, VT.

Visit the Champlain Islands' local breweries, Two Heroes and Kraemer & Kin. Start your day in South Hero at the Two Heroes tasting room at 1 Ferry Road, then take a scenic drive up to the Alburgh Golf Links, where you can play a round of golf and then enjoy a meal and cold beer at Kraemer & Kin. Visit Kraemer & Kin and Two Heroes for more information.

4. MAGIC! With Tom Joyce | South Hero, VT.

Kids Event! On Thursday, July 13th, Tom Joyce will return to perform one of his amazing magic shows! New books and new tricks, all in one exciting event. Ages 4 and up. Learn more here.

5. Staycation at Grand Isle State Park | Grand Isle, VT. 

Grand Isle State Park is Vermont's most visited state park; it has great camping and even nature trails. The extensive shoreline is set up nicely for both fishing and swimming. Make sure to reserve your campsite before you plan your getaway.

6. Beach Day At The Alburgh Dunes | Alburgh, VT.

Soak up summer at one of the longest beaches on Lake Champlain. The Alburgh Dunes is a natural sand beach in south Alburgh that offers day use access to one of the Islands most beautiful beaches. Pack the coolers and sunscreen and enjoy this wonderful Vermont State Park. Visit their website to learn more.

Summer in Vermont is the perfect time to explore the wonders of the Lake Champlain Islands region. Whether attending lively festivals, indulging in local cuisine, or embarking on outdoor adventures, this bucket list will fill your summer with unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and prepare to create cherished memories by the lake! 

Learn more about Life in the Lake Champlain Islands.