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.

As autumn paints northwest Vermont in vibrant hues, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than on the trails. From gentle lakeside walks to challenging mountain summits, the Burlington area offers hikes for every skill level. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these trails showcase Vermont’s natural beauty, crisp fall air, and the active lifestyle that defines the region.

1. Mount Philo State Park – Charlotte, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~ 30 minutes (18 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A 1.9-mile round-trip hike with panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. This short but rewarding trail is great for families and beginner hikers looking for a quick nature escape.

2. Red Rocks Park – South Burlington, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~ 10 minutes (3 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A short, scenic walk along Lake Champlain, offering a mix of forested trails and dramatic cliffs with water views. Perfect for a peaceful stroll that is nearby to the city of Burlington.

3. Camel’s Hump – Huntington, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~ 45 minutes (24 miles)
Difficulty: Challenging
Description: One of Vermont’s highest peaks, with various trail options. The Burrows and Monroe Trails are popular 6 to 7 mile round-trip hikes that offer stunning 360-degree views. Ideal for experienced hikers seeking a full day of adventure.

4. Mt. Mansfield via Sunset Ridge Trail – Underhill, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (25 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Description: A 6.5-mile round-trip hike to Vermont's highest peak. Sunset Ridge offers open ridgeline views and a challenging yet rewarding ascent. Perfect for those looking to experience breathtaking alpine vistas.

5. Niquette Bay State Park – Colchester, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~25 minutes (12 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A network of trails through peaceful woods leading to Lake Champlain's shores. The longest trail is around 3.5 miles, making it great for a relaxing, scenic hike with beautiful water views.

6. Stowe Pinnacle Trail – Stowe, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (36 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A 3.7-mile round-trip trail offering panoramic views of the valley and Mt. Mansfield. The fall foliage is especially beautiful, making this a popular hike during the season.

7. Sterling Pond Trail – Smugglers’ Notch, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (38 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A 2.5-mile round-trip hike to a serene mountain pond. The trail is steep at first but levels off, offering a rewarding view at the top. Great for those looking for a moderate hike with a peaceful water feature.

8. Pelot’s Point Natural Area – North Hero, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (40 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A 2.6-mile loop through pastures, woods, and along old railroad tracks. With opportunities to see wildlife and views of Lake Champlain, this is a peaceful, nature-immersed hike perfect for families and bird watchers.

9. Eagle Mountain – Milton, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~35 minutes (20 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A 2.1-mile round-trip hike with meadows, woods, and scenic views of Lake Champlain from the summit. This moderate trail is perfect for a quick, peaceful escape into nature with rewarding lake views.

10. Libby’s Look Trail – Bolton, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~35 minutes (25 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A 1.5-mile round-trip hike with stunning overlooks of Camel’s Hump and Bolton Valley. Though short, it’s a hidden gem for those looking for a quieter trail with fantastic fall foliage views.

11. Snake Mountain – Addison, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (35 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A 4-mile round-trip hike with expansive views of the Champlain Valley and Adirondack Mountains. This is an easy-to-moderate trail, making it a great option for a leisurely fall outing.

Fall in Vermont is a must-see, and these trails are the perfect way to experience it. From serene lakeside strolls to stunning mountain vistas, each hike offers a unique glimpse of the state’s natural beauty. Lace up your boots, soak in the foliage, and embrace the best of autumn in Northwest Vermont.