On the flats: Rail trails, bike paths offer more casual outdoor experience

Biking a harrowing run of singletrack can be exhilarating, but some people just prefer a casual walk, a flat run or a place to push the baby jogger.

Good news. Vermont has rejuvenated rail trails and rec paths throughout the state perfect for the more casual outdoors person. Rail trails have crushed stone gravel surfaces while the rec paths are paved. Check websites for interactive maps, access points and amenities to keep you refreshed along the way. This summer, make it a goal to do them all!

Lamoille Valley Rail Trail

93 miles (33 currently open)

The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail extends across some of Northern Vermont’s most beautiful landscapes. The trail spans the width of the state, from the Connecticut River Valley to within two miles of Lake Champlain. Thirty-three miles are open, and in 2020 the Vermont Legislature authorized funding to complete the trail by 2023.

The section from Morrisville to Jeffersonville runs parallel to the Lamoille River and has mountain and farmland views. All 93 miles will be completed by November.

MORE INFO: lvrt.org.

Stowe Rec Path

5.3 miles

The Stowe Recreation Path is an award-winning, internationally recognized greenway stretching from Stowe Village to Topnotch Resort on the Mountain Road, with numerous access points along the way.

The path crosses the West Branch of Little River several times on long, arching bridges designed specifically for the path. Views of Mount Mansfield are common, especially from the northern end. Access to restaurants, lodges, and local businesses make the bike path one of the most popular recreation assets in Stowe.

In the spring 2017, bike maintenance stations were installed at Lintilhac Park and Chase Park. They have all the tools necessary to perform basic maintenance, from changing a flat to adjusting brakes and derailleurs.

MORE INFO: stowerec.org.

Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail

26.3 miles

This crushed-stone rail trail is one of the longer and more scenic in the state, passing through the heartland of dairy farms and cornfields of northwestern Vermont, from St. Albans to the Canadian border.

It follows the railbed of Central Vermont Railroad’s Richford Branch, starting on the north side of Saint Albans and heading northeast to the terminus in Richford.

Shortly after departing St. Albans, the trail passes through villages, cornfields, dairy farms, bridges and a lot of red barns.

MORE INFO: mvrailtrail.org.

Island Line Trail

14 miles

If you’re keen on variety, this trail has a lot to offer, including one novel segment, the Colchester Causeway. It’s one of the more unusual “trails” in Vermont, extending three miles into Lake Champlain, where the scenery is spectacularly aquatic.

It’s an easy trail that passes by beaches, parks and backyards, and offers great views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.

Starting on the waterfront in Burlington, the trail heads north, skirting Lake Champlain, eventually reaching the aforementioned causeway.

At the end of the causeway you can take Local Motion’s Island Line Bike Ferry (seasonal) to cross “The Cut,” a 200-foot gap in the causeway, with South Hero on its far side.

MORE INFO: localmotion.org

Route 127 Path

3.2 miles (one way)

This recreational path is situated north of downtown Burlington and South of Colchester and passes by wetlands, natural areas and the Winooski River.

It connects Burlington’s Old North End to the New North End, and links suburbs and parks, and passes by the Ethan Allen Homestead, which features a museum and year-round events.

While primarily for recreation, the path offers opportunities to spot wildlife on the Intervale, including a wide variety of birds.

A portion of the Route 127 Path is part of the Burlington Wildway Trail.

The trail heads south into Ethan Allen Park from the path and through the Ethan Allen Homestead to the east on its way to Salmon Hole Park.

It’s definitely worth exploring.

MORE INFO: enjoyburlington.com

SoBu Recreation Path

26 miles

A collaboration between the residents in South Burlington and the town resulted in this 26-mile network of paved, off-street trails that skirt by neighborhoods, view points and Lake Champlain.

Overlook Park on Deerfield Road has stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks in New York.

It’s a great place to watch the sunset.

Another segment winds through Farrell Park, a heavily forested oasis of greenery, while another section takes you through Red Rocks Park along the water, with great views of Lake Champlain and a popular swimming hole.

MORE INFO: bit.ly/3xQdK4y