Colchester Causeway
A scenic rail trail extending into Lake Champlain, offering breathtaking 360° water views and a unique biking/walking experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Colchester Causeway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic rail trail extending into Lake Champlain, offering breathtaking 360° water views and a unique biking/walking experience.
"The Causeway at Malletts Bay is honestly something special. Every time I go there, I feel like I’m stepping into a painting."
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Consider biking from Burlington if parking is full. :car:
🚲 Rent Bikes in Town
Many recommend renting bikes in Burlington for the full causeway experience. :bike:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Champlain Views
The entire causeway
Experience breathtaking 360° views of Lake Champlain, with water on both sides of the path.
+1
Island Line Trail
Connects to Burlington
This 13.4-mile rail trail offers a scenic journey, perfect for biking or walking.
+1
Sunset Spectacle
Along the causeway
Witness a magical sunset reflecting on the water, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Parking
Embrace the Bike Ferry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Consider biking from Burlington if parking is full. :car:
🚲 Rent Bikes in Town
Many recommend renting bikes in Burlington for the full causeway experience.
💧 Check Bike Ferry Hours
The bike ferry is a unique feature, but confirm its operating schedule before you go. :ferry:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Path
A great spot for dog walks, especially when other trails might be sensitive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Consider biking from Burlington if parking is full. :car:
🚲 Rent Bikes in Town
Many recommend renting bikes in Burlington for the full causeway experience.
💧 Check Bike Ferry Hours
The bike ferry is a unique feature, but confirm its operating schedule before you go. :ferry:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Path
A great spot for dog walks, especially when other trails might be sensitive.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning lake and mountain vistas, particularly at sunset. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Colchester Causeway's breathtaking Lake Champlain views and its unique, water-surrounded path, calling it a 'hall of fame trail.' It's praised for its beauty, especially at sunset, and its suitability for biking and walking. Some note the limited parking and the need to check bike ferry hours.
"Awesome Rail Trail has a totally different feel being surrounded by water on a slice of land going thru Lake Champlain and the mountains in the distance. Also rode the bike ferry to connect to Grand Island. Just a great experience on another hall of fame trail."
Jim K
"One of my favorite spots around Burlington.
The Causeway at Malletts Bay is honestly something special. Every time I go there, I feel like I’m stepping into a painting. The views are breathtaking—especially around sunset when the sky reflects off the water and everything just feels calm and peaceful. Whether you’re biking, walking, or just out to clear your head, this place never disappoints.
If you’re planning to drive there, just a heads-up—the parking area isn’t huge. You might get space for around 10 to 12 vehicles, maybe a few more if it’s not busy, but definitely not a lot. So if you’re coming in a group or on a weekend, it’s better to get there a little early. That said, if you’re biking along the trail or doing the full causeway ride, it’s perfect. The whole path is well-maintained and the views along the water are unreal.
I’ve been here in different seasons, and each one has its own charm. The breeze off the lake, the sound of the waves, and that long stretch of trail surrounded by water on both sides—there’s just nothing like it. If you’re in Vermont and haven’t been, you’re really missing out."
Bikash Porthel
"Favorite places to go. My fiancé propsed to me there on a rock ledge. We had beautiful clear sky's. A lot of people come to walk or bike the road. There is a parking lot you can park in Colchester with bathrooms and a playground.
Fun for all"
Lori Papineau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Colchester Causeway is accessible via the Island Line Trail. You can bike or walk to it from Burlington, or drive to the parking area near Airport Park in Colchester.
Yes, there is a parking area, but it's quite small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Absolutely! Renting bikes in Burlington and riding the Island Line Trail to the causeway is a popular and scenic option.
The most common access points are from Burlington via the Island Line Trail or from the parking lot at Airport Park in Colchester.
While you can drive to the parking area, the causeway itself is primarily for pedestrians and cyclists. Cars are not permitted on the trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to access the Colchester Causeway. It's a public trail.
Access to the causeway itself is free. If you rent bikes or use the bike ferry, there may be associated costs.
The causeway is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. The bike ferry has specific operating hours.
The Island Line Trail, including the Colchester Causeway, is free to use.
While the trail is accessible, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully enjoy the scenic views.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy biking, walking, running, fishing, and simply taking in the stunning Lake Champlain views. +1
Yes, it's renowned as a fantastic bike path, offering miles of scenic riding with water on both sides.
The bike ferry is a unique service that transports cyclists across a short gap in the causeway, connecting to the islands.
Yes, there are restrooms available, particularly near the parking area at Airport Park.
Yes, it's a great family-friendly spot for walks and bike rides, with a playground near the parking area.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the causeway stretching into the water, and sunset vistas are prime photo spots. +1
Late afternoon and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light and stunning reflections on the water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, and a telephoto lens can be useful for distant island shots.
The entire causeway offers incredible views, but look for spots where the path seems to disappear into the water for dramatic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing kid-friendly snacks and drinks, as amenities directly on the causeway are limited. The bike ferry can also be an exciting element for children, adding a unique adventure to the outing. Remember to check the ferry's schedule in advance. The overall experience is safe, scenic, and provides ample opportunities for memorable family moments surrounded by nature.
🚴♀️ Active Adventurers
Consider tackling the full length of the causeway and beyond, perhaps utilizing the bike ferry for an extended exploration. The consistent breeze off Lake Champlain can be invigorating, but also something to be mindful of on longer rides. It's a perfect route for training or simply enjoying a vigorous ride with unparalleled views.
+1📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Sunset is a magical time here, with the sky ablaze and its colors reflecting on the calm water, creating a serene and breathtaking scene. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities, from the vibrant greens of summer to the fiery hues of autumn foliage.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Island Line Trail Experience
+1One of the most talked-about features of the Island Line Trail is the bike ferry that operates across a short gap in the causeway. This ferry service is a charming and convenient way to continue your journey onto the islands. However, it's crucial to check its operating hours, as missing the ferry might require a detour or a different plan for your route. Even without the ferry, the causeway itself offers miles of stunning scenery and a memorable outdoor experience.
Travelers often describe the experience as stepping into a painting, with breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains. The feeling of being surrounded by water on both sides of the path is a recurring theme in reviews, contributing to the causeway's unique charm. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll, an invigorating bike ride, or simply a place to connect with nature, the Island Line Trail and Colchester Causeway deliver.
Navigating Parking and Access
For those who encounter a full parking lot or prefer an alternative, biking from Burlington is a popular and scenic option. Many visitors rent bikes in town and enjoy the ride along the Island Line Trail to reach the causeway. This approach not only bypasses parking concerns but also allows for a more immersive experience of the local landscape.
+1It's also worth noting that while cars can access the vicinity, the causeway itself is a dedicated pedestrian and cyclist path. This ensures a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone enjoying the trail. Understanding these access points and potential parking limitations will help you plan a more relaxed and enjoyable visit to this beautiful Vermont gem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit