Local Motion Bike Ferry
A unique 5-minute ferry ride connecting the scenic Island Line Trail across Lake Champlain, offering breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Local Motion Bike Ferry
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique 5-minute ferry ride connecting the scenic Island Line Trail across Lake Champlain, offering breathtaking views.
"A very quick ride between a gap left in the trail. A unique addition to a unique ride."
Donate to Keep it Running
The ferry is free, but donations are crucial for its operation. Consider contributing! :heart:
E-Bikes Available
Not a strong cyclist? Rent an e-bike from Local Motion to make the 10-mile ride easier. :electric_plug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bike Ferry Crossing
Lake Champlain Causeway
A unique, short boat ride connecting the Island Line Trail across a gap in the causeway.
Island Line Trail
Burlington to South Hero
A scenic 14-mile paved trail offering stunning Lake Champlain views and island access.
Lake Champlain Islands
South Hero, Grand Isle
Explore charming islands accessible via the trail and ferry, perfect for a day trip.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Bike & Ferry Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Donate to Keep it Running
The ferry is free, but donations are crucial for its operation. Consider contributing! :heart:
E-Bikes Available
Not a strong cyclist? Rent an e-bike from Local Motion to make the 10-mile ride easier. :electric_plug:
Check Ferry Schedule
The ferry is seasonal and has specific operating hours. Always check before you go! :calendar:
Pack Water & Snacks
While the ride is short, the trail can be long. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Donate to Keep it Running
The ferry is free, but donations are crucial for its operation. Consider contributing! :heart:
E-Bikes Available
Not a strong cyclist? Rent an e-bike from Local Motion to make the 10-mile ride easier. :electric_plug:
Check Ferry Schedule
The ferry is seasonal and has specific operating hours. Always check before you go! :calendar:
Pack Water & Snacks
While the ride is short, the trail can be long. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. :water_wave:
Enjoy the Views!
The trail and ferry offer breathtaking Lake Champlain scenery. Take your time and soak it in. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique and scenic experience of the Local Motion Bike Ferry and the Island Line Trail. The short, free ferry ride is a highlight, offering beautiful lake views and a novel way to connect the trail. Many appreciate the service and encourage donations to keep it running, though some note the trail to the ferry can be long for casual riders.
"A very quick ride between a gap left in the trail. A unique addition to a unique ride."
Natalie Koffarnus
"What a great service! No wait at all on a sunny late June Wednesday. The two folks running the ferry on 6/25 were so nice, helping me with my bike and engaging us in conversation. It's a super short ride (maybe 5 minutes?) But it was a lovely way to spend a little non-pedaling time on the Island Causeway rail trail. While it is free, please donate to keep it running."
Siobahn Pellegrino
"Thank you for the boat ride. Felt very safe. You all do a great job.
The Honor Roll"
Ellen Pierson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The ferry is located on the Island Line Trail. If you're starting from Burlington, it's about a 10-mile ride south on the trail to reach the ferry crossing. You can rent bikes, including e-bikes, from Local Motion in Burlington to make the journey easier.
Yes, the Island Line Trail is generally considered beginner-friendly. It's mostly paved and relatively flat, with some gentle inclines. The ferry itself is a very short, non-pedaling break.
Absolutely! The ferry is designed to transport bicycles and pedestrians across the gap in the causeway.
Parking is available at various points along the Island Line Trail, including near Local Motion in Burlington. Some users suggest planning your route and parking in advance.
While direct public transport to the ferry dock is limited, you can use local buses to get to the general vicinity of the Island Line Trail in Burlington.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ferry ride itself is free! However, it relies on donations to operate. Visitors are strongly encouraged to donate to support this unique service.
The ferry operates seasonally, typically from late May through Columbus Day. Hours can vary, so it's essential to check the official Local Motion website or their social media for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
No, advance booking is not required for the bike ferry. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
If the ferry is closed due to weather or maintenance, you won't be able to cross the gap. Some visitors have had to turn back or find alternative routes. Always check conditions beforehand.
There are no specific age restrictions mentioned for the ferry, but children should be accompanied by an adult.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The ferry crossing is very short, typically only about 5 minutes. It's a brief but memorable part of the Island Line Trail experience.
On the other side, you can continue exploring the Island Line Trail into the Champlain Islands, such as South Hero and Grand Isle. These areas offer beautiful scenery and a more rural biking experience.
Local Motion in Burlington offers bike rentals, including e-bikes, which is convenient for reaching the ferry. There aren't rental facilities directly at the ferry dock itself.
The Island Line Trail is largely exposed with limited shade, especially on the causeway. It's advisable to wear sunscreen and a hat, particularly during warmer months.
The Island Line Trail is a paved rail-trail, making it smooth for cycling. The ferry crossing itself is a water transit, not a terrain to navigate.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire causeway offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Champlain. The ferry itself, with bikes on board and the water surrounding it, makes for unique shots. Don't miss the island landscapes on the other side.
It's best to stop at designated pull-offs or the ferry itself to take photos. Riding and photographing simultaneously can be dangerous.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light over Lake Champlain. Midday can be bright but still offers clear views of the islands.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations for flying drones in Vermont state parks and along the trail before your visit.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant island shots. A waterproof bag is recommended for protecting your gear near the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are limited services directly on the trail. The destination on the other side of the ferry, the Champlain Islands, offers a chance to explore and perhaps enjoy a picnic. Remember to check the ferry's operating schedule, as it's seasonal and weather-dependent.
🚴♀️ Avid Cyclists
Consider combining the Island Line Trail with other local routes for a longer cycling tour. The trail's connection to other paths and its unique ferry crossing make it a memorable part of any Vermont cycling itinerary. Be prepared for potential wind exposure on the causeway.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian Explorers
Enjoy the tranquility of the lake and the fresh air as you stroll along the trail. It's a great option for those who prefer to explore on foot and want to experience the beauty of Lake Champlain without the need for a bicycle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Island Line Trail Experience
One of the most distinctive features of the trail is the Local Motion Bike Ferry. This short, 5-minute boat ride connects a gap in the causeway, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to continue their journey seamlessly to the Champlain Islands. The ferry is more than just a transit; it's an integral part of the adventure, offering a brief respite from pedaling and a chance to enjoy the lake from a different perspective.
Beyond the ferry, the trail leads to the charming Champlain Islands, including South Hero and Grand Isle. These islands provide a more rural and tranquil extension of the ride, with opportunities to explore local farms, quaint villages, and more shoreline. The entire experience is a testament to sustainable transportation and the beauty of Vermont's natural landscape.
Local Motion's Role and Impact
The Bike Ferry is a prime example of Local Motion's commitment to creating accessible and enjoyable active transportation routes. By operating this service, they facilitate a more complete and continuous Island Line Trail experience, encouraging more people to explore the region by bike. The ferry's reliance on donations highlights the community's support for their mission and the value placed on this unique amenity.
Volunteers play a crucial role in Local Motion's operations, including staffing the Bike Ferry. This community involvement not only helps keep services running but also fosters a sense of shared ownership and pride in Vermont's active transportation infrastructure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit