The Local Motion Bike Ferry
The 2023 Bike Ferry Season
BECOME A FRIEND OF THE FERRY!
It goes without saying that we are all united in our love of the Bike Ferry and in sharing it with the rest of the world. As a Friend of the Ferry you are part of anchoring our novel “pay-what-you-can'' ferry service. For your $50 donation you will receive your neon green "bike band" and membership sticker. You might get a wink and a nod from our hardworking crew when they spot your proudly displayed 2023 bike band as it identifies you as a valued Bike Ferry supporter, supporting something truly exceptional, where there are no exceptions and Everyone Rides!
A true Vermont destination, our Bike Ferry is an Island Line Trail link to walkers and cyclists between the greater Burlington area and the Champlain Islands. It operates by donation and runs continuosly. Our docks are located 2.5 miles off-shore on the spectacular Colchester Causeway. The trip across the “Cut” is breathtaking with distant views of the Green Mountains to the east and the Adirondacks across the Lake to the west. It’s not uncommon for us to welcome passengers from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries in a single season! Please consider a trip to see us this season, you will not be disappointed.
Donate to Friends of the Ferry!
2023 Bike Ferry Schedule
Spring - weekends only schedule
- Friday 5/26, Saturday 5/27, Sunday 5/28, Memorial Day Monday 5/29
- Friday 6/2, Saturday 6/3, Sunday 6/4
- Friday 6/9, Saturday 6/10, Sunday 6/11
Hours - the Ferry runs Friday 10am to 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 6pm.
Summer - daily schedule
- Daily Service Begins Friday 6/16 through Labor Day Monday 9/4 (end of daily service).
Hours - the Ferry runs Monday through Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 6pm.
Fall - weekends only schedule
- During the fall we operate on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays beginning on 9/8 and ending on 10/8.
- Our last day of fall service is Indigenous Peoples Day Monday 10/9.
Hours - the Ferry runs on Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 6pm.
Your route to the Bike Ferry
Location: Island Line Trail, South Hero, VT 05486
The Island Line Trail ranks as one of the most scenic vistas in the world and has some of the easiest riding and walking terrains in all of Vermont. Superb biking and walking, gorgeous views, trails, farms, and good food await you along the Island Line Trail. The Trail starts south of downtown Burlington in Oakledge Park and parallels the lakeshore past nature preserves and across the Colchester Causeway via the Bike Ferry. Our specially equipped bike ferry, the Bill and Carole Hauke II, will carry you comfortably across the 200 foot "Cut," whether you are heading south from the Islands or north from the Burlington/ Colchester area.
Looking for more cycling routes in the Champlain Area?
The Lake Champlain Bikeways maps cover dozens of possible cycling loops in Grand Isle County, Chittenden County, Franklin County, Addison/Rutland/Windsor Counties, Essex County (NY), and Clinton County (NY). They feature some 1,636 total network miles for bicyclists.
Check out the Bikeways Map!
Volunteer at the Bike Ferry!
Local Motion's Bike Ferry, located 10 miles from Burlington on the beautiful Colchester Causeway, needs volunteer Dockside Ambassadors! Greet passengers, sell tickets, and provide tourist info to the best of your knowledge. Receive training on-site when you arrive for your shift.
Bike Ferry History
The Bike Ferry and the Island Line Trail are rich in Vermont history. Learn more about how this historic rail trail turned into a beloved bike path ridden by visitors and locals alike!
Got Questions?
Find the answers to your most pressing questions about the Local Motion Bike Ferry on our Ferry FAQ page. Still don't have the answer you are looking for? Please reach out to us at [email protected]
Special Groups
Interested in using our bikes or bike ferry for a special event, corporate outing, wedding, etc.? Learn more here!
