Local Motion Island Line Bike Ferry Season Opening

The Local Motion Island Line Bike Ferry Season Opening brings back one of Vermont’s standout lake rides. Starting May 23, 2026, for Memorial Day weekend, you can pedal the Island Line Rail Trail out onto the Lake Champlain causeway, with open water on both sides and a straight-ahead sense of adventure. The route ends at “The Cut,” a 200 foot gap in the limestone causeway, where the seasonal bike ferry reconnects the trail between Colchester and South Hero.

You ride a narrow gravel path that feels like it belongs to the lake as much as the land. The ferry crossing takes less than ten minutes, but it can be the longest pause of your day during peak holiday hours, so plan for a bit of waiting. Service runs Friday through Sunday until late June, then shifts to a daily schedule for peak summer, making it easy to build the ride into a full island loop or a relaxed out-and-back.

For a smoother day, aim to reach the Colchester or South Hero trailheads by 9:30 AM for better parking odds and shorter lines. Bring a $5 donation per person to support Local Motion’s nonprofit operations, plus water, high SPF sunscreen, and a windbreaker since lake breezes can cool things down quickly. Check Local Motion updates before you go because high winds or thunderstorms can pause service, and carry a basic repair kit since the causeway is remote. The ferry is bike and pedestrian friendly, including trailers and tag-alongs, and dogs are generally welcome if they are comfortable on the boat and kept on a short leash.

Stay close to the trail in Colchester near Malletts Bay or choose downtown Burlington for more dining and post-ride options. If you want quieter mornings and quick access to island roads, look for seasonal rentals in South Hero or Grand Isle, with farm stands and creemee stops waiting on the far side. For regional lodging ideas to base your weekend, browse Lake.com and plan your ride around the ferry schedule and weather.