Nature's Retreat: Derway Island Nature Trail
Adventure Destination

Nature's Retreat: Derway Island Nature Trail

Explore the serene Derway Island Nature Trail in Burlington, VT. This easy route is perfect for bird watching and photography, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. A great choice for families and nature lovers seeking solitude and wildlife encounters.

Hiking3.8/10Easy
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Easy

About This Adventure Destination

Derway Island Nature Trail is a peaceful green escape located along the Winooski River in Burlington, Vermont. This quiet trail invites visitors to enjoy the natural setting close to the city while offering rewarding river views and a variety of wildlife sightings. The trail’s gentle path winds through forests and open wetland areas, highlighting the rich ecosystems that thrive here. It serves as an important refuge for local birds, particularly Canada Geese, and visitors may also see turtles sunning themselves on logs or fish glinting beneath the water’s surface.

This area is distinct for its role in protecting Vermont’s waterways and wetlands, making it a valued spot for conservation efforts. Derway Island Nature Trail is a great place for those interested in birdwatching or simply experiencing a calm, natural environment near downtown Burlington. The trail offers a refreshing contrast to urban life, with the sound of flowing water and calls of native wildlife creating a soothing atmosphere.

Historically, the river and its surroundings have been significant to indigenous peoples, who used the waterway for travel and resources. Today, the trail reflects the close relationship between the community and its natural environment. While the first stretch of the trail is well-maintained and ideal for families or casual visitors, parts further along become denser and less managed, adding to its rugged charm. Visitors are advised to prepare for insects like mosquitoes, especially in warmer months, making it essential to bring repellents.

With its blend of accessible quiet paths and rich wildlife, Derway Island Nature Trail stands out as a promising destination for anyone interested in connecting with Vermont’s riverside nature close to Burlington’s city center.

Editorial Assessment

A lovely natural area for a relaxed adventure, offering local charm and diverse wildlife, but not among the world's most unique natural landmarks.

Nature's Retreat: Derway Island Nature Trail

Adventure Guide to Nature's Retreat: Derway Island Nature Trail

1

Experience Nature's Retreat: Derway Island Nature Trail

  • Special Features: Explore the serene Derway Island Nature Trail in Burlington, VT. This easy route is perfect for bird watching and photography, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. A great choice for families and nature lovers seeking solitude and wildlife encounters.
  • Visitor Tips: Best time to visit is during Spring and Fall. Bring adequate water, appropriate outdoor gear, and camera.
  • Directions: 3074 North Ave, Burlington, VT 05408, USA
2

Exploring Near Burlington, Vermont

  • Local Insights: Offers direct access to top trails, protected natural reserves, and picturesque viewpoints across Burlington, Vermont.
  • Visitor Tips: Check local regulations, trail conditions, and weather before heading out.
3

Photography and Wildlife

  • Special Highlights: Watch for native wildlife including Canada Goose, Bald Eagles, Turtles.
  • Visitor Tips: Arrive in early morning or late afternoon for the softest lighting and quieter trails.

Reviews

J
Jonathan Wirges3 months ago

A pleasant short walk alongside the river. Easy flat trail. Amazing birding opportunities

S
Sean Werle10 months ago

Snakes and frogs and turtles oh my!

N
Nancy Younga year ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

M
Mike Adamson2 years ago

Grew up in the area no it like the back of my hand.

G
Greu Crew2 years ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

Maple Smoke and Trolley Bells: Burlington’s Sugarhouse Morning4.54 mi
Burlington, Vermont

Maple Smoke and Trolley Bells: Burlington’s Sugarhouse Morning

A narrated Burlington trolley tour followed by a family sugarhouse visit delivers city scenes, a hands‑on look at maple sugaring, and a warm pancake breakfast—this guide explains what to expect.

4.54 miView Trips & Details →
A Two-Hour Walk Through Adirondack Grandeur at Great Camp Sagamore47.4 mi
Raquette Lake, New York

A Two-Hour Walk Through Adirondack Grandeur at Great Camp Sagamore

A family-friendly, guided walking tour of the 27-building Great Camp Sagamore on Raquette Lake that traces its Adirondack architecture, Vanderbilt-era history, and lakeside setting.

47.4 miView Trips & Details →
Gingerbread Architecture: A Cook Academy Family Workshop in Essex8.22 mi
Essex, Massachusetts

Gingerbread Architecture: A Cook Academy Family Workshop in Essex

A hands-on gingerbread house decorating workshop in Essex where each kit, candy and a personal chef’s guidance let families build and take home a festive keepsake.

8.22 miView Trips & Details →
On the Water for Burlington’s Sky: A Fireworks Cruise over Lake Champlain4.56 mi
Burlington, Vermont

On the Water for Burlington’s Sky: A Fireworks Cruise over Lake Champlain

A three-hour, once-a-year evening cruise aboard Whistling Man vessels that places you on the lake for unrivaled views of Burlington Harbor’s fireworks.

4.56 miView Trips & Details →
Sunset on Buttercup: A Private BYO Picnic Cruise Across Lake Champlain4.56 mi
Burlington, Vermont

Sunset on Buttercup: A Private BYO Picnic Cruise Across Lake Champlain

A two-hour, BYO food-and-drink cruise aboard Buttercup—an accessible, canopied picnic boat—for up to six guests, useful for planning a relaxed waterfront evening with mountain and maritime sights.

4.56 miView Trips & Details →
Axes at Your Door: Two Hours of Mobile Throwing with Burlyaxe in Burlington4.62 mi
Burlington, Vermont

Axes at Your Door: Two Hours of Mobile Throwing with Burlyaxe in Burlington

A two-hour, coach-led axe-throwing event delivered to a dry, flat site near Burlington—useful for planners who need on-site team thrills and clear logistics.

4.62 miView Trips & Details →