Derway Island Nature Trail wilderness guide
Nature Area · VT

Derway Island Nature Trail

Derway Island Nature Trail offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts, featuring a beautiful wetlands ecosystem perfect for bird watching and leisurely hikes.

Nature Area1291+ Trails

Designation

Nature Area

Total Wilderness Area

129

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Derway Island Nature Trail

Derway Island Nature Trail offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts, featuring a beautiful wetlands ecosystem perfect for bird watching and leisurely hikes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the scenic city of Burlington, Vermont, Derway Island Nature Trail is a peaceful natural area known for its wetlands and diverse wildlife. This trail provides an escape from the urban environment, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature. The ecological importance of Derway Island, with its wetlands, cannot be overstated as it serves as a crucial habitat for many bird species, amphibians, and other wildlife. Historically, this area has been used for conservation efforts aimed at maintaining the natural environment and ensuring the longevity of its unique ecosystem. For recreation, the trail is perfect for walking, birdwatching, and photography, offering picturesque views of the wetlands and Lake Champlain. It appeals to both locals and tourists looking for a quiet walk or a chance to observe nature closely.

Field Guide · Nature Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Derway Island Nature Trail

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Observation platforms for birdwatching✦ Rich diversity of wetland flora and fauna✦ Proximity to the scenic Lake Champlain✦ Access to quiet and tranquil surroundings
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Derway Island Nature Trail

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Derway Island Nature Trail
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Derway Island Nature Trail
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Derway Island Nature Trail
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Derway Island Nature Trail.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Derway Island Nature Trail

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Burlington, Vermont
⌖ 2.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is a vibrant town offering a seamless blend of city life and access to Vermont's outdoor adventure. Explore Lake Champlain, hike in the Green Mountains, or bike along the scenic trails.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Winooski, Vermont
⌖ 2.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Winooski, Vermont

Winooski, VT offers outdoor lovers a convenient riverfront town to kayak, fish, and bike with quick access to nearby hiking and winter sports. Its vibrant riverwalk and local culture make it a great basecamp for exploring northern Vermont’s outdoors.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
South Burlington, Vermont
⌖ 4.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Burlington, Vermont

South Burlington offers diverse outdoor activities from hiking and biking to winter sports on the shores of Lake Champlain. It's a perfect hub for nature enthusiasts looking for adventure and relaxation.

Essex Junction, Vermont
⌖ 6.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Essex Junction, Vermont

Essex Junction, Vermont is a charming outdoor town offering visitors easy river paddling, scenic trails for hiking and biking, winter cross-country skiing, and tranquil fishing spots, all within a welcoming community rich in local culture.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Shelburne, Vermont
⌖ 8.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shelburne, Vermont

Shelburne, Vermont offers peaceful hiking and biking trails, paddling on Lake Champlain, and winter sports in a scenic lakeside setting. It’s a friendly, accessible basecamp with natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water and trail activities; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Essex, Vermont
⌖ 8.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Essex, Vermont

Essex, Vermont offers easy access to hiking, paddling, and winter sports in a welcoming setting. With river trails and forest preserves, it’s a great spot for outdoor families and adventure seekers wanting a Vermont experience close to nature.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowshoeing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Derway Island Nature Trail

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Maple Smoke and Trolley Bells: Burlington’s Sugarhouse Morning
ADVEXPEDITION
Burlington, Vermont
TrolleyADV Bookable

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.

TrolleyPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip