Is there a train to Burlington?

Yes, the Amtrak Ethan Allen Express now serves Burlington, but it requires a circuitous route from NYC.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 5 hours under normal traffic conditions.

Do I need a passport?

No, you are traveling within the United States.

What is the best way to cross the lake?

The ferry is scenic, but the bridge at Crown Point is faster if you are further south.

Yes, the New York State Thruway (I-90) is a toll road.

Geneva

Burlington

Driving

Geneva to Burlington

Updated: 28 May 2026

The trip from Geneva to Burlington covers roughly 300 miles across Upstate New York and into Vermont. The most practical route involves taking I-90 East toward Albany, then heading North on I-87 toward the Adirondacks, and finally crossing Lake Champlain via the ferry or bridge. This journey takes approximately 5 hours of pure driving time. You will pass through the scenic Mohawk Valley and the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. It is a popular route for those seeking outdoor recreation in the Green Mountains.

Total Distance: 480 km driving distance, 350 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-90 and I-87 is the fastest route, taking approximately 5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the only practical and cost-effective way to make this trip.

Compare Geneva to Burlington Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

5 hours

Avg Price

$50-$70 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

I-90 E to I-87 N, then NY-9N or I-89 into Vermont.

Check the Lake Champlain ferry schedule if you choose to cross via the Essex-Charlotte ferry.

Travel Tips

Ferry Crossing
The Lake Champlain ferry is a scenic shortcut; check the Lake Champlain Transportation Company website for current rates.
Weather
Vermont weather changes rapidly; always carry a light jacket even in summer.
Local Transit
Burlington has a robust bus system called Green Mountain Transit if you prefer not to drive in the city.
Dining
Try the local maple creemees, a Vermont staple, available at many roadside stands.
Connectivity
Cell service can be spotty in the Adirondack region; download offline maps before departing.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be cautious of deer on the roads, especially during dawn and dusk in rural New York and Vermont.
Winter Driving
If traveling in winter, ensure your vehicle has snow tires as mountain passes can become icy.
Road Conditions
Check 511NY and 511VT for real-time road closures or construction updates.
Emergency
Keep a physical map in your car as GPS signals may fail in remote mountainous areas.