Burlington VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Burlington, Vermont.
1. Ethan Allen Homestead
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE TRAILS
Ethan Allen Homestead features about four miles of easily accessible trails winding through meadows, forests, and along the Winooski River. The trail network is well-suited for beginners and families, offering mostly gentle terrain. Highlights include the elevated boardwalk sections and opportunities to spot wildlife near the riverbank.
2. Ethan Allen Park
CITY VIEWS AND WOODS
Ethan Allen Park offers a network of forested trails, including a path leading up to the park's signature Pinnacle, a tower with panoramic vistas over Burlington and Lake Champlain. The trails are mostly moderate in difficulty, featuring shaded groves and rocky outcrops. The park is a favorite for its easy access from downtown and rewarding city and lake views.
3. Intervale Center Trails
RIVERSIDE URBAN ESCAPE
The Intervale Center Trails provide a flat and easy hiking experience along the Winooski River through open farmland, woodlands, and community gardens. These trails are suitable for all skill levels and are especially popular for birdwatching and a peaceful urban escape. Hikers can explore the scenic agricultural landscape while remaining close to the heart of Burlington.
4. Winooski River Walk and Casavant Trails
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RIVER WALKS
The Winooski River Walk and Casavant Trails offer a gentle hiking route along both sides of the Winooski River, featuring boardwalks, scenic overlooks, and woodsy stretches. These trails are rated as easy and are ideal for leisurely walks with family or casual outings. Major highlights include river access points and tranquil viewing areas where hikers can observe flowing water and wildlife.
5. Shelburne Farms
FARM VIEWS AND LAKE
Shelburne Farms features over ten miles of gentle walking trails weaving through fields, forests, and along the scenic shoreline of Lake Champlain. The trails are mostly easy and suitable for all levels, with several routes offering spectacular views of the Adirondack Mountains. Visitors can enjoy peaceful meadows, historic farm buildings, and beautifully landscaped gardens along the way.
6. Eagle Mountain Natural Area
HILLTOP CHAMPLAIN VIEWS
Eagle Mountain Natural Area offers a moderately challenging hike through maple forests and across rocky ledges, rewarding hikers with sweeping views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding countryside. The trail network is moderate in difficulty, making it accessible to most hikers while still providing a satisfying workout. Unique highlights include rolling meadows, wildflowers, and the chance to spot raptors overhead.
7. Red Rocks Park
LAKESIDE FOREST TRAILS
Red Rocks Park features a web of easy to moderate trails winding through mature forests and leading to dramatic cliffs above Lake Champlain. The area is well known for its beautiful lake views, especially from the overlooks perched on the park's rocky bluffs. Hikers can explore shaded woodland paths, rocky shorelines, and enjoy seasonal wildflowers throughout the park.
8. Camel's Hump
ICONIC MOUNTAIN SUMMIT
Camel's Hump is a classic Vermont peak offering challenging hikes with steep ascents through dense forests to its signature bald summit. Rated as difficult, the hike rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain. It's one of the most recognizable and scenic alpine summits in the state, popular with experienced hikers.
9. Mount Philo State Park
QUICK SCENIC CLIMB
Mount Philo State Park is home to Vermont's oldest state park and offers a short but steep trail up to a summit with sweeping views over the Champlain Valley and the Adirondacks. The main trail is rated moderate due to its elevation gain, making it a favorite for both families and solo hikers seeking a quick climb. The summit picnic area provides an excellent spot to rest and enjoy the scenery.
10. Long Trail (Bolton to Camel's Hump)
HISTORIC RIDGE TRAVERSE
A section of the historic Long Trail extends from Bolton to Camel's Hump, offering a strenuous hike across rugged ridgelines and through dense forest. This trail segment is best suited to experienced hikers seeking a challenging adventure with rewarding mountain vistas. Along the route, hikers encounter remote landscapes, rocky outcroppings, and occasional backcountry shelters.