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I’ve been to Burlington Vermont several times now, and I keep going back! I love the laid back vibes, art, and food and drink scene. And if you look a little, you can find incredible outdoor activities in Burlington, VT too!
Burlington is a pretty big city for Vermont and there aren’t many peaks; it’s mostly flat. However, the city is right on Lake Champlain and surrounded by the Green Mountains and Adirondacks, so you’ll notice that the people in Burlington love nature.
When I go there I see locals active with fitness classes, biking, and early morning outings. The city has amazing green spaces to enjoy, especially near the water and a little further out for great hiking and picnicking spots.
If you want to get out and enjoy this gorgeous lakeside city too, especially during the warmer months, I’ve put together this go-to outdoor guide. Keep reading for the absolute best outdoor activities in Burlington, Vermont!
Top Outdoor Activities in Burlington, VT
Save this list for an outdoorsy Burlington trip.
Bike along the Burlington Greenway and Waterfront Park
A great feature of Burlington and Lake Champlain is the Burlington Greenway. It’s several miles of paved paths for pedestrians and cyclists.
Check out the 8-mile stretch that runs through Burlington’s Waterfront Park. And if you need a bike, Local Motion is right along the pathway for rentals.
- Travel Tip: Hit the Greenway in the morning when it’s quiet! You’ll love having the peaceful paths all to yourself before the pedestrians join you. I am not big on cycling so I preferred no one else around!
Boating on Lake Champlain
One of my favorite things to do in Burlington was get onto Lake Champlain. The water is soothing, and if you go in the summer and early fall, the weather is perfect.
There are a handful of places along the water’s edge to rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and boats. Or you can hire skippers and book tours of the lake.
- Travel Tip: go on a sunset cruise to end your outdoorsy day! We went with Spirit of Ethan Allen near Waterfront Park. They serve dinner and the views from the lake are spectacular.
Do Yoga at the Lake Champlain Waterfront
Why not enjoy a quiet, peaceful morning along the water with some morning yoga? The grassy lawns and gorgeous boardwalks at Waterfront Park are a great central location for this.
- Travel Tip: Check local classes before you go! The Community Sailing Center in Burlington offers Yoga on the Dock all summer, but you have to bring your own mat.
Go Swimming at One of Burlington’s Lakeside Beaches
The prime location of beaches along Lake Champlain’s eastern coast is what makes them so great! The waters are generally calm and shallow, perfect for swimming.
The best beaches have soft sand and green parks with other amenities. They’re a great place to take in sunset with the Adirondack mountains in the distance!
- Travel Tip: Bike the Burlington Greenway to one of the many lakeside parks and beaches!
More of the Best Beaches in Burlington, Vermont
Yes, there are beaches in Burlington!
North Beach Park
North Beach Park is considered the best of Burlington, Vermont beaches. It’s popular so you’ll have plenty of company with fellow beach goers! But don’t worry, there is enough wide, sandy beach for everyone to enjoy. You can rent paddle boards and kayaks right off the beach too.
Leddy Beach
At the New North End of Burlington is the expansive Leddy Park. The beach there is wonderful because it’s less crowded. Park at the ice arena parking lot in the park and walk a trail to the beach or access the beach from the bike path.
Blanchard Beach at Oakledge Park
Head to the South End for the really cool Oakledge Park just off Flynn Avenue. This is where Blanchard Beach is located, a beautiful, curved and sandy swimming beach. You can rent paddle boards in the park.
Red Rocks Park
Red Rock Park is technically in the town of South Burlington. It’s open from 8am to 7pm daily and has designated swimming areas with picnic spots, restrooms and scenic overlooks on site. There are many recreational trials that offer hiking opportunities for those looking for a low-impact adventure.
- Travel Tip: If you have a dog, double-check city ordinances concerning dogs in public spaces. In Burlington, dogs aren’t allowed on city beaches and must be leashed in public parks. However, the new Texaco Beach is a dedicated dog beach in Burlington that’s part of a dog park!
Best Burlington Vermont Hiking & Walking Trails
Where to hike near Burlington, VT
Waterfront Park to Delta Park
When it comes to hiking in Burlington, VT, there’s a popular biking trail that runs along Lake Champlain. It’s a great flat trail for walkers and runners too.
If you start at Waterfront Park, it’s a solid 10 miles out and back to go out to Delta Park. The path can get a little crowded, but the views are absolutely worth it, especially if you go in the evening. Note: you cannot bike on the boardwalk itself.
Rock Point trail loop
If you’re going to be in Burlington during the spring or summer, check out the Rock Point Trail Loop. You can access the easy 1.2-mile loop on a peninsula by a trailhead near Rock Point Center.
This is a beautiful walk where you can see all kinds of local birds. Just be aware that you have to register for a trail pass online before heading out.
Ethan Allen Park & Ethan Allen Homestead
Just a few minutes from the city center are some wonderful low-impact trails. They’re a great way to go on a gentle nature hike and make for good trail runs. In fact, these hikes are popular and you’ll see lots of other people, including cyclists.
Check out these hikes at Burlington’s Ethan Allen Park:
- Ethan Allen Bike Path Loop and Ridge Trail: A decent 1.8 mile walk along defined paths with tree cover. There are great views, cool rock formations, and historic buildings.
- Ethan Allen Homestead Peninsula Trial: A flat, grassy 2.6-mile loop trail with views of the Winooski River. It’s great for birdwatching.
- 127 Bike Path and Intervale Bike Path Trail Loop: This is a shorter version of the Homestead Trail with a quick 1.6-mile loop around the homestead.
Red Rocks Park Trail
If you want an easy trail right in Burlington, Vermont, hiking the Red Rocks Park Trail is a must. It’s a mild 2.7-mile loop trail. Because it’s near the city center, it’s a popular trail that can get crowded. Enjoy lush forest trails full of vegetation. There are also great lookouts of Lake Champlain.
Mt. Philo State Park
Mt. Philo State Park not only has some of the best camping near Burlington, but also some great hiking trails! Just 16-miles south of the city, it’s a great chance to get outdoors for a few hours.
There’s an easy 2-mile roundtrip trail that takes you to a summit of the 1,000-foot mountain. Or you can drive up to the overpass if you prefer. I absolutely loved the views of Lake Champlain with the Adirondacks in the background!
Camel’s Hump State Park
About 45-minutes southeast of Burlington is Camel’s Hump State Park. Home to Vermont’s 3rd tallest peak, it has scenic trails for all levels of hiking,.
Dean Trail: This is an easy-to-moderate trail with nice view of the summit across the pond. Out and back it’s 1-mile, or continue another 1.7 miles to the right, uphill, to Camel’s Hump summit.
Burrows Trail: A moderately difficult trail, this 2.1-mile hike is more about the challenging experience and less about the views. It’s a popular hike with its trailhead at the parking lot, so you’ll see other hikers.
Where to Go Camping Near Burlington, VT
North Beach Campground
If you want to go camping near Burlington, VT, you don’t have to look far! North Beach Park has its own fully functioning campground. It’s a great option for beach goers who want to stay near the city center and the lake.
There are a variety of campsite options from tent sites to full hookups for RVs and campers. Or try out one of the lean-to sites. There’s direct access to the Burlington Greenway, and parking is free. You just need to make reservations in advance.
Mt. Philo State Park
I mentioned that Mt. Philo is a great spot for hiking, but it’s also a camp site. You can bring a tent or use one of their 3 lean-tos. The campground is small, but it’s the perfect location for serious outdoor enthusiasts!
Shelburne Camping Area
If you want a great “in the woods” camping experience close to the city, check out the Shelburne Camping Area. It’s a great RV site, but there are tent sites available as well.
There’s a camp store, picnic tables, and an outdoor pool. It’s near the lake, and you can find all kinds of city amenities if you need something that’s not in the camp store.
Camel’s Hump State Park
If you’re a fan of backcountry camping, you can add Camel’s Hump State Park to your Burlington, Vermont hiking trip! Camping at Camel’s Hump State Park is convenient for those hikers who have made the 45-minute trip out. It’s a nice chance to get out of the city and enjoy more rugged environment.
Have you been to Burlington, Vermont?
Located on the other side of Lake Champlain from the New York Adirondacks, Burlington’s outdoors have a lot to offer! From stunning mountain views to cool, calm waters near the city center, it is a serene escape from busy city life.
If you are planning a trip to Burlington, make sure to pair these outdoor adventures with my complete 3-day Burlington Vermont itinerary. If you want to check out the local food, breweries, and indoor attractions after your hike, don’t miss my ultimate list of the best things to do in Burlington!