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I have been burlington Been to Vermont several times and I will go back! I like the laid-back atmosphere and art food and drink scene. If you look a little bit, you’ll find it’s incredible Outdoor Activities in Burlington, Vermont also!
Burlington is a fairly large city in Vermont with not many mountains. It’s mostly flat. However, the city is located right on Lake Champlain and is surrounded by the Green Mountains and Adirondack Mountains, so you’ll notice that the people of Burlington love nature.
When I went there, I saw locals actively participating in fitness classes, biking, and early morning outings. The city has stunning green spaces, especially near the water, but a little further afield there are great spots for hiking and picnicking.
If you too want to get out and enjoy this beautiful lakeside city, especially during the warmer months, I’ve put together this outdoor guide. Keep reading for the absolute best results Outdoor Activities in Burlington, Vermont!
Best Outdoor Activities in Burlington, Vermont
Save this list for your Burlington outdoor trip.
Bike along the Burlington Greenway and Waterfront Park
One of the special features of Burlington and Lake Champlain is burlington greenway. There are miles of paved roads for pedestrians and cyclists.
Tour the 8-mile stretch through Burlington Waterfront Park. if you need a bike local motion Just on the rental road.
- Travel Tips: Go to the greenway in the morning when it’s quiet! You’ll enjoy having the quiet path to yourself before pedestrians join you. I’m not much of a bike rider, so I didn’t like not having anyone else around!
Boating on Lake Champlain
One of my favorite things to do in Burlington is go up Lake Champlain. The water is soothing and the weather is perfect if you go in the summer and early fall.
There are several places along the water to rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and boats. Or you can hire a captain and book a lake tour.
- Travel Tips: End your outdoor adventure with a sunset cruise! let’s go together The Spirit of Ethan Allen Close to waterfront park. They serve dinner and the view by the lake is spectacular.
Yoga on the shores of Lake Champlain
Why not enjoy a quiet, peaceful morning by the water while doing morning yoga? Seaside Park’s lawns and gorgeous boardwalk are a great central location for this event.
- Travel Tips: Check out local courses before you go! Burlington’s Community Sailing Center offers Pier Yoga All summer long, but you must bring your own pad.
Go swimming at one of Burlington’s lakeside beaches
The prime location of Lake Champlain’s East Shore Beach is what makes it so great! The waters are usually calm and shallow, making them ideal for swimming.
The best beaches have soft sand and green parks among other facilities. This is a great place to enjoy the sunset and the Adirondack Mountains in the distance!
- Travel tips: Bike along the Burlington Greenway to one of the many lakeside parks and beaches!
More Best Beaches in Burlington, Vermont
Yes, Burlington has beaches!
north beach park
North Beach Park is considered the best beach in Burlington, Vermont. It’s popular, so you’ll have plenty of company with other beachgoers! But don’t worry, there’s plenty of beach for everyone to enjoy. You can also rent paddleboards and kayaks near the beach.
ledi beach
Expansive Leddy Park is located in Burlington’s new north end. The beach there is great because there are less people. Park in the park’s ice rink parking lot and walk to the beach or access it from the bike path.
Blanchard Beach at Oakledge Park
Head to the south end to the very cool Oakledge Park off Flynn Avenue. This is where Blanchard Beach is located, a beautiful, curving, sandy swimming beach. You can rent paddle boards at the park.
red rock park
Technically, Red Rocks Park is located in the town of South Burlington. It is open from 8am to 7pm daily and has a designated swimming area with picnic spots, restrooms and an on-site viewing deck. There are many recreational trials offering hiking opportunities for those looking for a low impact adventure.
- Travel Tips: If you own a dog, double-check city regulations regarding dogs in public places. In Burlington, dogs are not allowed on city beaches and must be leashed in parks. However, the new Texaco Beach is a dedicated dog beach in Burlington that is part of the Dog Park!
Best Hiking & Walking Trails in Burlington, Vermont
Hiking places near Burlington, Vermont
Seaside Park to Delta Park
when it comes to Hiking in Burlington, Vermontthere is a popular bike trail that runs along Lake Champlain. It’s also a great flat trail for walkers and runners.
If you start with seaside parka 10-mile round trip from Delta Park. The trail can get a little crowded, but the views are definitely worth it, especially if you go at night. NOTE: You cannot ride bicycles on the boardwalk.
Rock Point Trail Loop
If you’re planning a trip to Burlington in the spring or summer, check out Rock Point Trail Loop. You can easily access the 1.2-mile loop on the peninsula via the trailhead near Rock Point Center.
This is a beautiful walk and you can see a variety of local birds. Please note that you must Register Get your trail pass online before you go.
Ethan Allen Park and Ethan Allen Homes
There are some wonderful low-impact walks just minutes from the city centre. They are a great way to go on a gentle nature hike and get in a good trail run. In fact, these hikes are popular and you’ll see a lot of other people, including cyclists.
Check out these hikes in Burlington’s Ethan Allen Park:
Red Rock Park Trail
If you want easy access burlington, vermont, hiking The Red Rocks Park Trail is a must-do. This is a moderate loop trail of 2.7 miles. Because it’s close to the city center, it’s a popular trail and can get crowded. Enjoy lush forest trails filled with vegetation. There’s also a great viewpoint over Lake Champlain.
Philo Mountain State Park
Philo Mountain State Park Not only are there some of the best campgrounds near Burlington, but there are also some great hiking trails! Located 16 miles south of the city, it’s the perfect opportunity to spend a few hours outdoors.
There is an easy 2-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to the 1,000-foot-high summit. Or, if you prefer, drive to the overpass. I absolutely loved the view of Lake Champlain with the Adirondacks in the background!
Camel Hump State Park
About 45 minutes southeast of Burlington Camel Hump State Park. Vermont 3 locationRD The highest peak with scenic trails for all levels of hiking.
Dean Trail: This is an easy to moderate trail with great views of the top of the mountain across the pond. Go 1 mile round trip, or continue right 1.7 miles uphill to the top of Camelback Peak.
Cave Trail: This 2.1-mile hike is moderately difficult and is more about challenge than scenery. This is a popular hike that starts at the parking lot, so you’ll see other hikers.
Where to go camping near Burlington, Vermont
North Beach Campground
If you want to go camping near Burlington, Vermont, you don’t have to go far! North Beach Park has its own fully functional campground. This is a great option for beachgoers who want to stay near the city center and the lake.
There are a variety of campground options, from tent sites to full hookups for RVs and campers. Or try one of the slanted sites. There is direct access to the Burlington Greenway and parking is free. you just need Make a reservation in advance.
Philo Mountain State Park
I mentioned Philo Mountain It’s a great place for hiking, but it’s also a campsite. You can bring a tent or use one of their 3 pitched roofs. The campground may be small, but it’s the perfect spot for serious outdoor enthusiasts!
Shelburne Camping Area
If you want a great “forest” camping experience close to the city, check out Shelburne Camping Area. This is a great RV site, but there are also tent sites available.
The hotel has a camp store, picnic tables and an outdoor swimming pool. It’s close to the lake and you can find a variety of city amenities if you need something not found in the campground store.
Camel Hump State Park
If you like wild camping you can add Camel Hump State Park Start your walking tour of Burlington, Vermont! Camping at Camelback State Park is very convenient for hikers on a 45-minute hike. This is a great opportunity to get out of the city and enjoy a more rugged environment.
Have you been to Burlington, Vermont?
Burlington is located on the other side of Lake Champlain in New York’s Adirondack Mountains, where outdoor activities abound! From stunning mountain views to the cool, calm waters near downtown, it’s a peaceful escape from busy city life.
If you’re planning a trip to Burlington, be sure to combine these outdoor adventures with my full 3-day tour 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 Best things to do in Burlington!