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Chittenden County

Burlington

The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Burlington

4.8

(33)

889

hikers

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hikes

Dog friendly hiking trails around Burlington offer a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is characterized by its unique position between Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains, providing a mix of lakeside paths, riverine trails along the Winooski River, and varied woodlands. Hikers can explore trails ranging from flat, accessible routes along the waterfront to more challenging paths with views of the surrounding mountain ranges. This blend of natural features creates a varied environment for dog friendly hikes.

Best…

Last updated: May 13, 2026

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hikers

#1.

Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail

3.80km

01:00

40m

20m

Hike an easy 2.4-mile loop in Burlington's Ethan Allen Park, gaining 122 feet with panoramic views of Lake Champlain and mountains.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

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Tips from the Community

maniboyflex
June 10, 2025, Burlington Greenway – North Beach Section

From this section of the Burlington Greenway you can enjoy views of the North Beach, right off the path. If you want to stop for a break, it's a good spot for a swim or picnic. It has a sandy shoreline, restrooms, and a snack bar in summer. It can get crowded on weekends, but the lake views make it a worthwhile stop.

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The Burlington Greenway is an 8-mile paved path that hugs the Lake Champlain shoreline, offering stunning water and mountain views. It links downtown Burlington with parks, beaches, and neighborhoods. Don’t miss the northern stretch along the causeway and the seasonal bike ferry to the Champlain Islands. This section includes a boardwalk with signs advising cyclists not to ride, due to the narrow space and high pedestrian traffic.

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The Spear Street Recreation Path is a paved trail that weaves through Burlington's green spaces. This pathway links parks, recreational areas, and connects with other trails within the city, making it an ideal route for a run away from traffic.

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No traffic makes this awesome!

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The Spear Street Recreation Path is a paved trail that runs along green areas of Burlington. It connects parks, recreation areas, and other key cycling routes in the city. There isn’t much traffic, which makes it great!

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Jamie S.
December 20, 2024, Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park in Burlington, Vermont, is a scenic public park on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. Known for its breathtaking views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains, the park offers open green spaces, walking paths, and access to the Burlington Bike Path, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities like cycling, walking, and picnicking. The park also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival and the Lake Champlain Maritime Festival.

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Jamie S.
December 20, 2024, Ethan Allen Park

Ethan Allen Park is an urban park located in Burlington, Vermont. Named after the Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen, it covers 60 acres and features a mix of wooded trails, open spaces, and picnic areas. A key attraction within the park is the Ethan Allen Tower, a historic stone observation tower offering panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Green Mountains.

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The Burlington Greenway Bike/Walk Path is a jewel of our parks system and popular attraction all year round. Featuring eight miles of paved path, with aggregate shoulders for runners and walkers. Situated on the Lake Champlain shoreline, the path starts south of Oakledge park and runs north to the Winooski River. Along the way, the Greenway connects many major parks and facilities with residential neighborhoods and downtown Burlington commercial districts. The path is part of the Island Line Trail. The northern end of the Greenway features a few miles of packed gravel on a narrow causeway over western Lake Champlain, making for a spectacular view. Take the seasonal Bike Ferry to continue riding into the Champlain Islands. If you’re planning a bike trip, be sure to check out the helpful information on Local Motion’s website Restrooms (seasonal) are available at several points along the path: List of Public Restrooms Want to ride the path, but don’t have a bike? Check out these places for bike rentals. Be aware of ongoing construction on the Greenway, including engineering upgrades, updates for increased capacity, new “pause places”, and connections with recreation facilities. View the interactive map At certain times, the section of Path in Waterfront Park may be closed during events. Please read our official Path Closure Policy. Make sure to follow our guidelines for safe use:

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Burlington?

There are 4 dog-friendly hiking trails detailed in this guide, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These routes offer diverse experiences, from lakeside strolls to paths through local parks.

What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Burlington?

Burlington's dog-friendly trails offer a mix of terrain. You'll find well-maintained paths along Lake Champlain, such as the Burlington Greenway – Waterfront Park loop, as well as woodland trails with a classic backwoods feel in areas like Colchester Woods. Many trails are relatively flat, making them suitable for various fitness levels.

Are there any dog-friendly trails with scenic viewpoints in Burlington?

Yes, many trails offer beautiful views. For instance, the Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail provides access to Ethan Allen Park, which offers panoramic views of Burlington, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondack Mountains from the iconic Ethan Allen Tower. Red Rocks Park is also renowned for stunning sunsets over Lake Champlain.

What are some easy dog-friendly trails suitable for all ages in Burlington?

For easy, family-friendly walks with your dog, consider routes like the Spear Street Recreation Path loop, which is relatively flat and accessible. Oakledge Park also features gentle walking trails along Lake Champlain, perfect for a relaxed outing.

Are there any dog-friendly loop trails in the Burlington area?

Yes, several dog-friendly trails are designed as loops. The Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail and the Spear Street Recreation Path loop are both excellent options for circular walks with your canine companion.

What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Burlington?

The dog-friendly trails in Burlington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful lakeside views, the well-maintained paths, and the overall accessibility for both humans and their dogs.

Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the dog-friendly routes?

Many routes offer access to interesting landmarks and natural features. For example, the Granite Steps – Waterfront Park loop passes by the Granite Steps and Waterfront Park, offering scenic views of Lake Champlain. The Burlington Greenway – North Beach Section is also a popular highlight for its lakeside access.

What is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in Burlington?

Burlington offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery and lake access, while fall showcases stunning foliage. Even winter can be beautiful for hiking, though some trails may require appropriate gear for snow or ice. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Are there any dog-friendly parks or natural areas near Burlington that aren't specific trails?

Beyond specific trails, Burlington boasts several dog-friendly parks and natural areas. Oakledge Park offers trails and a beach, while Red Rocks Park provides extensive woodlands and shoreline access. The Intervale Conservation Area is another great spot for exploring with your dog, featuring diverse habitats along the Winooski River.

What are the typical distances and elevations for dog-friendly hikes in Burlington?

The dog-friendly hikes in this guide typically range from approximately 3.8 km to 8.6 km in distance. Elevation gains are generally low, with most routes featuring less than 50 meters of ascent, making them accessible for most dogs and hikers. The Granite Steps – Waterfront Park loop is the longest at 8.6 km with about 43m of elevation gain.

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