The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Burlington

Burlington offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking options. Our guide features over 100 routes, with more than 80 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children.

The family-friendly trails around Burlington offer diverse terrain. You'll find everything from hard-packed gravel paths along Lake Champlain, like those in Red Rocks Park, to forested areas, wetlands, and gentle riverside paths. Many trails provide stunning views of Lake Champlain and the distant Adirondack Mountains.

Yes, there are several excellent loop trails perfect for families. For example, the Mill Pond Reservoir loop offers a pleasant, easy walk. Another great option is the Babylon Hill (historical) – Mary Cummings Wetlands loop, which provides a gentle exploration of wetlands and historical areas.

Absolutely! Burlington's prime location on Lake Champlain means many trails offer spectacular lake views. Parks like Red Rocks Park, Oakledge Park, and Niquette Bay State Park feature trails that meander along the shoreline, providing breathtaking vistas of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.

Many trails in the Burlington area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. For instance, Niquette Bay State Park has sections that welcome dogs, allowing your furry family members to join the adventure.

While some trails are suitable for strollers, especially paved sections like parts of the Burlington Greenway, many natural trails may have uneven surfaces. For the most stroller-friendly experience, look for trails explicitly designated as paved or accessible. The Intervale offers flat, recreational trails that are generally good for strollers.

Burlington's trails are rich with natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can explore the diverse ecosystems of Centennial Woods, enjoy views from Prospect Hill Park, or discover unique geological formations like Eagle Rock. The area also features historical sites such as Lexington Battle Green and beautiful water bodies like Walden Pond Beach and Spy Pond.

Each season offers a unique experience for family hiking in Burlington. Spring brings lush greenery, summer is perfect for combining hikes with lake activities, and fall showcases stunning foliage. Even winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing or gentle walks, though some trails may be less accessible.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hiking in Burlington, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning lake and mountain views, the accessibility of many trails, and the variety of natural environments, from forests to wetlands, making it enjoyable for all ages.

While popular spots can get busy, you can often find quieter experiences by exploring areas slightly outside the immediate city center or visiting during off-peak hours. Places like Laplatte River Nature Park or Centennial Woods can offer a more serene family hiking experience, especially on weekdays.

Most major parks and trailheads around Burlington, such as Red Rocks Park, Shelburne Farms, and Ethan Allen Park, offer dedicated parking areas. Some may require a small fee or have limited spaces, especially on busy weekends, so it's advisable to arrive early or check specific park websites for details.

Burlington has a public bus system (Green Mountain Transit) that serves various parts of the city and surrounding areas. While some trailheads, particularly those closer to downtown like parts of the Burlington Greenway or The Intervale, might be accessible by bus, others may require a short walk or a different mode of transport. It's best to check specific bus routes and schedules in relation to your chosen trailhead.