Burlington’s Best Outdoor Adventures: Top 5 Activities
Burlington, that lively city on the shores of Lake Champlain, is really a gem for folks who appreciate a good dose of the outdoors. With a nice combination of waterfront views, convenient trails, and nice parks, you can find a new adventure right around pretty much every corner. Whether you’re really into hiking, cycling, just soaking in the beauty around you, or like trying a few water activities, Burlington really does have just a little something for you. We will take a closer look at what I reckon are five fantastic ways to have some outdoor fun in Burlington, full of what makes them stand out, and why they’re totally worth putting on your list. Let’s explore a bit, alright?
1. Strolling or Cycling Through the Burlington Greenway (Island Line Trail)
That Burlington Greenway, sometimes referred to as the Island Line Trail, is super known and, arguably, loved by both people who live here and people visiting; it stretches for around 14 miles, running right along the shore of Lake Champlain, and you know, that means you get super amazing views the whole time. It is a paved path that’s seriously ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, and just hanging out. What makes this trail special, you could say, is the way it gives you these perfect snapshots of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains far away. Seriously, you’re able to find places to jump on or off the trail along the way, letting you just check out various parks and local spots with pretty great ease. Plus, you can go north toward the really special Colchester Causeway for an awesome ride that even includes taking a ferry if you want! That’s right, a ferry. Fancy that.
I like to think, from my own experiences, that a casual bike ride early in the morning or right when the sun is starting to set really provides that golden chance to snap some awesome photos and really savor the calm atmosphere. For instance, on the southern part of the trail near Oakledge Park, there is that area where the trees create this, I think, perfect natural tunnel. It’s nice! Thinking of hopping on the trail? There’s so much to enjoy! Read our full review: Burlington Greenway Trail Full Review and Details and prepare for some outdoor fun.
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2. Chilling Out and Exploring Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park, you know, right smack in the middle of Burlington’s waterfront area, that is, is this hub of activity and relaxation. You’ll find sprawling grassy areas, scenic walkways, and the coolest views of Lake Champlain right there, really creating the vibe for anything like family get togethers, picnics, or just hanging loose. Plus, the park has pretty frequent events and festivals happening all year round, meaning there is seemingly always a little something going on. Now, I personally, kinda like to swing by the park just to chill by the water and read a book, but what gives Waterfront Park its charm is not only that location on the lake, but too its mix of public art and close location to everything.
Right next door you will find the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, so too it’s almost an spot on thing if you’re really curious about learning just a little bit about the ecology and history of the lake itself. I’ve seen folks have parties there. They also had this food fest there once, I got way too many hot dogs that day, I would visit again though. You should look into the park! I suggest you check out more details by checking this out: Burlington Waterfront Park Full Review and Details if you need more info.
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3. Hiking the Trails at Red Rocks Park
Okay, so when you’re after seriously scenic hiking trails and don’t wanna wander super far from Burlington, then Red Rocks Park is, arguably, really your go to spot. Sitting right on the shore of Lake Champlain, this park features, typically, a bunch of trails, each giving these really amazing views of the lake and the Adirondacks. The trails, are they hard to walk? Most are reasonably easy, I would suggest, which makes them, really, perfect for just about anybody looking to spend a little time out in nature. I remember there were these, typically, big rock formations you could sit on, looking over the water. That area is awesome to zone out to for a while. One spot they call Sunset Cliff, by the way, offers these, honestly, amazing views, so don’t even miss that. But it does have its tougher trails.
It is true, some parts can be kind of challenging so it just makes it fun if you want more from your stroll. Basically, Red Rocks Park provides this little peaceful getaway where, seemingly, you can really feel connected with the landscape, even so close to city life. Ready to lace up your hiking shoes? Before heading out to this hiking destination, it’s almost worth giving it a bit of homework, don’t you think? Read our full review here: Red Rocks Park Burlington Full Review and Details to better prep for the outdoor trail.
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4. Paddling Adventures: Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Lake Champlain
Because it’s on Lake Champlain, Burlington has really endless open doors to those who have a fondness for the water, such as paddle sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. You can rent equipment at one of a number of places near the waterfront, so too it’s almost super easy for someone to launch out and enjoy just a little bit of time soaking in the sights while cruising along on the lake. Now, many would, kind of, agree that these paddle activities provide that different vantage point from which to take a look at the city skyline, the waterfront, and, also, that wide expanse of water. The water always looks fantastic. It’s good to know you might spot, maybe, diverse species of birds during your travels! It’s quite nice.
Going kayaking or paddleboarding during sunup gives, arguably, a just unique experience with, honestly, stunning colors reflecting all over the water as everything awakens. When the conditions are nice and calm you can paddle, very, very far; it’s, potentially, very, extremely, quite peaceful. I will recommend a look! Know someone thinking about jumping in a kayak or onto a paddleboard on Lake Champlain? Let them explore this more here: Kayaking and Paddleboarding Lake Champlain Full Review and Details to better their adventure planning!
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5. Bird Watching at the Intervale Conservation Nursery
The Winooski River, which meanders on by Burlington, forms that area known as the Intervale, a vital floodplain. This spot is great to visit because the Intervale Conservation Nursery is super known as a prime location for any type of bird watcher, mainly due to that diverse collection of habitats like grasslands, wetlands, and thick forest locations. It might interest you to learn that this area is actually part of the larger conserved area that offers refuge for, I have to tell you, more than 200 species of birds. I did see a bald eagle circling once! Pretty amazing.
Typically, spring and fall are those most optimum times to go since a lot of migrating species come over to that region. The Conservation Nursery really brings a good learning experience, a scenic view and a look into the life of birds within, that, very, region. Before your binoculars are even set and prepped, give this bird watching spot an inspection. Read more about it here: Intervale Conservation Nursery Full Review and Details to make sure your trip is the best ever.
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