The best running trails around Burlington

There are over 80 dedicated running routes around Burlington, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include 11 easy routes perfect for beginners, 64 moderate trails, and 8 more challenging options for experienced runners.

The running routes in Burlington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Runners frequently praise the diverse trail networks, scenic lake views, and riverine paths that define the area's outdoor experience.

Yes, Burlington offers several easy running routes. A great option is the Running loop from Woburn, which is just over 3 km and perfect for a quick, relaxed jog. The region has 11 easy routes in total, many of which are flat and scenic.

For stunning lake views, the Burlington Greenway, also known as the Island Line Trail, is unparalleled. This path stretches along the Lake Champlain shoreline, offering breathtaking vistas of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains. Waterfront Park also provides direct access to the Burlington Bike Path with excellent lake views.

If you're looking for a challenge, the Vine Brook Path loop from Bedford is a difficult 19.9 km route with notable elevation changes. Additionally, Ethan Allen Park offers a mix of paved and dirt trails with more hills than the flatter bike paths, and Red Rocks Park features 'The Pit,' a challenging section with a steep drop and climb.

Many of Burlington's paved paths and wider trails are suitable for families and strollers. The Burlington Greenway (Island Line Trail) is an excellent choice, as it's mostly flat and passes through scenic parks and beaches. The Spear Street Recreation Path also provides a traffic-free, paved experience connecting various green spaces.

Burlington is generally very dog-friendly, with many parks and trails welcoming leashed dogs. Areas like Centennial Woods and Oakledge Park offer wooded and open spaces ideal for running with your canine companion. Always check specific park regulations for any restrictions.

Burlington's routes offer access to several natural and historical landmarks. You can explore the unique tree formations of the Burled Forest, or visit Lexington Battle Green for a historical touch. The Winooski River area, including Salmon Hole Park, is great for observing wildlife. For panoramic views, the historic tower at Ethan Allen Park is a must-see, and Prospect Hill Park also offers great viewpoints.

Yes, many of Burlington's running routes are designed as loops. For example, the Lexington Battle Green – Minuteman Bikeway loop from Lexington is a popular 12.8 km circular route. Ethan Allen Park also features a 1.5-mile main outer loop that can be extended with side paths.

Many of Burlington's parks and trailheads offer designated parking areas. For instance, Oakledge Park, Waterfront Park, and Ethan Allen Park typically have parking available. For routes like the Burlington Greenway, you can often find parking at various access points along the trail.

Burlington has a good public transport system, and many popular running areas are accessible by bus. The Burlington Greenway, for example, runs through the city and can be reached from various points served by public transport. Checking local bus routes will help you find the most convenient access points.

Beyond the well-known paths, explore areas like Centennial Woods, a 65-acre natural area with diverse landscapes perfect for a refreshing jog. Rock Point also offers two miles of public trails with unique geological features and diverse plant species, providing a more rugged and secluded running experience.