This Vermont City Is An Underrated Gem For Nature Lovers
Set in the mountains with a lakeside view, Burlington is Vermont鈥檚 largest city, yet it remains a hidden gem for nature lovers. While towns like Manchester and Woodstock are well-known for their natural beauty, Burlington quietly flies under the radar. But don鈥檛 let its low profile fool you鈥攖his city offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. From rock climbing at Bolton Quarry to hiking America鈥檚 oldest long-distance trail, Burlington is an underrated paradise for those craving nature in a peaceful, urban setting. Here we explore what makes the city such an amazing underrated gem for nature lovers.
Why Burlington Is So Underrated
A view of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain from Battery Park in Burlington, Vermont.
Even though Burlington is an undeniably big city, it is underrated when it comes to exploring its natural scenery. Most people visit the city for its cultural activities such as the Discover Jazz Fest, Vermont Brewers Festival, and the Vermont City Marathon. However, the city is home to some beautiful natural attractions. From the scenic Lake Champlain to the majestic Green Mountains, the nature in Burlington is sure to wow anyone. What makes Burlington鈥檚 natural attractions so appealing is how accessible they are from the city. You don鈥檛 need to venture far to immerse yourself in stunning outdoor landscapes, offering the perfect balance of adventure and convenience. Whether you're seeking a quick escape or a relaxing retreat, Burlington鈥檚 proximity to nature makes it an ideal destination.
Natural Attractions and Activities
Burlington is a natural sanctuary providing an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities year round. From skiing to sail boating and hiking, this is a city where outdoor recreation lovers will never be bored. Near the city, discover the United States' oldest long-distance hiking trail, the Long Trail. Traveling 272 miles, the trail takes visitors through the stunning Green Mountains and offers spectacular views of pristine ponds, hardwood forests, and more. For a more leisurely stroll with amazing views of Lake Champlain, Rock Point offers 2 miles of walking and hiking trails through its 130 acres of privately-owned and conserved land.
Beyond hiking, there are opportunities for biking, running, and even rock climbing in Burlington. Climbing near the city offers panoramic views of the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain. Bolton Quarry is a popular rock and ice climbing crag just 20 minutes from the city. Bolton Dome is 30 minutes away and is the most popular sports climbing cliff in the area.
Burlington also has water activities for those who love venturing out on rivers and rocky coves. Take a kayak or canoe and enjoy Vermont's western shores. From Burlington, head over to Burton Island, a 253-acre Vermont State Park. The park is unique because it is only accessible by boat. Experienced paddlers will enjoy the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, which touches the Missisquoi River, Champlain Islands, and Vermont's Inland Sea.
Scenic Waterfalls For Adventure and Relaxation
Burlington is surrounded by some of Vermont's most stunning natural attractions, including waterfalls, babbling brooks, and scenic gorges. Just a short drive away, Bingham Falls in Stowe is a must-visit. With its cool mountain water cascading down rocks into a clear, refreshing pool, it's the perfect spot for a summer swim or a peaceful moment by the water.
For more waterfalls, head to Bristol Falls in Bristol, where you can enjoy a swim in the New Haven River's cool, clear waters. Another nearby gem is Moss Glen Falls, just a quick 5-minute drive from Stowe鈥檚 historic village, where a short, scenic hike rewards you with views of a majestic waterfall.
For an adventure-packed day, check out Warren Falls in Warren鈥攁nother breathtaking spot for swimming and exploring. While these falls are outside of Burlington, they are easily worth the short drive.
Burlington is also near Laplatte River Nature Park. The 145-acre nature preserve offers beautiful hiking trails along the Laplatte River. Another beautiful park in the north end of the city is Ethan Allen Park. This scenic 15-acre historic area, offers 4.2 miles of trails through a forested landscape, leading to the Outlook Tower with stunning views from Lake Champlain to Mt. Mansfield, plus a playground and basketball court for family fun.
A Community for Cyclists
Burlington is one of Vermont's most bikeable cities. Many of the natural attractions in Burlington can be reached by hiking or biking. There are several cycling and walking paths throughout the city, making everything fairly accessible. The Burlington Bike Path crosses through the town's parks and beaches offering beautiful views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and the city. Waterfront Park is one of Burlington's downtown parks along Lake Champlain that can be accessed using the Burlington Bike Path. Waterfront Park is a hub for community, it's near the Community Boathouse, the ECHO Museum, and Lake Champlain Sailing Center. The city also has a seasonal Bike Ferry so cyclists can continue riding on the Champlain Islands. There are several other bike paths in the city, including the Arms Park Trail, Riverside Bike Path, and 127 Bike Path.
An Eco-Conscious City
Flowers on Church Street, Burlington, Vermont.
Considering how bikeable Burlington is, it's no wonder the city is eco-conscious. The city has a Conservation Legacy Program, focusing on land stewardship, acquisition planning, conservation education, and nature-based climate adaptation. Some of the goals of the city's nature-based climate change adaptations include helping homeowners and gardeners' plant native shrubs and trees and incorporating composting stations in neighborhoods.
The city is also an affiliate of Bee City USA, an organization aiming to protect these pollinators and the plants they rely on in the United States. Burlington is home to 275 different native bee species. It has taken steps to protect bees by banning the use of neonicotinoids, a class of pesticides harmful to bees. Burlington parks have also increased places for bees to thrive by replacing flowerbeds and plants with native species that bees love.
The Best Time To Visit Burlington
Burlington is a year-round destination, offering something for every season. However, if you're aiming for the perfect balance of scenic beauty and outdoor activities, fall is an especially magical time to visit. The city鈥檚 streets and parks transform into a breathtaking canvas of fiery reds, vibrant oranges, and golden yellows as the maple and oak trees shed their leaves. If you're lucky, the crisp fall air will complement the stunning foliage, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop around the picturesque Lake Champlain. On warmer days, you can still find local charters cruising the lake, giving you a unique way to take in the autumn splendor.
Fall also marks Burlington鈥檚 season of celebration. It鈥檚 the time when the community comes together for cherished annual events like the Art Hop, which showcases local artists and galleries, and the Burlington Farmers鈥� Market, where you shop handmade crafts and stock up on locally grown produce.
Though fall is particularly popular for its stunning scenery and lively events, each season offers its own charm. Winter brings serene snow-covered landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. Spring brings fresh blooms and the reopening of outdoor attractions, while summer invites visitors to enjoy the waterfront and explore local parks. Whether you visit in fall or any other season, Burlington will never disappoint.
