Outdoors & Recreation

Burlington is the ultimate summer basecamp for outdoor adventure, with Lake Champlain as your playground. Set sail on one of the most stunning freshwater lakes in the country aboard the Spirit of Ethan Allen or Whistling Man Schooner Company. Whether you’re paddling a kayak, fishing at sunrise, or simply watching the sun dip behind the Adirondacks from a waterfront park bench, Lake Champlain delivers unforgettable summer moments at every turn.

Pull on your hiking boots and hit the trail, Burlington is surrounded by spectacular options for every level. Lace up and climb to the summit of Camels Hump State Park, one of Vermont’s iconic peaks, or explore local gems like Ethan Allen Park and Rock Point Trails  just minutes from downtown. For a vertical thrill, Petra Cliffs offers guided climbing adventures for beginners and experts alike. Browse the full hiking trails listings to plan your next summit.

Two wheels are all you need to explore Burlington in style. Cruise the iconic Burlington Bike Path along the Lake Champlain shoreline, rent an e-bike from Burlington EBikes to zip through the city and waterfront neighborhoods, or gear up at SkiRack or North Star Sports for everything from road rides to mountain biking. Whether you prefer a casual spin or a serious backcountry challenge, Burlington’s biking routes have something for every rider.