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Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail

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Hiking trails & Routes

Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail

Easy

3.0

(3)

hikers

Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail

Q: How long does it take to hike the Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail?

This route is designed as a hike and typically takes around 1 hour and 0 minutes to complete. The total distance is approximately 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles).

Q: What is the terrain like on the Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail?

The trail offers a varied terrain, featuring a mix of paved sections, dirt paths, packed earth, gravel, and some rocky outcrops. While many segments have gentle grades, some parts involve a steady climb to elevated points like the Ethan Allen Tower and The Pinnacle, reflecting the park's unique ridge topography.

Q: What can I see along the route?

You'll encounter diverse scenery, including a dense tree canopy and unique geological formations. From higher elevations, especially the View of Lake Champlain from Ethan Allen Park and The Pinnacle, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack Mountains, and Vermont's Green Mountains. The trail also passes through Ethan Allen Park , which has historical significance.

Q: Is the trail suitable for beginners and families?

Yes, the trails within Ethan Allen Park are generally considered easy to moderate, making them suitable for both beginners and more experienced hikers. Many paths are easily accessible and family-friendly, though some sections do involve a steady climb to viewpoints.

Q: What are the parking options for the trail?

Parking is available directly at Ethan Allen Park, which serves as a convenient trailhead for this route. Look for designated parking areas within the park.

Q: Is public transportation available to Ethan Allen Park?

Yes, Ethan Allen Park is accessible via public transportation in Burlington, Vermont. Check local bus schedules for routes that service the park area.

Q: Is the Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trails in Ethan Allen Park are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Ethan Allen Park?

No, Ethan Allen Park, as one of the country's first public forest parks, does not require permits or charge an entrance fee for general access to its trails and grounds.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the trail?

The trail offers beauty in all seasons. Spring brings lush greenery, summer provides shade from the tree canopy, and fall showcases vibrant foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, but trail conditions may vary, so check local reports.

Q: Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the trails within Ethan Allen Park are part of the larger Burlington Wildways Trail system. This specific route also passes through sections of the Cycle the City and Intervale and the Route 127 Bike Path, connecting you to other green spaces in the area.

01:00

3.80km

40m

Hiking

The Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail offers a delightful mix of woodland paths and open spaces, leading to stunning panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains. You'll find yourself on a combination of paved and dirt trails, including old carriage roads, as you ascend gently to viewpoints like the historic Ethan Allen Tower or The Pinnacle. This easy hiking route covers 2.4 miles (3.8 km) with a manageable 122 feet (37 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 59 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Ethan Allen Park trails are easily accessible within Burlington. There is dedicated Ethan Allen Park hiking parking available, making it convenient for those arriving by car. The park's connectivity to the 127 Bike Path and Burlington Wildways Trail also provides options for longer adventures, but for this loop, you can simply enjoy a peaceful hour or so in nature.

This park holds historical significance as one of the first public forest parks in the United States, with ties to Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen and its past as Abenaki homeland. Despite its urban location, it serves as a vital wooded refuge, blending natural beauty with historical context. It's a family-friendly hike that offers a quick, rewarding escape into Vermont's natural landscape.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

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Parking

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1.98 km

View of Lake Champlain from Ethan Allen Park

Highlight • Viewpoint

The Ethan Allen Park property is filled with a few different trails and paths that are great for running. The park shares a boundary with the Ethan Allen Homestead and brushes up against the Winooski River. You can also hop on the Route 127 Bike Path to add on some more miles.

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2.02 km

Ethan Allen Park

Highlight • Viewpoint

Ethan Allen Park is an urban park located in Burlington, Vermont. Named after the Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen, it covers 60 acres and features a mix of wooded trails, open spaces, and picnic areas. A key attraction within the park is the Ethan Allen Tower, a historic stone observation tower offering panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Green Mountains.

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3.80 km

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Viewpoint

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.56 km

1.04 km

204 m

Surfaces

2.43 km

930 m

220 m

115 m

< 100 m

Elevation

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Today

Saturday 11 July

27°C

16°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike the Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail?

This route is designed as a hike and typically takes around 1 hour and 0 minutes to complete. The total distance is approximately 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles).

What is the terrain like on the Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail?

The trail offers a varied terrain, featuring a mix of paved sections, dirt paths, packed earth, gravel, and some rocky outcrops. While many segments have gentle grades, some parts involve a steady climb to elevated points like the Ethan Allen Tower and The Pinnacle, reflecting the park's unique ridge topography.

What can I see along the route?

You'll encounter diverse scenery, including a dense tree canopy and unique geological formations. From higher elevations, especially the View of Lake Champlain from Ethan Allen Park and The Pinnacle, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack Mountains, and Vermont's Green Mountains. The trail also passes through Ethan Allen Park, which has historical significance.

Is the trail suitable for beginners and families?

Yes, the trails within Ethan Allen Park are generally considered easy to moderate, making them suitable for both beginners and more experienced hikers. Many paths are easily accessible and family-friendly, though some sections do involve a steady climb to viewpoints.

What are the parking options for the trail?

Parking is available directly at Ethan Allen Park, which serves as a convenient trailhead for this route. Look for designated parking areas within the park.

Is public transportation available to Ethan Allen Park?

Yes, Ethan Allen Park is accessible via public transportation in Burlington, Vermont. Check local bus schedules for routes that service the park area.

Is the Ethan Allen Bike Path, Loop, and Ridge Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trails in Ethan Allen Park are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Ethan Allen Park?

No, Ethan Allen Park, as one of the country's first public forest parks, does not require permits or charge an entrance fee for general access to its trails and grounds.

What is the best time of year to visit the trail?

The trail offers beauty in all seasons. Spring brings lush greenery, summer provides shade from the tree canopy, and fall showcases vibrant foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, but trail conditions may vary, so check local reports.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the trails within Ethan Allen Park are part of the larger Burlington Wildways Trail system. This specific route also passes through sections of the Cycle the City and Intervale and the Route 127 Bike Path, connecting you to other green spaces in the area.

What are the notable historical or geological features of the park?

Ethan Allen Park has a rich history, established in 1905 and connected to Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen. Centuries earlier, the Abenaki people used this spot as a lookout. Geologically, the park is situated along a ridge formed by an ancient thrust fault, resulting in unique crevices and ledges that are popular to explore.