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Waterfront Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 3,833 Google reviews · Running trail in Burlington, Vermont · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Waterfront Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Community park on the lake featuring a boardwalk, sailing lessons & kayak & canoe rentals.
What runners say about Waterfront Park
“The park is well maintained and being right on the lake is the setting for some of the most brilliant sunsets that I have ever seen.”
“We had a wonderful time exploring the area and walking along the shores of Lake Champlain while taking in the beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains.”
“Whether you’re visiting Burlington for the first time or are a local looking for a peaceful spot, Waterfront Park is definitely worth a stop.”
One of the best places to visit while in Burlington. The lake view is beautiful, can spend good quality time with family & friends. The cruise is a must when visiting Waterfront. Evening it gets pretty cold so make sure clothing is adequate.
It's a nice small park with some good views of the lake champalin. Could be a bit busy during the day but good place for an evening walk, or even a picnic, which we did! The highlight was the sunset!
Nice walk all along the water. Good views even on a rainy day. Gorgeous water and flowers blooming in season. Nice Rube Goldberg museum for kids. Great walking and biking trails that are flat and go for miles along the water with dog parks along the way
Waterfront Park is one of the highlights of Burlington and a perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon. We had a wonderful time exploring the area and walking along the shores of Lake Champlain while taking in the beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains.
Trail conditions & character
“We had a wonderful time exploring the area and walking along the shores of Lake Champlain while taking in the beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains.”
“There is wheelchair accessible parking conveniently located to the beach and docks.”
“There is wheelchair accessible parking conveniently located to the beach and docks.”
Plan your run at Waterfront Park
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteburlingtonvt.gov
- Phone+1 802-865-7247
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Burlington
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Oakledge Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 965 reviews
Located on Lake Champlain, this park has a rocky swimming beach, sports facilities & a playground.
Arms Forest
4.4 ★★★★☆ 5 reviews