Love the outdoors? Head to East Burke for epic trails, mountain views, and small-town charm! In this post, I’ll share the forested trails, mountain views, and hidden swimming holes I discovered in Burke, Vermont—where outdoor adventure meets small-town charm in every season. It’s the perfect place to unplug and explore.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit East Burke is late spring through fall (May to October) for mountain biking and foliage, or winter (December to March) for skiing and snowboarding at Burke Mountain.
Tips for getting There
- By Car: East Burke is about 3 hours from Boston and 2 hours from Burlington via I-91 and VT Route 114.
- By Air: Fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV) or Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), then rent a car for the scenic drive.
- By Bus: Limited bus service available—driving is the most convenient option.
Where I like to stay
- Burke Mountain Hotel & Conference Center – Slopeside lodging with ski-in/ski-out access and beautiful mountain views.
Top Attractions
1. Ride the Flow at Kingdom Trails and Conquer Vermont’s Legendary Singletrack
© Colin/stock.adobe.com
Highlights:
If you're even *thinking* about mountain biking in New England, you’ve got to check out Kingdom Trails. Located about 40 miles northeast of Montpelier, this massive trail network is a dream playground for bikers of all levels.Recommended For:
Mountain bikers, outdoor families, and adventure seekers of all ages.What I Love: ♥
Over 120 miles of expertly maintained trails, options for beginners to pros, and breathtaking Vermont scenery around every turn.- Ride wide, smooth single-track trails ideal for kids and beginners, or take on technical climbs and rocky descents for a serious challenge.
- Explore a diverse trail system praised as one of the best mountain biking destinations in the United States.
- Visit the Welcome Center in downtown East Burke for trail info, maps, passes, and local rental shop recommendations.
- Enjoy stunning mountain and forest views while riding—especially in fall when the foliage is unreal.
Cost:
Day passes available; pricing varies by age and season. Check the official site for current rates.Best time to visit:
Summer through early fall for the best trail conditions and views.Local tips:
Rentals go fast on weekends—reserve early, and grab snacks from local spots before heading out.How to Get to Kingdom Trails:
From Montpelier, take I-91 North to Exit 23. Follow VT Route 5 North, then merge onto VT Route 114 toward East Burke. The Welcome Center will be on your left as you enter town.Address:
478 VT Rte 114, East Burke, VT 05832Phone: 802-626-0737
2. Climb Mount Pisgah for Big Views and Quiet Moments Above Lake Willoughby
© Joshua Conover/stock.adobe.com
Highlights:
If you’re up for a scenic hike with stunning lake views, Mount Pisgah should be at the top of your list. Just about 7 miles south of East Burke, it rises dramatically over Lake Willoughby as part of the iconic Willoughby Gap.Recommended For:
Hikers, bird watchers, nature photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.What I Love: ♥
Panoramic views from the cliffs, peaceful forested trails, and the chance to spot peregrine falcons nesting near Pulpit Rock.- Hike the well-marked trails through Willoughby State Forest, with access from a trailhead off VT Route 5A.
- Stop at Pulpit Rock—about a mile in—for cliffside views and potential peregrine falcon sightings.
- Explore the eastern ridge of the dramatic Willoughby Gap, part of Vermont’s scenic Northeastern Highlands.
- Start early to avoid crowded parking—trail access begins at the southern end of Lake Willoughby.
Cost:
Free access; no permit required to hike.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for best trail conditions and bird watching opportunities.Local tips:
Bring sturdy shoes and water—the climb can be steep in sections, and the views are worth every step.How to Get to Mount Pisgah:
From East Burke, head south on VT Route 5A for about 7 miles. Look for the Willoughby State Forest trailhead sign and designated parking area near the southern end of Lake Willoughby.Address:
Trailhead on VT Route 5A, near Lake Willoughby, VTNearest town: East Burke, VT
3. Ski, Hike, or Stay at Burke Mountain Resort and Let the Green Mountains Challenge You
© Burke Mountain Resort
Highlights:
If you’re craving classic Vermont skiing without the crowds, Burke Mountain Resort is your secret winter escape. Just 40 miles northeast of Montpelier, this hidden gem combines Olympic-level terrain with old-school charm and serious snow.Recommended For:
Skiers, snowboarders, families, and anyone chasing traditional New England slopes.What I Love: ♥
36 trails, 14 glades, a vertical drop of over 2,000 feet, and a community vibe you won’t find at bigger resorts.- Ski over 175 acres of terrain, including winding classic trails and forested glades—all with epic views of the Northeast Kingdom.
- Experience a rich ski-racing legacy at the home of Burke Mountain Academy, a training ground for more than 40 Olympians.
- Enjoy 217 inches of average snowfall every year, plus two high-speed quads and cozy base lodge amenities.
- Relax in a welcoming, uncrowded atmosphere where the staff treats you like a local and the mountain keeps it real.
Cost:
Lift ticket prices vary by season and age; multi-day and season passes available online.Best time to visit:
December through March for peak snow and full access to trails and glades.Local tips:
Book early for weekends and holidays—Burke may be a secret, but it’s a beloved one.How to Get to Burke Mountain Resort:
From Montpelier, take I-91 North to Exit 23. Follow signs to East Burke and continue up Mountain Road to the resort entrance—look for the base lodge signs.Address:
2559 Mountain Rd, East Burke, VT 05832Phone: 802-626-7300
Where to Eat
4. Warm Up at Cafe Lotti and Savor Small-Town Soul With Your Espresso
© sutichak/stock.adobe.com
Highlights:
Need a cozy, local café to fuel up before hitting the trails? Café Lotti is your go-to. Just steps from the heart of East Burke, this community hub pours quality espresso and offers a warm, welcoming space that locals love.Recommended For:
Coffee lovers, digital nomads, breakfast-and-lunch seekers, and community-minded travelers.What I Love: ♥
Small-batch espresso, all-day breakfast, and a space that transforms into a creative venue after hours.- Sip expertly crafted drinks, from lattes and cold brew to fine teas and rich espresso shots.
- Snack on fresh pastries, hearty breakfast options, and lunch favorites like sandwiches and salads made with local ingredients.
- Gather with locals—owners Johnny and Linda designed Café Lotti to be a social space for events, workshops, yoga, and book clubs after hours.
- Unwind in a laid-back, artfully curated space that feels like East Burke’s living room.
Cost:
Affordable pricing; most drinks and meals range between $3–$15.Best time to visit:
Morning for a quiet coffee, mid-afternoon for a mellow vibe and fewer crowds.Local tips:
Grab a seat by the window and ask about any upcoming evening events or workshops.How to Get to Café Lotti:
Located right along VT Route 114 in downtown East Burke—just a few minutes from Kingdom Trails and Burke Mountain Resort.Address:
603 VT-114, East Burke, VT 05832Phone: 802-427-3633
More Local Attractions
- Lake Willoughby – Nearby glacial lake perfect for kayaking, swimming, and relaxing beachside.
- Darling Hill Road – Take a drive or ride along this ridge for sweeping views and charming inns.
- Burke Farmers’ Market – Local produce, crafts, and treats from Northeast Kingdom artisans (seasonal).
More Places to Eat
- Foggy Goggle Osteria – Italian-inspired dishes and après-ski comfort food with mountain views.
- Mike'sTiki Bar – Casual and fun spot for post-ride drinks and food trucks, popular with the biking crowd.
- East Burke Market – Grab deli sandwiches, snacks, and local goods before hitting the trails.
Local Events
- NEMBAfest (Summer) – Major mountain biking festival with group rides, live music, and vendors.
- Fall Foliage Festival (October) – Celebrate Vermont’s colorful season with crafts, hikes, and harvest foods.
- Winter Bike Fat Bike Rally (February) – Snow-packed trails, group rides, and winter biking fun.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of East Burke, Vermont
- Lyndonville (10–15 min) – Visit local shops, grab coffee downtown, or explore the campus of Northern Vermont University.
- St. Johnsbury (20–25 min) – Discover art at Catamount Arts, tour the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, or walk historic Main Street.
- Burke Mountain (5 min) – Ski in winter, mountain bike Kingdom Trails in summer, or hike to scenic summit views year-round.
- Sutton (15–20 min) – Explore rolling hills, backroads, and peaceful countryside in this classic Northeast Kingdom village.
- Wheelock (20–25 min) – Enjoy forested drives, rustic Vermont scenery, and quiet local charm just off the beaten path.
- Concord (25–30 min) – Paddle the Moose River, fish, or explore the quaint center of this nearby small town.
- Victory (30 min) – Take a scenic drive into Vermont’s wild heart, perfect for birding, hiking, and solitude seekers.
- Kirby (15–20 min) – Discover open meadows, mountain views, and rustic charm along scenic backroads near East Burke.
Plan Your Trip