The Mamas are on a mission to hike at each of our favorite resorts across the state, and this summer we checked out Burke Mountain for a short multi-family hike.
Looking for a classic Green Mountain hike with loads of views and deep in the woods immersion? Burke Mountain’s Summit Trail provides all of the wow-factors you’re looking for, and you can start a different points on the mountain depending on the group’s ability, time, and general state of mind.
Short, Sweet, and Summit-Worthy
Instead of starting at the base of Burke, we drove the Burke Mountain Toll Road—a winding, peaceful ascent that drops you just shy of the summit. We took in magnificent views along the way through the ski trail clearances. We parked in a large lot at the top and gathered the group of 8 for the breezy 0.3-mile hike to the summit.
The Summit Trail itself is classic NEK: fern-framed paths, mossy stones, cool shade, and the sweet smell of pine. Along the way, you pass the lookout fire tower, where you can climb to take in 360° views that stretch across Vermont, New Hampshire, and even Canada on a clear day. Even on a short hike, we always pack a few snacks to celebrate at the summit clearing.
This short jaunt is perfect for little legs to stretch without whining and was perfect to kick off our long day of adventures.
Want More Miles? Try These Longer Routes
For families who crave a bit more of a hike before the payoff, hike from the base area to the summit either along the Toll Road that we drove up, or a forested path. The Toll Road is 3 miles long to the top, and the hiking trail are approximately 3.7 miles one way, according to trailfinder.com.
For the cool forest covered hike, start in the base area at the Red Trail. A little over halfway up, you can choose to stay on the Red Trail for more great views of dip into the West Peak trail past two lean-to’s, which are great for a rest break. Both converge onto the Summit Trail to the peak and fire tower.
Cozy Up After the Hike—Hotel & Dining Options
After a day-long hike or multiple adventures, your crew might be ready for a little comfort or even a full overnight stay. Enter: Burke Mountain Hotel & Conference Center, perched slopeside and loaded with amenities to entertain.
At the lodge you’ll find:
- Heated outdoor pool and hot tub (mountain views included!)
- Family-friendly rooms—some with handy kitchenettes
- Easy access to both hiking and biking trails
- A pub called The View featuring mountain-view dining, cold local brews, and a kids’ menu that cuts the fuss out of dinner planning.
If you’re heading into East Burke village, our post-hike favorite is The Orange Rind at the center of town. There you will find fresh sandwiches, mountain bikers starting or ending their Kingdom Trails journeys, and riverside dining. You can even take a dip in the river and let the kids splash around on a summer day!
Top Reason Why We Loved Burke
- Drive-up accessmakes hiking to the summit super accessible
- Short trail = big rewardwith sweeping views
- Room to roamand explore at the summit
- Optional longer routesfor families who want more adventure
- Lodging + food all in one placefor a no-stress mountain getaway
Mama’s Must-Have Checklist
- Water & snacks or a full-on summit picnic
- Layers—the top is breezy even if the valley isn’t
- Sunscreen, hats and bug spray – always smart to protect the family from the elements
- Camera or binoculars for that “look how far we came” moment
- Swimwear and towel for a riverside or pool dip afterward
If you’re looking for a hike that’s short on sweat but big on smiles—and doubles as a mini mountain getaway—Burke’s Summit Trail via the Toll Road is your jam. Whether you’re into easy wins, longer mountain days, or an all-in family mini-retreat, this one’s got your name all over it.
Sarah Wojcik is the founder of All Mountains Mamas, starting it in 2012. Becoming a mother in 2017, she grasped the opportunity to share her passion of skiing and snowboarding with families across the U.S. and came on as a contributor and manager. Formerly the Director or Marketing and Communications for Ski Vermont, and currently the creative editor and digital partnership director at Ski Area Management magazine, she writes with great knowledge of the ski industry in Vermont and beyond, and from the point of view of a new mother working to get back out on the slopes with two kids in tow. She is also the proud owner of Vermont’s #1 family fun resource, FindandGoSeek.net.