view from boat launch area at the Park
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Shelburne Bog Natural Area

4.7
·128 reviews·Shelburne, United States

Discover peaceful lakeside trails and scenic beauty at Shelburne Bog Natural Area, a dog-friendly haven for relaxation and nature walks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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view from boat launch area at the Park

Shelburne Bog Natural Area

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover peaceful lakeside trails and scenic beauty at Shelburne Bog Natural Area, a dog-friendly haven for relaxation and nature walks.

4.7
(128 reviews)

"One of my favorite spots in the area. Plenty of areas to come out by the bay and relax along the trail."

Vertical photo
TIP

📱 Bring Your Phone

Trails can be confusing; keep your phone handy for navigation.

👟 Watch for Mud

Some trail sections can get muddy, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lakeside Picnic Spots

Lakeside Picnic Spots

Along the bay

Relax by the water with a picnic. Peaceful views and easy access make it a perfect spot to unwind.

Scenic Walking Trails

Scenic Walking Trails

Throughout the area

Enjoy clean, easy-to-follow paths with beautiful natural scenery and water views.

Allen Hill Trail

Allen Hill Trail

Part of the trail system

For a more challenging hike with rewarding views, this trail is a local favorite.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Navigation & Conditions

Trails can be confusing; keep your phone charged for navigation. Expect muddy patches, especially after rain, and be aware of potential bridge closures. Always check local conditions before you go.

Dog-Friendly Exploration

Shelburne Bog is a fantastic spot for dogs! Trails are generally clean and easy to follow, offering beautiful scenery and lakeside spots. Remember to keep your furry friends leashed and clean up after them.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Favorite hike within 30 minutes of downtown Burlington?

📱 Bring Your Phone

Trails can be confusing; keep your phone handy for navigation. Reddit

👟 Watch for Mud

Some trail sections can get muddy, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear. Reddit

reddit.com

Things to explore?

reddit.com

Visiting in January, love to run. Any good spots?

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leash your dogs and enjoy the scenic, clean trails together. Reddit

🧺 Lakeside Relaxation

Pack a picnic to enjoy by the bay with peaceful water views. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📱 Bring Your Phone

Trails can be confusing; keep your phone handy for navigation. Reddit

👟 Watch for Mud

Some trail sections can get muddy, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leash your dogs and enjoy the scenic, clean trails together. Reddit

🧺 Lakeside Relaxation

Pack a picnic to enjoy by the bay with peaceful water views. Reddit

🚗 Ample Parking

You'll usually find plenty of parking available, even on busier days. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(128 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Shelburne Bog for its peaceful lakeside views and dog-friendly trails, making it a relaxing escape. While some find the trails can be confusing and occasionally muddy, the ample parking and natural beauty are consistently highlighted as major positives.

"Such a fun park! Easy to get turned around, so be sure to have your phone handy in case you get lost. A few parts of the trail were muddy and there was a closed bridge. Even so, it was a great trail! Enjoyed a lake-side picnic and some awesome views!"

Frannie P

"Took our dogs on a beautiful 2.7 mile hike. Trail is clean and easy to follow."

Janet f

"One of my favorite spots in the area. Plenty of areas to come out by the bay and relax along the trail. Dog friendly. Always plenty of parking. A little picnic area with tables and a BBQ grill at the trailhead. Hardly anyone else around most times I come."

J

What People Like

Peaceful lakeside views
Dog-friendly trails
Ample parking

What People Dislike

Confusing trails
Muddy sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Shelburne Bog Natural Area is accessible by car. Parking is typically available at the trailhead. Specific directions can be found using GPS or mapping apps. Reddit

Information on public transportation options to Shelburne Bog Natural Area is limited. Driving is the most common method of access. Reddit

There is usually plenty of parking available at the trailhead, making it convenient for visitors. Reddit

Shelburne Bog Natural Area is generally accessible year-round, though trail conditions can vary significantly with weather and season. Reddit

While walking and hiking are popular, cycling access may be restricted to certain trails. It's best to check local signage for specific rules. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Shelburne Bog Natural Area is typically free to enter, offering a budget-friendly outdoor experience. Reddit

Natural areas like Shelburne Bog are generally open from dawn to dusk. Always check for any posted hours or restrictions. Reddit

No advance booking is usually required for Shelburne Bog Natural Area as it's a public natural space. Reddit

Generally, no special permits are needed for casual day visits. However, if you plan on organized events or specific activities, it's wise to inquire locally. Reddit

If a bridge is closed, look for alternative marked routes or be prepared to turn back. Always prioritize safety and follow posted signs. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Shelburne Bog offers a variety of trails, including scenic walking paths along the bay and more challenging options like the Allen Hill Trail for hiking. Reddit

Natural areas like Shelburne Bog often provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching due to their diverse habitats. Bring binoculars! Reddit

Restroom facilities may be limited or seasonal. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or be prepared for basic amenities. Reddit

The trailhead often includes a picnic area with tables and sometimes a BBQ grill, making it a great spot to start or end your visit. Reddit

A typical visit can range from 1-3 hours, depending on how much you want to hike and if you stop for a picnic. The Allen Hill Trail adds more time for a strenuous hike. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lakeside areas offer beautiful water views, especially during golden hour. The Allen Hill Trail provides elevated scenic vistas. Reddit

Nature photography, landscape shots, and pet photography are very popular due to the scenic beauty and dog-friendly nature of the area. Reddit

Yes, the natural beauty makes it easy to capture great shots with a smartphone. Consider the lighting, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits. Reddit

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, while early mornings can be serene and less crowded. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shelburne Bog Natural Area offers a pleasant outdoor experience for families. The easy-to-follow trails are great for younger children who enjoy walking and exploring. Reddit The lakeside picnic areas provide a perfect spot for a family lunch or snack break amidst nature. Reddit Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and keep an eye on children, especially near water bodies. The availability of parking makes it convenient for families to access the area. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This natural area is a fantastic destination for dog owners. The trails are clean and easy to navigate, making it enjoyable for both pets and their humans. Reddit You can take your dogs on beautiful hikes and find plenty of spots to relax by the bay. Reddit Just be sure to keep your dogs leashed and clean up after them to ensure the area remains pleasant for everyone. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Shelburne Bog Natural Area is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as it typically offers free admission. Reddit You can enjoy scenic walks, lakeside relaxation, and even a picnic without any cost. Reddit The main expenses would be transportation and any food you bring. It's a great way to experience Vermont's natural beauty affordably. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails

Shelburne Bog Natural Area features a network of trails, with some being easy and scenic, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors have noted that it's easy to get turned around, so keeping a charged phone with a map app is highly recommended. Reddit Some sections can become quite muddy, especially after rainfall, so wearing appropriate footwear like waterproof hiking boots is a wise choice. Reddit For those seeking a more vigorous experience, the Allen Hill Trail is specifically mentioned as a good option for a 'hard hike' with rewarding views. Reddit

It's important to be aware of potential trail closures, such as a reported closed bridge. Always check for any posted signs or local advisories before heading out. The variety of trails ensures that visitors can choose an experience that suits their fitness level and desired level of challenge. Reddit

Enjoying the Scenery and Wildlife

The natural beauty of Shelburne Bog is a major draw for visitors. Many appreciate the opportunity to come out by the bay and relax along the trail, enjoying the peaceful water views. Reddit It's a place where you can 'stop and stay a while' to truly soak in the nature and tranquility. Reddit The area is also noted as being dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their pets along for the scenic walks. Reddit

While not explicitly detailed in reviews, natural areas like Shelburne Bog often support a variety of wildlife, making it a potential spot for birdwatching or observing other local fauna. The combination of water features and varied terrain creates a rich habitat. Reddit

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