Wheeler Nature Park - Image 1
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Wheeler Nature Park

4.7
·40 reviews·South Burlington, United States

A serene natural escape with diverse trails, stunning mountain views, and a magical children's nature park. Free admission!

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry spells

Trails are less muddy

CrowdLow
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Wheeler Nature Park - Image 1

Wheeler Nature Park

Best Time

Dry spells

Trails are less muddy

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene natural escape with diverse trails, stunning mountain views, and a magical children's nature park. Free admission!

4.7
(40 reviews)

"A Vermont gem with a magical children's nature park and great views of Mt. Mansfield!"

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TIP

👟 Waterproof Shoes Essential

Trails get very wet and muddy after rain. Waterproof shoes are a must for a comfortable walk!

🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome

Bring your furry friends along for the adventure, but remember they must be kept on a leash.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Children's Nature Park

Children's Nature Park

Adjacent to the South Burlington Bike Path

A magical wonderland for kids with natural play areas, a tea party spot, and a homestead-style village.

Mount Mansfield Views

Mount Mansfield Views

Various points along the trails

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Vermont's highest peak, offering a serene backdrop to your outdoor adventure.

Diverse Trail Terrain

Diverse Trail Terrain

Throughout the park

Explore pine woods, deciduous forests, and open meadows for a varied and engaging hiking experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Mud: Footwear is Key

Many trails at Wheeler Nature Park can get quite muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking shoes are highly recommended to keep your feet dry and comfortable during your exploration. Don't let a little mud deter you from enjoying the beautiful scenery!

Toddler-Friendly Adventures Await

Looking for a nature escape with little ones? Wheeler Nature Park boasts a magical children's nature park area with natural play structures. It's a fantastic spot for toddlers to explore and connect with the outdoors.

Best Times

When
Dry spells
Why
Trails are less muddy
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
After rain (with proper shoes)
Why
Lush greenery, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Toddler-friendly hikes in Burlington?

👟 Waterproof Shoes Essential

Trails get very wet and muddy after rain. Waterproof shoes are a must for a comfortable walk! Reddit

🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome

Bring your furry friends along for the adventure, but remember they must be kept on a leash. Reddit

reddit.com

wildflower fields ??

🚴‍♀️ Connect to Bike Path

Easily access the South Burlington Bike Path from the park for extended cycling or running routes. Reddit

🌳 Nature Play for Kids

The children's nature park is a highlight for families, offering unique natural play experiences. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Waterproof Shoes Essential

Trails get very wet and muddy after rain. Waterproof shoes are a must for a comfortable walk! Reddit

🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome

Bring your furry friends along for the adventure, but remember they must be kept on a leash. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Connect to Bike Path

Easily access the South Burlington Bike Path from the park for extended cycling or running routes. Reddit

🌳 Nature Play for Kids

The children's nature park is a highlight for families, offering unique natural play experiences. Reddit

🚗 Ample Free Parking

Plenty of parking is available, making it easy to access the park and its amenities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(40 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Wheeler Nature Park for its beautiful natural scenery, diverse trails, and especially its enchanting children's nature park. The stunning views of Mount Mansfield and the free admission are significant draws. However, some trails can become very muddy after rain, requiring appropriate footwear.

"I'm new in town and it was late so I picked this park for my run. The grassy trails weren't suitable for running but it did lead to a nice bike path that runs along a golf course. I've noticed bike paths all around this park so I recommend. Get your run in on the bike path and relax by walking on the grassy trails."

Angela L

"Nice small hidden trail right next to a nice dog park and just across Veterans Memorial Park. Plenty of parking, dog friendly (must be on the leash). Nice easy walk with a great view of mount Mansfield. Great way to get a break from the city and reconnect with nature. Wear appropriate hiking shoes as it gets pretty muddy after a rain."

Zach Benedicto

"Beautiful little collection of trails; nice views, variety of terrain and flora. Pine woods, deciduous woods, open meadows. Free parking, easy walk if you don’t have time for a long hike."

Emily Pogozelski

What People Like

Magical children's nature park
Beautiful Mount Mansfield views
Free admission and parking

What People Dislike

Trails can be very muddy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wheeler Nature Park is easily accessible by car, with plenty of free parking available. It's also conveniently located near the South Burlington Bike Path, making it reachable by bike or on foot for those in the area. Reddit

While direct public transport routes to the park might be limited, its proximity to the South Burlington Bike Path means you could potentially combine public transport to a nearby point with a bike ride or walk to reach the park.

The main access points are typically from the parking areas. You can also connect to the park's trails from the South Burlington Bike Path, which offers a scenic approach. Reddit

Wheeler Nature Park is situated near Veterans Memorial Park and a dog park, offering additional recreational options for visitors. Reddit

Yes, the park is generally well-marked, especially its connection to the South Burlington Bike Path. Look for signage indicating the park entrance and parking areas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Wheeler Nature Park offers free admission and free parking, making it an accessible natural escape for everyone. Reddit

As a public park, Wheeler Nature Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. It's best to check local listings for any specific seasonal hours or closures, though it's typically accessible year-round during daylight.

No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit Wheeler Nature Park anytime during its open hours.

The primary restriction is that dogs must be kept on a leash. Otherwise, the park is open to the public for recreational use. Reddit

Yes, the park is typically accessible in the winter, though trail conditions may vary due to snow and ice. It offers a peaceful winter nature experience.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The park features a variety of trails, including grassy paths, dirt trails, and a paved bike path that runs along a golf course. You'll find pine woods, deciduous woods, and open meadows. Reddit

Absolutely! It's described as a 'nice easy walk' and a 'beautiful little collection of trails' perfect for those who don't have time for a long hike. Reddit

While some grassy trails might not be ideal for running, the park connects to a nice bike path that is excellent for running or cycling. Reddit

Visitors can enjoy great views, including a beautiful sight of Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak. Reddit

Yes, there's a 'magical' children's nature park area with natural play structures made from stones and logs, a tea party area, a sandbox, and more, making it a family favorite. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for scenic overlooks offering views of Mount Mansfield, the diverse flora in the meadows and woods, and the charming natural play structures in the children's nature park. Reddit

Yes, with its variety of terrains including pine woods, deciduous forests, and open meadows, it offers opportunities to capture different types of plant life and landscapes. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones, especially when capturing the views of Mount Mansfield.

While not guaranteed, the park's natural setting may offer chances to photograph local birds or small mammals. Be patient and respectful of their habitat.

Keep an eye out for wildflowers in the meadows, interesting textures in the bark of pine and deciduous trees, and the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The children's nature park also offers unique, whimsical photo opportunities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wheeler Nature Park is a fantastic destination for families, especially thanks to its magical children's nature park. This area features unique play structures made from natural materials like logs and stones, including a tea party area, a homestead-style village, and a sandbox with dinosaurs. Reddit It's an ideal spot for toddlers and young children to explore and let their imaginations run wild. The park also offers great views of Mount Mansfield, providing a beautiful backdrop for family outings. Remember to bring appropriate footwear as some trails can get muddy. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Casual Walkers & Nature Lovers

For those seeking a relaxed outdoor experience, Wheeler Nature Park offers easy walks through diverse landscapes. You can wander through pine woods, deciduous forests, and open meadows, enjoying the varied flora and fauna. The park is perfect for a short, refreshing break from the city, with trails that are generally easy to navigate. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the scenic views, particularly the picturesque sight of Mount Mansfield. The park's connection to the South Burlington Bike Path also provides an option for a longer, paved walk or bike ride. Just be mindful of potential mud after rain and wear suitable shoes. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Runners & Cyclists

While some of the grassy trails might be less ideal for running, Wheeler Nature Park offers a great option for those who enjoy a mix of surfaces. The park conveniently connects to the South Burlington Bike Path, a well-maintained paved route perfect for running and cycling. This allows for extended workouts with scenic views along a golf course. Reddit

For trail runners, the dirt paths offer a more natural challenge. Just be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially after wet weather, and opt for shoes with good traction. The accessibility and free parking make it a convenient spot for a quick workout or a longer training session. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Wheeler Nature Park

Wheeler Nature Park offers a delightful network of trails catering to various preferences. You'll find a mix of terrain, from soft grassy paths that are perfect for a leisurely stroll to more defined dirt trails winding through pine woods and deciduous forests. For those seeking a smoother experience, the park connects to the South Burlington Bike Path, providing a paved surface ideal for running or cycling. The variety ensures that whether you're looking for a quick walk or a more immersive nature experience, there's a path for you. Reddit

It's important to note that some of these trails, particularly the grassy ones, can become quite muddy after rainfall. Visitors are strongly advised to wear waterproof hiking shoes to ensure comfort and avoid soggy feet. Despite the potential for mud, the diverse landscapes—including open meadows bursting with flora—make exploring these trails a rewarding experience, offering beautiful views and a chance to reconnect with nature. Reddit

For families, the park's children's nature park area is a standout feature. This imaginative space utilizes natural materials like logs and stones to create engaging play zones. It includes a whimsical tea party area surrounded by wildflowers, a homestead-style setup with a play fire pit and teepee, and a sandbox filled with dinosaurs. This area provides a unique and magical outdoor play experience for young children, making Wheeler Nature Park a true Vermont gem for families. Reddit

Family Fun at the Children's Nature Park

The children's nature park at Wheeler Nature Park is a major draw for families with young children, earning rave reviews for its imaginative design. Unlike traditional playgrounds, this area is built using natural elements, fostering a deeper connection with the environment. Kids can engage in pretend play at a charming tea party area nestled amongst wildflowers, or explore a homestead-style village complete with a play fire pit and teepee. Reddit

Further exploration reveals a sandbox filled with dinosaurs, sparking prehistoric adventures, and a gazebo that feels like a treehouse, offering a unique vantage point. The entire area is designed to encourage creativity and exploration, making it a beloved spot for toddlers and young children. Its accessibility from the South Burlington Bike Path also makes it an easy destination for families looking for a fun and engaging outdoor activity. Reddit

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