1.
View from Mount Pisgah – View of Lake Willoughby loop from Mount Pisgah
8.13km
01:19
480m
480m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
The best running trails around West Burke
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 4, 2026
If you've ever tried planning your jogging around West Burke, Vermont, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and scenic roads, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort. That's where we come in: our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so we've curated a shortlist of the very best to save you the guesswork.
Jogging around West Burke is an experience defined by its diverse terrain. Expect everything from rolling hills and dense woodlands to challenging mountain ascents and serene lake views. The region offers a fantastic mix, from moderate loops with gentle ascents to more demanding climbs that reward you with panoramic vistas. While many trails are accessible for much of the year, the vibrant fall foliage season truly transforms the landscape, making it a particularly special time to hit the trails.
If you only do one run, make it the View from Mount Pisgah – View of Lake Willoughby loop from Mount Pisgah. This 5.1 miles (8.1 km) route is a challenging climb, but the significant elevation gain pays off with truly spectacular views of Lake Willoughby. For a more moderate option that still delivers on scenery, we love the Running loop from Pudding Hill, a 5.5 miles (8.9 km) path with gentle ascents and descents through varied terrain. More than 25 runners have already used komoot to explore West Burke's varied landscape, so dive in and find your next favorite route!
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| View from Mount Pisgah – View of Lake Willoughby loop from Mount Pisgah | 8.13 km | 480 m | Hard |
| Running loop from Pudding Hill | 8.87 km | 130 m | Moderate |
| Darling Hill loop from East Burke | 8.74 km | 150 m | Moderate |
2.
Running loop from Pudding Hill
8.87km
01:05
130m
130m
The Running loop from Pudding Hill offers a straightforward and consistent jogging experience, perfect for those seeking a moderate workout. With 5.5 miles (8.9 km) of trail and 430 feet (131 metres) of elevation gain, you can expect a good cardiovascular challenge over roughly 1 hour and 4 minutes. It's a solid choice for maintaining your fitness routine or enjoying a refreshing run in the local area.
When planning your visit, remember to account for the moderate difficulty and duration. Ensure you bring adequate hydration, especially during warmer months, to stay comfortable throughout your run. As specific parking details are not provided, it's wise to research public access points near the trail's starting location before you go.
This loop is a reliable option for a regular jogging session, providing a consistent path for your workout. Its moderate rating makes it accessible for many runners, offering a chance to enjoy the outdoors without requiring extensive navigation or technical skills. It's a practical choice for a focused run.
View route
3.
Darling Hill loop from East Burke
8.74km
01:01
150m
150m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
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Tips from the Community
Lisa
June 23, 2025, View of Lake Willoughby
A great lookout point, just a bit northwest of Mount Pisgah's summit. This is a great spot for photos of Lake Willoughby.
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Lisa
June 23, 2025, View of Lake Willoughby from Pulpit Rock
Pulpit Rock is perfectly situated to take advantage of a gap in the trees. That's Lake Willoughby down below.
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Alex
December 8, 2023, Darling Hill
Darling Hill, just off Darling Hill Road, is a popular recreation area for Vermonters. Trail running, hiking, and biking are popular here in the summer, and in the winter, this area is popular for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. For cross-country skiers, this area of Darling Hill is said to be the “prettiest mile in Vermont.”
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Tyler Sanders
November 30, 2023, Boardwalk Between Ponds on Mount Pisgah South Trail
This trail leads you to Mount Pisgah, providing stunning views of Lake Willoughby throughout. This segment takes you between two charming ponds on a wooden boardwalk, offering some unique views.
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Ruben
September 25, 2023, View of Lake Willoughby from Pulpit Rock
View of Lake Willoughby
Translated by Google•
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Ruben
September 25, 2023, View from Mount Pisgah
Small clearing in front of the summit, from where you can have a wonderful view over the tree tops into the distance.
Translated by Google•
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of running routes can I find in West Burke?
West Burke offers a variety of running routes characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and scenic lake views. You'll find options ranging from moderate loops to more challenging trails with significant elevation gains, providing diverse experiences for runners.
Are there any advanced running trails in the West Burke area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, West Burke features at least one difficult running route. The View from Mount Pisgah – View of Lake Willoughby loop from Mount Pisgah is a demanding 5.1-mile (8.1 km) trail with significant elevation gain, leading to panoramic views of Lake Willoughby.
What are some moderate running options around West Burke?
Several moderate running routes are available. The Running loop from Pudding Hill is a 5.5-mile (8.9 km) path with gentle ascents and descents. Another great option is the Darling Hill loop from East Burke, a 5.4-mile (8.7 km) trail through forests and open landscapes.
Are the running routes in West Burke typically loop trails?
Yes, many of the popular running routes in West Burke are designed as loops. This allows runners to start and finish at the same point without needing to retrace their steps, offering a continuous and varied experience.
What kind of distances can I expect from running trails in West Burke?
The running routes in West Burke generally range from approximately 5.1 miles (8.1 km) to 5.5 miles (8.9 km). These distances offer a good workout for most runners, typically taking between 1 hour and 1 hour 20 minutes to complete.
What scenic viewpoints can I find along the running paths in West Burke?
Many routes offer stunning views, particularly of Lake Willoughby. The View from Mount Pisgah – View of Lake Willoughby loop from Mount Pisgah is specifically known for its panoramic vistas. Other notable viewpoints in the area include View of Lake Willoughby from Pulpit Rock and View of Lake Willoughby from North Overlook.
Are there any interesting landmarks or natural attractions near the running routes?
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty. Along or near the running routes, you can find attractions such as Burke Mountain Climb, the Boardwalk Between Ponds on Mount Pisgah South Trail, and the serene Bean Pond. Lake Willoughby itself is a major draw, with spots like South Beach, Lake Willoughby.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in West Burke?
West Burke is beautiful year-round, but spring, summer, and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions for jogging, with lush woodlands and vibrant foliage. The scenic lake views are stunning in warmer months. Winter jogging is also possible for those prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow, offering a different kind of serene beauty.
How many runners typically explore the trails in West Burke using komoot?
The running trails around West Burke are popular among the komoot community, with over 25 runners having explored the varied terrain using the platform. This indicates a well-regarded and active running scene in the area.
Can I expect varied terrain on the running routes in West Burke?
Absolutely. The routes in West Burke are known for their varied terrain, including rolling hills, dense forests, and open landscapes. You'll encounter both gentle ascents and descents, as well as more significant climbs on certain trails, providing a dynamic running experience.
Are there any less-trafficked or 'hidden gem' running routes in the area?
While the guide highlights popular routes, exploring options like the Running loop from Pudding Hill or the Darling Hill loop from East Burke can offer a slightly quieter experience compared to the most frequented trails, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings with fewer crowds.
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