Ethan Allen Park & Donahue Sea Caves loop
Ethan Allen Park & Donahue Sea Caves loop
3.4
(26)
72
hikers
Ethan Allen Park & Donahue Sea Caves loop
01:32
5.93km
30m
Hiking
This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) loop offers a delightful blend of history, panoramic views, and unique geological formations, all within a comfortable 1 hour and 32 minutes of hiking. You'll wander through the deep shaded woods of Ethan Allen Park on a mix of paved and dirt trails, some following old carriage roads, before reaching the historic Ethan Allen Tower with its sweeping vistas of Lake Champlain and distant mountains. The route then leads you to the fascinating Donahue Sea Caves, carved into limestone cliffs.
Planning your visit is simple, with parking available at Ethan Allen Park. The route connects the park to the sea caves area via the 127 Bike Path. For the best views from the Ethan Allen Tower, aim to hike between Mother's Day and Labor Day when it's open. If you're keen to explore the Donahue Sea Caves from the inside, consider a winter visit when the pond freezes over, making them accessible as "ice caves."
This trail stands out for its connection to one of the country's first public forest parks and its unique geological features. The Donahue Sea Caves, formed by ancient wave erosion, offer a glimpse into the region's past, especially striking in winter. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a high-reward, low-effort hike that combines natural beauty with a touch of local history, making it one of the best hiking trails near Burlington.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Ethan Allen Park
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.31 km
Ethan Allen Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
5.44 km
Donahue Sea Caves
Highlight • Cave
Tip by
5.93 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.09 km
2.50 km
309 m
Surfaces
2.47 km
2.05 km
693 m
299 m
239 m
152 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 15 July
27°C
21°C
43 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Ethan Allen Park & Donahue Sea Caves loop?
You can typically find parking available at Ethan Allen Park itself. The park serves as a good starting point for exploring both areas, though direct access to the Sea Caves from the park may require further travel depending on the season.
What is the best time of year to experience this route?
The best time to visit depends on what you want to see. Ethan Allen Park is enjoyable year-round. However, the Donahue Sea Caves are best accessed in winter when the pond freezes, allowing you to walk across the ice to explore them. In summer, they typically require a canoe or kayak to reach.
Are there any entrance fees or permits required for Ethan Allen Park?
No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Ethan Allen Park. It is one of the first public forest parks in the United States, open for everyone to enjoy.
Is the route dog-friendly?
Yes, Ethan Allen Park is generally dog-friendly, but always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them. Specific regulations for the Donahue Sea Caves area might vary, so it's good to be mindful, especially around marshy areas with wildlife.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?
The route offers varied terrain. Ethan Allen Park features a mix of woodland trails, dirt paths, and some paved sections, with gentle hills. The Donahue Sea Caves area involves a steep path down to the marsh, and access to the caves themselves depends on the season (walking on ice in winter, paddling in summer).
What are the main attractions or viewpoints along the way?
Key attractions include Ethan Allen Park with its historic Ethan Allen Tower and the Pinnacle gazebo, offering panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and the Green Mountains. The Donahue Sea Caves are a unique geological formation, especially striking in winter when they become 'ice caves'.
Is this route suitable for beginners or families?
The trails within Ethan Allen Park are generally considered easy to moderate and are suitable for various fitness levels, including families. Exploring the Donahue Sea Caves in winter is often described as an easy and accessible cave experience for beginners, provided conditions are safe.
Does this route connect to other well-known paths?
Yes, the route incorporates sections of the Cycle the City and Intervale trail, the Donohue Sea Cave Trail, and the Route 127 Bike Path. Ethan Allen Park itself connects to the 127 Bike Path and the Burlington Wildway Trail, making it part of a larger network.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
In Ethan Allen Park, you might spot common woodland creatures and various bird species. The marsh surrounding the Donahue Sea Caves is home to diverse birdlife, including blue herons and egrets, making it a good spot for birdwatching.
How long does it typically take to complete this loop?
The estimated duration for this route is around 1 hour and 32 minutes. This accounts for the 5.9 km distance and moderate elevation changes, but your actual time may vary based on your pace and how long you spend exploring the highlights.
Is this a true loop trail, or how does it connect the two areas?
This route is less of a single, continuously defined hiking loop and more an opportunity to experience two distinct Burlington attractions. While geographically close, the connection between Ethan Allen Park and the Donahue Sea Caves involves navigating different trail segments and potentially seasonal access considerations for the caves.
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