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Centennial Woods Natural Area wilderness guide
Natural Area · VT

Centennial Woods Natural Area

Centennial Woods Natural Area is a protected natural space within Burlington, Vermont, offering a serene wilderness escape ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Natural Area652+ Trails

Designation

Natural Area

Total Wilderness Area

65

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Centennial Woods Natural Area

Centennial Woods Natural Area is a protected natural space within Burlington, Vermont, offering a serene wilderness escape ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Centennial Woods Natural Area, located in Burlington, Vermont, is part of the University of Vermont's network of natural areas. The area comprises a mix of habitats, including dense forests, wetlands, and open fields, making it a rich site for ecological diversity. Visitors can explore diverse terrain along well-maintained trails, perfect for hiking and nature study. This natural area provides a refuge for local wildlife, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species, which thrive in the varied habitats. Centennial Woods also underscores educational and conservation efforts, playing a role in research and environmental awareness, making it a popular spot for students and nature enthusiasts alike.

Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Centennial Woods Natural Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Woodland Escape at Centennial Woods★ 7.5⌖ 1 miHiking
Centennial Woods Natural Area

Woodland Escape at Centennial Woods

Explore the trails of Centennial Woods in Burlington, VT. Spanning over dense woodlands and wetlands, this area offers hiking and bird watching. Ideal for beginners, it's a serene escape within city limits. Best visited in spring or fall.

Riverside Retreat: The Salmon Hole on the Winooski River★ 7.8⌖ 1 miFishing
The Salmon Hole on the Winooski River

Riverside Retreat: The Salmon Hole on the Winooski River

Explore The Salmon Hole on the Winooski River in Burlington, VT. Known for fishing, hiking, and bird watching, this peaceful spot is rich in history and biodiversity. Ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature year-round.

River Joys at Winooski River Walk★ 6.5⌖ 1 miFishing
Winooski River Walk

River Joys at Winooski River Walk

Experience the Winooski River Walk in Winooski, VT, for a peaceful adventure. Enjoy fishing, wildlife spotting, and exploring historical sites. The area is typically quiet, making it perfect for a family-friendly outing.

Discover the Charm of Winooski Gorge Park★ 6.0⌖ 2 miHiking
Winooski Gorge Park

Discover the Charm of Winooski Gorge Park

Explore the easy trails of Winooski Gorge Park near Burlington, Vermont. Ideal for a leisurely hike, bird watching, and photography. Enjoy the scenic views, historical significance, and tranquility.

Stone Circles & Shores: Discover Oakledge Park★ 7.5⌖ 2 miBiking
Oakledge Park

Stone Circles & Shores: Discover Oakledge Park

Explore Oakledge Park in Burlington, Vermont, a serene lakeside area ideal for biking, picnicking, and kayaking. With partly accessible paths and stunning views of Lake Champlain, it's a family-friendly spot perfect during spring and fall. Rated 7.5 for its unique blend of nature and art.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ A variety of ecosystems including wetlands and mature coniferous woods✦ Rich wildlife spotting opportunities, particularly birdwatching✦ Educational walks and guided tours by the University of Vermont✦ The scenic and peaceful forest trails suitable for all skill levels
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Centennial Woods Natural Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Centennial Woods Natural Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Centennial Woods Natural Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Centennial Woods Natural Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Centennial Woods Natural Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no required permits

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Centennial Woods Natural Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Burlington
⌖ 0.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burlington, Vermont

A vibrant town offering a perfect blend of urban amenities and access to Vermont's stunning outdoor adventures.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Winooski
⌖ 1.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Winooski, Vermont

A small urban gateway offering easy access to river paddling and nearby hill trails, blending city convenience with outdoor recreation along the Winooski River.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
South Burlington
⌖ 1.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Burlington, Vermont

A vibrant New England town that offers outdoor adventures from lake paddling to winter sports, complemented by a lively local scene.

Essex Junction
⌖ 4.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Essex Junction, Vermont

A friendly Vermont gateway town offering easy access to diverse outdoor pursuits, blending peaceful waterways with ample forest trails and seasonal charm.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Shelburne
⌖ 6.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shelburne, Vermont

A lakeside Vermont town offering serene water adventures, scenic trails, and rich natural areas perfect for active outdoor travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water and trail activities; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Essex
⌖ 7.13 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Essex, Vermont

A family-friendly Vermont town offering accessible outdoor adventures with a mix of river paddling, forest trails, and nearby ski areas in a scenic New England setting.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowshoeingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Centennial Woods Natural Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.