Burlington Parks, Recreation & Waterfront: Conditions For The Greenway & Rinks, And Winter Activities

Press release from the Burlington Parks, Recreation & Waterfront:

January 27, 2022

THIS is page to find all things outdoorsy to do this winter!

Stave off the winter blues by staying active. Studies show that just 2 hours of time spent outside in nature per week provide noticeable health benefits! To help you get out and enjoy nature while staying local, we’ve compiled a list of things to do right here in Burlington. We’ll post updates about conditions of the Greenway and outdoor skating rinks below.

Greenway Conditions:

We plow the path up to 48 hours after a snow storm, and will post updates here when the path has been cleared. Read more about our plowing policy.
Greenway update 1/24: Path is being plowed today.
Should still be good conditions for xc skiing! Remember – ski to the east, and walkers please keep off the ski tracks. Also, the Path can get icy. Wear your traction devices!
We created an interactive map! Our staff will update it as soon as possible to give you closer to real-time updates about Path conditions. Click here to view the GIS map on your computer or smartphone.

Skating Rink Conditions

1/18 update: Rinks have been cleared of snow. They’ll get a fresh flooding tomorrow, so please stay off them 1/19 to allow them to set overnight.

For more detailed conditions of some of our neighborhood volunteer-run rinks, follow them on Facebook!

• Calahan Rinks
• Lakeside Rink

Skating at Arthur Park & the Sea Caves

As of 1/18, the ice is thick enough to skate on. Two rinks and the skating loops have been cleared!
As winter conditions are variable, please keep off the ice if its soft. Learn more about this popular winter spot here.
Please note – if you choose to skate on “wild ice”, do so at your own risk, but take the following precautions:
Safety Tips for skating on wild ice

1. Always skate with a buddy (a member of your household)
2. Check for ice thickness and quality (test for at least 4″ of solid ice)
3. Wear a helmet
4. Supervise children at all times
5. Go during daylight hours
6. Wear a PFD under your coat

Be a Good Steward of the Land

Arthur Park is home to many large mammals such as fox, mink, racoon, and fisher cat.

• Stay on the trail when venturing to the Sea Caves.
• Avoid exploring the cliffs or the areas where the ice meets the cliffs. These areas are special travel and hunting grounds for wildlife.
• Leave no trace. Pack in / pack out your trash and belongings.

Snow Shoeing and XC Skiing at North Beach

The pilot program last year of groomed trails at North Beach has not been renewed for this season. Folks are welcome to blaze their own paths through the park! For a groomed ski experience, head over to the Intervale!

This press release was produced by the Burlington Parks, Recreation & Waterfront. The views expressed here are the author’s own.