Rock Point
Welcome to Rock Point
Rock Point is a remarkable landscape of ecological and spiritual significance—a sanctuary for both wildlife and people. It is home to rare and fragile plant species, upland, wetland, and cliff habitats for wildlife, and one of the most visible exposures of the Champlain Thrust Fault in North America. Because of its rarity and sensitivity, it is critically important that all visitors serve as responsible stewards of this land. All are warmly welcome to explore Rock Point, and are asked to respect the use guidelines that protect this unique natural area for generations to come.
Stewardship and Mission
Rock Point is stewarded by Rock Point Commons, a nonprofit organization that works to build community around education, spirituality, and environmental stewardship in this spectacular landscape. Their purpose is to help people connect deeply with the land—its history, its sacredness, and its ecological importance—so that they, in turn, become caretakers and stewards.
Rock Point Commons relies on community support—through donations, volunteer work, and partnerships—to care for this land and to offer programs that inspire connection, learning, and reflection. Every day, their team works to balance inclusive public access with the long-term protection of this rare and beautiful place.
A Place of Deep Roots
Since 1854, Rock Point has been the spiritual home of the Episcopal Diocese of Vermont, cared for as a place of peace, reflection, and community. In 2019, the Diocese took a transformative step by placing Rock Point under a permanent conservation easement, ensuring that its ecological and spiritual value would be protected forever. That same year, the trails were opened to the public for the first time—extending the sanctuary of Rock Point to the broader community.
Connection
Rock Point is connected to a larger network of conserved green spaces in Burlington. To the east lies North Beach; to the north, Arms Forest and the Sea Caves at Arthur Park; and beyond them, the farmlands of the Burlington Intervale. Together, these lands form a vital ecological corridor that sustains wildlife and supports community well-being.
Access
There is no charge to visit Rock Point; however, visitors are invited to make a donation and obtain a daily or seasonal trail pass to help support their work.
Rock Point is easily reached by bike or foot via the Burlington Greenway. Bike parking is available at the Holy Trinity Trail trailhead and at the Rock Point Road entrance off Institute Road (note that bikes are not permitted on trails).
Parking is limited. The best access for trail users arriving by car is to park at Leddy Park and walk south on the bike path about 0.5 miles to the Holy Trinity Trail trailhead. Limited parking is available at 5 Rock Point Road from dawn to dusk. Parking after dusk, on the grass, or along Rock Point Road is not permitted and may result in towing.
Parking & Bus Stops
Features
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Wild Place Partner
