Neighborhood
Burlington & Johnny Cake
The Town
A Rural Gem in Hartford County
Burlington is a scenic rural town in Hartford County, Connecticut, nestled at the foot of the Berkshires and bordering the Farmington River. Incorporated in 1806, the town has a population of approximately 9,500 residents and is known for its rolling hills, quiet country roads, and classic New England character.
The Johnny Cake neighborhood surrounds Johnny Cake Mountain, the highest point in Burlington at 1,161 feet. Local folklore says early settlers named the mountain after surviving long, harsh winters mostly on cornmeal "johnnycakes." Today, the area is known for its scenic views, spacious home lots, and peaceful residential character.
Burlington offers a quality of life that balances rural tranquility with convenient access to Hartford (20 minutes), New Haven (45 minutes), and the greater Connecticut region. The town's historic green, framed by the 19th-century Elton Tavern and other historic buildings, serves as the heart of the community.
Education
Top-Rated Schools Serving Burlington
Burlington is served by Regional School District 10, which also includes the neighboring town of Harwinton.
Lewis S. Mills High School
9-12 · Burlington, CT
A top-rated public high school ranked in the top 30% of Connecticut schools (#55 in the state by U.S. News). Named after Lewis Sprague Mills, a local educator. Offers Advanced Placement and UConn Early College Experience coursework. Student-teacher ratio of 11:1. Mascot: the Spartan. Blue and white colors.
Harwinton Consolidated School
PK-4 · Harwinton, CT
Elementary school serving grades PK through 4 in the Regional School District 10. Known for strong community involvement and dedicated teaching staff.
Lake Garda Elementary School
PK-4 · Burlington, CT
Serves Burlington students in grades PK through 4. Part of Regional School District 10's comprehensive elementary education program.
Location
Country Living with City Access
Burlington offers the perfect balance: the peace and privacy of rural Connecticut with easy access to major employment centers. Route 6 and Route 44 provide direct connections to Hartford and the surrounding region.
Hartford, CT
~20 minutes by car via Route 4/Route 44
New Haven, CT
~45 minutes by car via I-91
Bristol, CT
~15 minutes by car
Bradley International Airport
~35 minutes by car via I-91
Nature & Outdoors
Explore Burlington's Great Outdoors
Sessions Woods WMA
A 771-acre state-owned nature preserve at 341 Milford St. Self-guided hiking trails and conservation education programs operated by CT DEEP.
Nassahegon State Forest
Popular state forest for hiking and mountain biking. Miles of trails through diverse woodland terrain.
Farmington River
Flows through Burlington offering exceptional fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and scenic beauty. One of Connecticut's most famous rivers.
Johnny Cake Mountain
The highest point in Burlington at 1,161 feet. Offers scenic views and is the 7th highest peak in Hartford County.
Burlington Falls
A scenic 15-foot waterfall on a short hiking trail. A hidden gem in Burlington's natural landscape.
Nearby Lakes & Parks
Lake McDonough, Burr Pond State Park, and Talcott Mountain State Park are all a short drive away. Swimming, hiking, and year-round recreation.
Explore Burlington
Things to Love About Burlington
Historic Town Green
The heart of Burlington's community, framed by the 19th-century Elton Tavern and other historic buildings. The site of town events and gatherings.
Lewis Mills High School
Top-ranked public high school in Region 10, serving Burlington and Harwinton. Named after Lewis Sprague Mills, a beloved local educator and author.
Sessions Woods
771-acre wildlife management area with miles of trails. Perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.
Hogan's Cider Mill
A popular local farm and cidery. A Burlington institution for fresh cider, baked goods, and seasonal treats.
Evening Sky Brewing
Local craft brewery in Burlington. A gathering place for residents and visitors to enjoy handcrafted beers.
Easy Access
Convenient access to Route 6 and Route 44. Just 20 minutes to Hartford, 45 minutes to New Haven, and 35 minutes to Bradley International Airport.
Nearby
Dining & Shopping Near Burlington
Burlington and the surrounding Farmington Valley offer a variety of dining and shopping options.