People tend to visit places more when they’re close by, and for many Vermonters, Lake Champlain is not only easily accessible, it’s a mecca of outdoor fun. Whether you enjoy the scenery, boating, beaching, or fishing, there is certainly something that everyone can enjoy when they spend time on this beautiful lake in Vermont. Here are some interesting tidbits about one of our favorite places. Perhaps you already know them, and if so you get an A+ in Vermont geography. For everyone else, you may be asking, “How deep is Lake Champlain?” or “How big is Lake Champlain?” Well don’t worry, we’ve got all the answers to your questions, so let’s take this opportunity to learn something new!
Lake Champlain is 435 square miles of surface water. That's roughly 1/3 the size of Rhode Island! For those of you who love numbers, Rhode Island is 1,241 square miles.
Yes, but that wasn't always the case. It wasn't until February 19, 1932, that boats were able to sail on Lake Champlain. Until then, there were reports of ice on the lake during the winter.
Lake Champlain has 81 species of fish. It is well known for its bass fishing and in some circles, Lake Champlain is known to be listed as number 5 in the United States, but for us, it's still number 1.
There are three bridges that connect Vermont to New York that go over Lake Champlain. The connecting towns are Crown Point, NY to Addison, VT; Rouses Point, NY to Alburgh, VT; and Whitehall, NY to West Haven, VT. If you cross over into New York there is even a lighthouse along the shore. Make sure you check out the Champlain Memorial Lighthouse at Crown Point or just check out this Adventuring in the Moment video.
There are three ferry boats that connect Vermont to New York. You can find them running from Charlotte, VT to Essex, NY, from Burlington, VT to Port Kent, NY, and from Grand Isle, VT to Plattsburgh, NY. They run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Many believe Champ, the creature who may or may not live deep in Lake Champlain, is a legend that has been handed down through the generations. However, others have speculated it's possible such a creature does live deep in the lake, possibly a relative of the plesiosaur, an extinct group of aquatic reptiles. True or not, it's fun to try to spot him!
Lake Champlain played an important role in the Revolutionary War as it allowed movement from the colonies to Canada, as well as keeping New England a strong force. Again, during the War of 1812, shore towns on Lake Champlain built ships, particularly out of Vergennes.
Lake Champlain is part of two states and one province, Vermont, New York, and Quebec, spanning across two countries, Canada and the United States. Most of the Lake Champlain is in the United States.
17. Map of the Great Lakes with Lat/Lon and basin outline.
In 1993, Lake Champlain briefly became one of the Great Lakes when President Clinton signed Senate Bill 927. This caused a small uproar and the Great Lake status was rescinded. The dates that Lake Champlain was one of the Great Lakes were from March 6 through March 24, 1998.
Lake Champlain is the eighth-largest naturally occurring body of fresh water in the continental United States.
Once you’ve explored Lake Champlain, you’ll be tempted to check out all of the other lakes in Vermont. Make it your mission to swim in all of them this year!
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If there’s one thing that’s true about Vermont, it’s that Vermont has some of the most scenic hikes in the entire country. Whether you’re looking to climb up into the clouds or a short and sweet hike in Vermont, the Green Mountain State will more than meet your hiking expectations. The Killington Peak Trail is one of the most scenic trails in Vermont but be warned: this trail is not for the faint of heart. The seven-mile trail is pretty challenging, especially as you ascend toward the top, but your hard work will be rewarded when you see the epic panoramic views of the Green Mountains and the Adirondack Mountains. Don’t worry, there are plenty of short trails in Vermont that don’t sacrifice steps for scenery, like the one-mile Moss Glenn Falls Trail in Stowe, or the equally long Putney Mountain Trail, which still gives you incredible mountain range views without the strenuous hike.
Lake Champlain may be the biggest lake in Vermont, but there are plenty of beautiful lakes in Vermont that are perfect for outdoor adventures. Lake Parker, also known as Pond, is one of the most beautiful lakes in Vermont. Nestled within the Willoughby State Forest, Lake Willoughby is one of the most beautiful lakes in Vermont. It’s a popular spot for splashing away in the summer sun, and the views of the mountains in the background will just take your breath away.
When that summer sun starts to beat down, it’s time to find somewhere to cool off. Luckily, there are plenty of good swimming holes in Vermont, you just need to know where to look. Located within Jamaica State Park, the Salmon Hole swimming area is a great spot for a refreshing dip in the water. Hamilton Falls, an impressive 125-foot waterfall in Vermont is also located within the park, and you can easily dip your toes into the water and cool off after a day of hiking through the forest.
