ABOUT CHAMPLAIN
Adventure around every shoreline.
A JEWEL OF THE NORTHEAST
Nestled between the Adirondack Mountains of New York and the Green Mountains of Vermont, Lake Champlain is often celebrated as the nation's "Sixth Great Lake." Stretching over 120 miles in length and spanning 13 miles at its widest point, this breathtaking freshwater lake is a crown jewel of the region, cherished by Vermonters, New Yorkers, and visitors from around the world.
Rich in history and natural beauty, Lake Champlain offers year-round recreational opportunities. In the summer, its sparkling waters invite swimmers, boaters, and anglers, while winter transforms the lake into a playground for ice skating, ice fishing, and other seasonal adventures. The lake’s scenic shores and surrounding landscapes are a haven for wildlife and a delight for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lake Champlain's importance extends beyond its recreational appeal. Its connection to the St. Lawrence Seaway through the Richelieu River and to the Hudson River via the Champlain Canal has earned it the nickname "The Sixth Great Lake." This vital waterway not only links the U.S. and Canada but also carries centuries of history, from early exploration to pivotal roles in the Revolutionary War. Whether you're drawn by its serene vistas, its diverse ecosystems, or its storied past, Lake Champlain is a true treasure of North America.
LAKE CHAMPLAIN:
1.The original Abenaki name for the lake was “Pe-ton-bowk,” which means “waters that lie between.” Lake Champlain was renamed in 1609 by Samuel de Champlain.
2. Burlington, Vermont, is the largest city on the lake.
3. For over 250 years, since 1759, a ferry has been crossing Lake Champlain at the site of the historic Ticonderoga Cable Ferry.
4. As many as 300 shipwrecks have occurred during Lake Champlain’s maritime history.
5. Lake Champlain is the eight largest naturally occurring body of fresh water in the continental Unites States. It contains 587 miles of shoreline, 70-some islands, and 6.8 trillion gallons of water.
6. The oldest known fossil reef in the world is located in Lake Champlain, dating back 450–480 million years! At one time, Lake Champlain was part of a sea that covered portions of New York, Vermont, Quebec, and Ontario. Known as the Champlain Sea, it existed approximately 13,000 to 10,000 years ago.
7. Lake Champlain hosts about 81 species of fish and is renowned as a world-class fishery for salmonid species, such as Lake Trout and Atlantic Salmon. Other species include Yellow Perch, White Perch, Brown Bullhead, Bluegill Sunfish, and Northern Pike.