Outdoors

Lake Champlain is one of the largest fresh water lakes in the United States so it's no surprise that the region is bustling with water sports and outdoor activities.

During the winter, the region affords opportunities for skiing, skating, camping, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and snowshoeing. In summer, legions of adventure-seekers and beach-goers flood the region for Lake Champlain boating, swimming, sailing, kayaking, water skiing and fishing. The lake offers several full-service marinas and launch sites, so it's easy to bring your boat and take a ride. Or book a guided cruise and enjoy the scenery – recreational boaters rejoice at the breathtaking views of the Green and Adirondack Mountains sheltering Lake Champlain.

If you prefer to stay on dry land, the region boasts six golf courses and hundreds of miles of Lake Champlain biking and hiking trails. For cyclists, the Champlain Valley offers flat roads and unbeatable scenery that attracts riders from around the world. If you prefer hiking, we recommend scaling one of the mountains surrounding the lake— try Mount Defiance and enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Champlain, Fort Ticonderoga, and the Green Mountains of Vermont. You can drive almost to the summit on a historic road made by the army of British General Burgoyne in 1777, and then walk to the observation deck.

For birders, don't miss the largest birding trail in North America. It winds along the Lake Champlain Basin, which is within the Atlantic Flyway. During spring and fall migrations it is a premier spot to watch migrating waterfowl, shorebirds, hawks and songbirds—you'll have the opportunity to add several species to your life list.