On the trail of a legend
Somewhere, in the vast, deep waters of Lake Champlain, resides a legend. Not just any legend, but the most legendary of all the regional stories that get passed down from one generation to the next. This legend, hundreds—perhaps even thousands—of years old, has intrigued, tempted, and frankly eluded humans, yet remains a vital, famous part of life around the lake. It’s name is Champ.
Is Champ real?
Champ is a cryptozoological enigma. “But wait, what’s cryptozoology?” It’s legendary fun, is what it is! Cryptozoology is the fancy term for searching for and studying mythical and legendary creatures, like the Yeti, Bigfoot, chupacabra, and yes, Champ.
Not everyone agrees on the existence of Champ, but that’s part of what makes it so interesting and exciting. Enthusiasts study sonar readings and photos with mysterious shadows under the lake’s surface, even record podcasts! You never know if you might see a glimpse of Champ, and the adventure of searching and learning more is in itself a scenic quest through time, history, and the waves of Lake Champlain. For would-be cryptozoologists, here’s our guide to getting to know Champ.
Don’t miss
The Champ Sightings display in Port Henry. Newly refurbished, this board of honor lists Champ sightings going back to the 1600s. Will your name be on the board?
Stop in at the Lake Champlain Visitor’s Center in Port Henry. Located at the base of the New York-Vermont bridge and adjacent to Crown Point State Historic Site, this is where you’ll find Suzanne, a local expert on all things Lake Champlain Region, including Champ. She might even give you a very special Champ sticker.
Stay
What if you could spend your mornings sitting lakeside with a cup of coffee and a pair of binoculars, taking in the epic views of the lake and watching for Champ? Or spend your evenings at a lakeside fire listening for the splash of flippers in the water? Do just that with a stay at Lady on the Lake in Essex, where cheerful cottages offer porch swings, picturesque gardens, and plenty of opportunities to watch for Champ.
Go for a dive (or a swim)
It’s not for everyone, but if you really want to explore the depths of the lake, a dive is a great way to see the lake from a new perspective and possibly catch a glimpse of this aquatic mystery on its home turf. Businesses like A+ Pro Divers in nearby Plattsburgh offer diving instruction and personalized, guided dives along the New York shoreline.
Swimmers will enjoy beaches at locations like Bulwagga Bay, where Champ has allegedly been spotted in the past, or Noblewood Park in Willsboro, which is also a great location for birding. Perhaps the birds know where Champ is…
Celebrate with your people
Every August, Port Henry, Champ’s adopted “hometown,” celebrates this mysterious cryptid with Port Henry’s Champ Day Festival. This is your best chance to enjoy Champ-themed games for all ages, lake monster parade, and lake-oriented fun like a cardboard boat race.
Sail
If a dive under the waves isn’t your thing, then how about a trip over the tops of them? In the warmer months, heave ho on a Sail Adirondacks cruise. Sail Adirondacks gives travelers the chance to glide over the depths of the lake on classic sailboats manned by experts, the only such business you’ll find around here. Champ enthusiasts need no prior sailing experience, just the enthusiasm to relax, enjoy the breeze, and keep a sharp pair of eyes on the waves.
But don’t forget the ferry! Traveling year-round (weather permitting) between Essex and Charlotte, Vermont, the 30-minute ride is an easy way to get out on the water. Visit Vermont for a bit, then make the return trip to Essex for a round-trip Champ sighting adventure.
Dress the part
The residents of the Lake Champlain Region take a lot of pride in their most famous resident and local businesses and artists find inspiration in Champ and help share the love. Throughout the area, cryptid lovers and Champ hunters can stock up on locally-designed and crafted goods.
A stop at Snowfort Books in Westport, with its Champ-inspired logo, will get you the chance to buy an “I Saw Champ at Snowfort” t-shirt.
Ship Store & Boutique at Westport Marina carries gear for sailors and a fun array of nautical gifts.
Also located in Westport, the charming Bessboro Shop sells Champ merchandise as well as many other gift items you’ll want to take home.
Regardless of whether or not Champ is real, the excitement of thinking that it just might be out there is more than enough. The legend of Champ swimming the depths of the lake, viewing shipwrecks on the bottom, is simply too thrilling not to share. Come to the Lake Champlain Region, explore the waters, savor the cryptid atmosphere at Champ Cafe, and enjoy the mystery.
