12 Lake Champlain moments to check off in 2026
A new year is the perfect excuse for fresh adventures, unforgettable views, and a few “did we really just do that?” moments. From thundering spring waterfalls to glowing summer sunsets on the lake, this is your 2026 bucket list for the Lake Champlain Region, one season at a time.
1. Chase spring waterfalls
As the snow melts and the trails come back to life, spring is prime time for waterfall chasing in the Lake Champlain Region. Feel the power of rushing water at Ausable Chasm, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” where spring melt flows through dramatic stone walls. Wander mossy trails to Split Rock Falls, where cascades spill into pools along the Boquet River, or take an easy stroll to the picture-perfect Wadhams Falls. With forests turning bright green and waterfalls at their most dramatic, it’s the perfect way to kick off the season.
2. Walk through revolutionary history
Step back in time and experience the stories that shaped a nation during America 250 in 2026. The Lake Champlain Region is alive with history, from storied battlefields to charming historic towns where reenactments and living history bring the past to life.
Follow themed trails like the Revolutionary Quest, join a guided tour, or explore museums and historic sites at your own pace. Each stop offers a chance to connect with the people, events, and ideas that sparked a revolution. This adventure promises inspiration for history buffs and curious visitors alike.
3. Dine lakeside at sunset
Savor the magic of a Lake Champlain sunset with a meal lakeside, where golden light kisses the water and sailboats drift past marinas. Dockside tables and waterfront patios turn every bite into a moment to remember, letting you enjoy fresh local fare while soaking in the view. It’s the perfect combination of flavors, scenery, and photo-worthy memories that make any evening feel extraordinary.
4. Taste the region, one farm at a time
Discover the flavors of this region one farm at a time. Farmers markets offer local produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade treats, while events like the Adirondack Harvest Festival celebrate the region’s bounty in full swing. Orchards, breweries, and wineries invite visitors to sample their offerings and connect with the people who grow, craft, and celebrate the area’s rich food culture.
5. Keep an eye on the water for Champ
No visit to the Lake Champlain Region is complete without keeping an eye on the water for Champ, the lake’s legendary resident. Grab your binoculars, scan the shoreline, and enjoy the playful thrill of spotting a ripple or a mysterious fin. It’s a whimsical moment that adds a little magic and storytelling fun to your lake adventures.
6. Paddle the lake or a quiet bay
There’s no better way to experience Lake Champlain than from the water. Glide across calm bays or explore scenic inlets by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. Launch from popular spots like Noblewood Park or Cumberland Bay State Park, or Bluwagga Bay near Port Henry, or plan an adventure paddling out to a campsite on Valcour Island for an overnight stay surrounded by lake views. Every paddle offers a new perspective on the lake’s beauty and a chance to connect with nature up close.
7. Ride a bike trail with a view
Experience the area on two wheels and take in views that are just as rewarding as the ride itself. Cycle along scenic rail trails, shoreline routes, and causeways, or test your stamina on long-distance rides that stretch through the heart of the region. Mountain bike trails offer a bit more adventure, while a ride that includes the ferry to Vermont and back adds a unique twist with stunning lake vistas along the way. Every route is a chance to explore, get active, and see the region from a fresh perspective.
8. Catch live music or a summer festival
Feel the energy of the region come alive with live music and summer festivals. From waterfront concerts to town fairs, heritage events, and seasonal celebrations, there’s always a performance or gathering to enjoy. Tap your feet to local bands, savor festival flavors, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere that makes summer in the area unforgettable.
9. Take a scenic boat cruise
See the region from a whole new perspective on a scenic boat cruise. Hop aboard Sail Adirondacks for a relaxing sail across the lake, or take a ferry ride to enjoy the waters at a leisurely pace. These cruises are easy, accessible, and perfect for visitors who want incredible views without the effort, with plenty of opportunities for photo-worthy moments along the way.
10. Explore a lakeside town on foot
Take the time to explore a lakeside town on foot and discover the charm of the region’s historic streets, local shops, and cozy cafés. Stroll through Westport, Elizabethtown, Ticonderoga, Crown Point, Willsboro, Essex, Keeseville, Chesterfield, Lewis, Port Henry, and Moriah, stopping at museums, galleries, and other local attractions along the way. Slowing down lets you soak in the character of each town and uncover the stories, flavors, and sights that make every stop memorable.
11. See fall from a new angle
Experience fall in full color and see the season from a new angle. Vibrant foliage stretches across forests and hills, perfect for leaf peeping from scenic overlooks, hiking trails, scenic drives, or even from the water. Each perspective offers a fresh view of autumn’s brilliance, making it easy to capture unforgettable memories and photos along the way.
12. Experience another winter in the Lake Champlain Region
Wrap up your year of adventures by experiencing another winter in the region. Sparkling ice, frost, and quiet, snow-dusted landscapes create a scene perfect for winter. Glide along cross-country ski trails and explore seasonal attractions. Winter here offers a serene, magical way to end the year and a reminder that the region shines in every season.
Plan your 2026 bucket list
With so many adventures waiting at every turn, the Lake Champlain Region is the perfect place to make 2026 unforgettable. Plan to chase waterfalls, explore historic sites, paddle serene waters, savor local flavors, and watch the seasons change. Let this bucket list guide your journey, but follow your curiosity, discover new routes, and create your own moments along the way.
