Winter scenes in the Lake Champlain Region

Ready for winter? New York state's Lake Champlain Region is the ultimate hub for outdoor winter fun and incredible views, and will have you coming back for more, season after season. While we might not be able to take a dip in the lake anymore, the Lake Champlain Region comes fully stocked with miles of trails, incredible views, and plenty of hot cocoa! Visiting Ausable Chasm, an impressive gorge that completely transforms in winter, is a must, and all the appropriate winter gear is provided on sight!

The perfect winter getaway

For you weekenders and day trippers, the Lake Champlain Region will keep your days packed full of unique winter experiences. There’s something for everyone to enjoy when you visit. For birders, you’ll find your favorite species here! The region is well-known as a gathering place for birds in the winter because of the warmer weather compared to the mountainous regions, and open water in the lake where aquatic birds feed and rest. Try fat tire biking! Fat tires keep riders afloat on snow-covered trails, while your regular bike would sink in. Speaking of trails, Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain is perfect for an intermediate snowshoe to one of the area's taller peaks, with a gradual incline to the firetower using the Observer’s Trail. 

Active relaxation

When you're all tuckered out from winter adventuring, make your way to the lovable downtowns of the Lake Champlain Region. Stop by Ticonderoga, Elizabethtown, Essex, and more for comfort food, hot cocoa, and a warm fire. The towns of the Lake Champlain Region know just what everyone needs after a day in the snow, so stop by for some cozy pampering. 

Two people snowshoe on a wooden overlook of a chasm

A family dressed up in costumes for Christmas time.

Two people on fat tire bikes in the winter

A bridge in the winter

Where is the Lake Champlain Region?
Along the shores of expansive Lake Champlain, we're just a few hours from major cities in the Northeast, including Albany, Boston, Montreal, and New York. Legendary lakes, forts, museums, and adventure are within easy reach!
View Region Map

Champ’s Frequently Asked Questions

What is winter like along Lake Champlain in the Adirondacks?

The Lake Champlain Region generally experiences a milder winter climate than much of the surrounding Adirondacks. The lake helps moderate temperatures along the shoreline, resulting in fewer extreme cold snaps and less consistent snowfall. While winter weather is still part of the season, conditions here tend to be less intense.

In contrast, higher-elevation areas in the Adirondacks, including the High Peaks Region, typically see colder temperatures, more frequent freezing conditions, and significantly greater snowfall.

Does Lake Champlain freeze in the winter?

Lake Champlain does freeze in winter, but a full lake-wide freeze has become increasingly rare and now tends to happen later in the season than it once did. Because the lake is so large and deep, ice conditions can vary widely. Some areas remain open water all winter, while bays, inland seas, and sheltered coves regularly form solid ice.

Even in years without a complete freeze, there are still reliable spots for winter activities like ice fishing, especially in protected areas where colder temperatures allow ice to form and hold. As always, conditions change throughout the season, so it is important to check local reports and practice safe ice travel before heading out.

Can I visit Ausable Chasm in the winter?

Yes! Ausable Chasm is open year round. Bring your snowshoes and experience the Chasm from a different season.

Where are the best places for winter birding?

Crown Point State Historic Site, Ausable Marsh, and Wickham Marsh are your go-to winter birding locations.

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