Are you curious about Vermont’s largest lake, Lake Champlain? At Coldwell Banker Islands Realty, we breathe the Lake Champlain lifestyle and are here to share more information about the beautiful Lake Champlain region. Discover how the lake got its name, its battles, how many islands it contains, and other interesting facts.

• Lake Champlain History

Home to the oldest reef in the world, Lake Champlain is full of history. The Chazy Reef, a fossil reef in Isle La Motte, Vermont, spans over 1,567 acres and is over 480 million years old. This National Natural Landmark is viewable to the public at the Goodsell Ridge Fossil Preserve and the Fisk Quarry Reserve.

Lake Champlain was first discovered in 1609 by French explorer Samuel De Champlain, hence the name. Still, there are records of multiple names given by indigenous tribes, such as the Iroquois and Abenaki. 

The lake was a vital part of many battles and wars throughout the next couple of hundred years. During the Revolutionary War, Lake Champlain played a crucial role in shipbuilding, colony movement, and naval battles. The Battle of Lake Champlain, also known as the Battle of Plattsburgh, took place during the War of 1812 and prevented the British from invading New York. This battle was quite significant as it stopped the last invasion of the northern states by the British.

Shipwrecks dating back to the 18th century can be found in Lake Champlain. You can even go diving to see some of them through the Vermont Underwater Historic Preserves. 

• Lake Champlain Facts

Lake Champlain is about 120 miles long and 12 miles wide at its widest point. Even though the average depth is 64ft, the deepest point reaches down to 400 feet. There are 71 islands throughout Lake Champlain. These range from tiny remote islands to larger islands with towns and full-time residents. Three are state parks: Knight, Woods, and Burton Island. There are also vacation rental opportunities out on Butler Island. The three largest islands are towns that include: South Hero/Grand Isle, North Hero, and Isle La Motte. Approximately 200,000 people use Lake Champlain as their home’s water source.

• Fish and Wildlife

Over 90 species of fish live in the waters of Lake Champlain. It’s considered a frontline fishery for two species: salmonid species (lake trout and salmon) and bass. Bassmaster magazine even named Lake Champlain the fourth-best lake in the region for fishing in 2021!

There are over 318 bird species that live near or around Lake Champlain! The state's second most productive waterfowl site is located right in the marshes around The Sandbar Causeway. 

Another form of life is believed to live beneath the surface of Lake Champlain. The mythical lake monster, Champ, is a creature similar to the Loch Ness Monster that some believe is living in the depths of the waters. There are reports of Champ sightings as early as the 17th century.

• Travel

Lake Champlain plays an essential role in travel for everyone. Two ferries travel year-round between New York and Vermont, making it easy to commute for recreational or work purposes.

In 2022, Burlington welcomed back a commuter rail service between Burlington and New York City. The Burlington Union Station is located right on Main Street. The Rutland-Canadian Railroad ended its use in 1962 and was developed into a public trail for bicyclists and pedestrians. The trail runs along the shores of Lake Champlain, offering a unique recreational experience.

You can easily travel to the Lake Champlain Islands by the causeway that connects the Vermont mainland to the island of South Hero. Multiple bridges connect the different island towns and to the mainland of Swanton and New York State.

• Fun Facts

You've heard of the five Great Lakes of North America, but did you know there used to be a sixth? On March 6th, 1998, President Clinton declared Lake Champlain the sixth Great Lake. Despite the bill being signed, the title for Lake Champlain didn’t last long. Many countries ended up disagreeing with the decision and wanted the status rescinded. So, only a couple weeks later, on March 24th, 1998, President Clinton did as the public wished, and Lake Champlain was no longer a Great Lake. Even though it’s not official anymore, the “Sixth Great Lake” nickname has stuck with the lake.

Lake Champlain is full of history, life, and adventure. If you want to learn more about life on Lake Champlain, our Realtors are here to help.

Increasing your home’s curb appeal doesn’t have to be extremely costly or timely. Spending some time maintaining the exterior of your property has great benefits. It will increase your home's charm and help you keep up with general maintenance whether you're thinking of putting your home on the market or not. Check out these easy projects that will help your home achieve that sought after exterior appearance without breaking the bank!

1. Pressure Wash & Paint

Rent or borrow a pressure washer from your neighbor to clear any debris and dirt from the home's exterior. Consider also adding a fresh coat of paint to the front door or trim for a quick transformation.

 

2. Plant Colorful Flowers

Add a pop of color to your front entry to draw your eye to the front entrance. Add a flowerpot to the front steps or plant some annuals in the front garden to complement your home's style.

3. Refresh Your Old Hardware 
This is an affordable yet impactful way to take your home’s exterior appeal to the next level. Replace the door knob and/or purchase new house numbers.

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Office News

New Agent Welcome
Please join us in welcoming Jackson Valley as a licensed sales associate. Jackson looks forward to helping guide folks through the biggest decision of their life, and getting to know more about them through the process. Learn more about Jackson.

Tim Trapani Retired!
A big congratulations to Tim Trapani on his retirement! Tim was a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Islands Realty for the last 12 years and has helped countless families with their real estate needs. Enjoy retirement Tim!

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August’s hidden home is a covert cedar shake Island Cape with expansive views over Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains. It is located on 1.9 acres with 100 ft of Inland Sea frontage. 

 

 

Rising inflation, soaring home prices, and increased mortgage interest rates have combined to cause a slowdown in the U.S. housing market. To help quell inflation, which reached 8.6% as of last measure in May, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates by three quarters of a percentage point in June, the largest interest rate hike since 1994. Higher prices, coupled with 30-year fixed mortgage rates approaching 6%, have exacerbated affordability challenges and rapidly cooled demand, with home sales and mortgage applications falling sharply from a year ago.

New Listings decreased 11.8 percent for single-family homes and 20.4 percent for townhouse-condo properties. Pending Sales decreased 19.6 percent for single-family homes and 9.0 percent for townhouse-condo properties. Inventory decreased 22.3 percent for single-family homes and 38.5 percent for townhouse-condo properties.

The Median Sales Price was up 19.5 percent to $460,000 for single-family homes and 23.3 percent to $357,555 for townhouse-condo properties. Days on Market decreased 47.8 percent for single-family homes and 41.4 percent for townhouse-condo properties. Months Supply of Inventory decreased 12.5 percent for single-family homes and 33.3 percent for townhouse-condo properties.

With monthly mortgage payments up more than 50% compared to this time last year, the rising costs of homeownership have sidelined many prospective buyers. Nationally, the median sales price of existing homes recently exceeded $400,000 for the first time ever, a 15% increase from the same period a year ago, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. As existing home sales continue to soften nationwide, housing supply is slowly improving, with inventory up for the second straight month. In time, price growth is expected to moderate as supply grows; for now, however, inventory remains low, and buyers are feeling the squeeze of higher prices all around.

Do you have questions about the current market? We're here to help. Contact us today.

Looking for the best places to eat in the Lake Champlain Islands? You’ve come to the right place! This local Vermont guide will direct you to the best eats in the area. 

1. Wally’s Place Bagel and Deli 

Wally's Place has delicious bagels, homemade bread, sandwiches, and sweet treats! Wally's has been South Hero's local bagel shop since 2008 and is conveniently located at Community Lane in South Hero. 

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2. Seb’s Snack Bar

Locally owned and operated this iconic South Hero staple is open daily from 11am to 6pm during the months of May through October. Indulge in fried food in the heart of the South Hero village and don’t forget to grab a creemee post lunch. 

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3. Hero’s Welcome General Store

Head to Hero’s Welcome for the best sandwiches in the Champlain Islands! Enjoy your lunch outside while taking in the views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains in the distance. This spot is located right in the North Hero Village on City Bay. 

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4. Steamship Pier Bar and Barbecue

Sit down for lunch on the shores of Lake Champlain at the pier bar located at the North hero Inn and Restaurant. Their lobster roll and BBQ options are some of the best in town. 

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5. Bravo Zulu Lakeside Bar

Bravo Zulu is the most recent addition to the Lake Champlain Islands. This eatery located at Shore Acres Inn and Restaurant. From sandwiches, salads, to larger plates their large menu will be sure to have something for everyone.  

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6. The Hive Cafe

Check out the Hive Cafe for salads, grilled sandwiches, burgers and more! It is located at Allenholm on South Street and is open from 11am-6pm during the summer months. Just note the cafe is closed on Wednesdays!

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7. Keeler’s Bay Variety 

Keeler’s Bay Variety Store and Liquor Store in South Hero has great to-go options if you’re in a hurry. They also have a great deli if you’re looking for a hearty sandwich.

8. Mckees Island Pub & Pizza 

Craving a slice? Mckees in South Hero has you covered. In addition to great pizza, they have an extensive menu with many different Italian options.

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Local eat and drink options are plentiful in the Lake Champlain Islands! Looking to plan your next Island adventure? Read our summer day trip guide.