The Lake Champlain Islands have been producing apples for generations. Fall apple picking is a must-try activity when visiting or living in Vermont. These popular Grand Isle County apple orchards have been family owned for generations. Learn more about them below! 

Allenholm Farm 

Allenholm Farm is located on South Street in South Hero, Vermont. Allenholm Farm has been around since 1870; the Allen family has run the farm for seven generations. According to the South Hero Land Trust, it is the oldest commercial apple orchard still operating in Vermont. They offer pick-your-own apples, desserts such as Papa Ray’s Pies, and the best maple creemees. 

Hackett's Orchard 

Family-owned since 1967, the 50-acre farm and market offer apples, fresh cider doughnuts, apple cider, cider slush, and even apple crisp! Hackett's Orchard has a total of 47 different varieties of apples. In September, they offer pick-your-own apples. Head to South Street to get your Vermont apples, pumpkins, and sweet treats.

Hall’s Orchard

Hall’s Orchard is a family-owned apple orchard located in Isle La Motte. The property in Isle La Motte has been in the Hall family since the late 1700s and the orchard has been family owned since 1828. The farmhouse is a historic structure made with stone quarried on the island and shows the famous ancient coral reef fossils. 

Owner-operator Allen Hall grows and harvests apples and pears on Main Street in the town of Isle La Motte, Vermont. The orchard has pick your own and fresh cider in season as well as pears, maple syrup, pumpkins, and honey!

The beautiful landscape, close-knit community, history, and countless places to explore are why so many are grateful to call the Champlain Islands home.

Thinking of making a move? Learn more about Life In The Champlain Islands or to begin your property search browse available homes in the Champlain Islands.

 

1. Lake Champlain is 120 Miles in Length

Lake Champlain is about 120 miles long and 12 miles in width at its widest point. It reaches Vermont, New York, and Canada and even gets all the way down to 400ft at its deepest point.

2. Lake Champlain was once the Sixth Great Lake

President Clinton declared Lake Champlain the sixth Great Lake on March 6th, 1998. Most of the country disagreed with the decision and convinced Clinton to rescind the title only a couple of weeks later, on March 24th, 1998.

3. There are 71 Islands throughout Lake Champlain

These range from tiny remote islands to larger islands with towns. The three largest islands are towns that include: South Hero/Grand Isle, North Hero, and Isle La Motte.

4. Lake Champlain is Home to the Oldest Reef in the world.

The Chazy Reef is a fossil reef in Isle La Motte, Vermont, that spans over 1,567 acres and is over 480 million years old. As a National Natural Landmark, the reef is viewable to the public at the Goodsell Ridge Fossil Preserve and the Fisk Quarry Reserve.

5. Lake Champlain Holds over 90 species of fish. 

Over 90 species of fish live in the waters of Lake Champlain. It’s considered a frontline fishery for two species in particular: 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!

6. It was the Location of the Battle of Plattsburgh.

The lake was a vital part in many battles and wars. The Battle of Plattsburgh, also known as the Battle of Lake Champlain, took place during the War of 1812 and prevented the British from invading New York.

7. Lake Champlain has a 14-Mile Long Recreational Trail

The Island Line Trail takes you from Burlington, Vermont to the Lake Champlain Islands. Historically, the trail was not meant for recreational use. It was built in 1899 by the Rutland-Canadian Railroad for coastal market connections. Eventually, in the 1980s, the railroad was converted into a recreational path.

If you found these facts interesting, learn more about Lake Champlain here!

 

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.

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. 

 

Make the most of the Summer months by exploring all that the Lake Champlain Islands have to offer. We've created a guide for the top must-try activities in each Champlain Island town to add to your summer bucket list.

1. Rent a Boat in South Hero

What better way to explore the Lake Champlain Islands than on a boat? Apple Island Marina is conveniently located right over the Sandbar Causeway. They offer full and half-day boat rentals available throughout the summer months. 

2. Go Camping in Grand Isle

Grand Isle State Park is Vermont's most visited state park; it has great camping and even nature trails. The extensive shoreline is set up nicely for both fishing and swimming. Make sure to reserve your campsite before you plan your getaway.

3. Paddle to Knight Island in North Hero

Knight Island State Park is an island located around two miles from the North Hero Village on Lake Champlain's Inland Sea. Hero’s Welcome General Store has kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards available to rent for the day. On a calm day, launch from City Bay and head out to explore the unique Vermont State Park.

4. Bike Through History in Isle La Motte

Isle La Motte’s flat terrain, scenic views, and roads that run along the Lake make for a very relaxing bike ride. We recommend taking a break to explore the oldest fossil reef in the world, Chazy Fossil Reef or stopping by the town beach at Saint Anne’s Shrine for a picnic.

5. Golf in Alburgh 

Alburgh Golf Links is a sprawling 18-hole links style golf course that is open to the public. The course features incredible vistas of Lake Champlain and both the Adirondack and Green Mountains. After playing, drop by the clubhouse-taproom for some locally sourced eats and delicious brews by Kraemer & Kin. 

The Champlain Islands incomparable state parks, close knit community, thriving local businesses and countless outdoor activities make it a wonderful place to enjoy year-round or seasonally.

Learn more about Life in the Lake Champlain Islands.