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.

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. 

 

New construction opportunity coming to North Hero. Located on the site of the Historic North Hero House Inn and Restaurant on Lake Champlain's City Bay in the center of North Hero Village. The project consists of nine new construction luxury residential condominiums designed in a manner consistent with the architecture and character of this picturesque village. The Steamship Pier Condominium Residences will offer commanding views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains and offer shared use of a sandy beach, the 150 ft Pier and private Marina with Boat slips available on-site. Various finish options are available including appliances, flooring, paint, cabinets and countertops. Construction to be completed by Hayward Design Build.

Available Units:

Homestead Unit #3

Southwind Unit #2

Southwind Unit #3

For more information about the Steamship Pier Condominiums please contact us. 

 

Who else is dreaming of this Champlain Islands Contemporary as forever home? March's hidden home recently closed in February. It is a covert home with truly panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Green and Adirondack Mountains. Watch to see the some of the best views in the Champlain Islands! 

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to see the Hidden Home of the month!

(This home is NOT for sale) 

Looking for something to do during the colder winter months? From extreme winter sports to tranquil lower impact exercises, the Champlain Islands have an abundance of recreational activities waiting for us to try. When heading out on the ice always take precaution and check conditions before.

1. Skating on Lake Champlain

When the weather sets up just right, the ice on Lake Champlain becomes glass perfect for skating (especially on the Sandbar)! Whether you are figure skating or out playing pond hockey this serene scene takes skating to the next level.

2. Stroll the Island Line Trail
Bundle up and head to the Lake Champlain Causeway for a serene winter stroll. Walk the beautiful and historic path while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Green Mountains, and the Adirondacks. Better known as the Bike Path, you can access this trail from Colchester or South Hero.

3. Ice Fishing
Lake Champlain is home to Vermont’s premier fishing destination and has many ice fishing opportunities. The shallow waters near the Sandbar are a hotspot for northern pike. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just out fishing for fun, this family fun winter activity is enjoyed by all ages.

4. Trek out to Knight Island
Looking to get your steps in? Knight Island is just about a 40 minute walk from the North Hero Village. Carve out your own path on frozen Lake Champlain. You can walk, grab your snowshoes, or strap into cross-country skis to reach the destination!

5. Snowkite on the Sandbar 

Weather permitting, snowkiting is an epic winter sport with opportunity for major air!  Feeling extra adventurous? Try kitewinging! Kitewings are handheld wing sails used for sailing on low friction surfaces such as ice or snow. Strap on skates or skis and get ready for an epic workout. The ice and wind conditions near the Sandbar make for the perfect spot to try out this new extreme winter sport.

Looking for more fun activities in the Champlain Islands? Read more. 

Commissions for Community Annual Donation Program

This past month we donated $1000 donation to the Grand Isle Food Shelf through our Commissions for Community annual donation program. We are grateful to have such wonderful volunteer organizations that support our community and neighbors in such an impactful way. Thank you Judy Ayers and all of the Food Shelf volunteers for all you do!

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