The East Coast's Most Incredible Lake Getaway Is An Adirondack Haven Full Of Recreation, Charm, And History

Stretching over 120 miles long between Vermont and New York is Lake Champlain, one of the country's premier East Coast lakes for vacation. A picturesque Adirondack haven offering recreational adventure, small-town charm, and centuries of history, this freshwater gem sits just east of the Adirondack High Peaks and west of the Green Mountains. The region's serenity and panoramic landscapes make it feel worlds away from the bustle and noise of Vermont and New York cities like Burlington, Winooski, and Plattsburgh, all of which sit about two hours away. 

Still, it's surprisingly accessible, with two airports offering convenient access for out-of-towners. Plattsburgh International Airport, located roughly 10 miles from Lake Champlain, offers flights via Contour Airlines, Breeze Airways, and Allegiant Air.  Burlington International Airport, located 46.3 miles away, is the better-connected option, offering daily non-stop flights to a wider range of principal U.S. cities through American, Delta, United, and other major airlines. 

Whether you're coming for a summer weekend or a quiet winter retreat, Lake Champlain makes an ideal year-round escape. With lakeside forests and mountain peaks reflected in the clear water, plus can't-miss museums and historic sites just steps away, Lake Champlain invites travelers of all interests to immerse themselves in its jaw-dropping wonders. Nature lovers, outdoorsy types with a penchant for the active lifestyle, and history buffs alike will find themselves captivated by all this oasis of calm and enrichment has to offer. And if you want to take in the shores of Lake Champlain by rail, Amtrak's Adirondack train is among the most breathtaking winter train rides across America.

Lake Champlain lives up to its reputation as an outdoor playground for all seasons. From fishing and boating on its nearly 600 miles of shoreline — including popular locales like 253-acre Burton Island State Park and Sand Bar State Park — to swimming and paddling as you watch bald eagles fly overhead, water enthusiasts have more than enough to keep them busy here. If you'd rather stay dry, catch some rays on Sand Bar State Park's 2,000-foot sand beach or at Cumberland Bay State Park. For overnight adventurers, waterfront campgrounds such as Button Bay State Park offer peaceful nights under starry skies.

The local Champlain Area Trails (CATS) offer more than 200 miles of accessible hiking paths. Classic peaks like Belfry Mountain deliver magnificent summit panoramas of the lake against a rugged mountain backdrop. Cyclists appreciate the picture-perfect Island Line Trail, which includes a unique causeway across the lake with panoramic water views. If you're looking for an Adirondack trail that's quick and easy, Coot Hill Trail is a mild hike with some of the most awe-inspiring mountain views. Anglers will delight in catching lake trout, bass, and more, as Lake Champlain is among the best bass-fishing lakes in the nation. How does a little birdwatching sound? Stroll the Lake Champlain Birding Trail, which connects 88 shore and wetland sites perfect for wildlife encounters. If you're yearning for underwater exploration, don't miss the thrill of diving historic shipwrecks through the Champlain Underwater Historic Preserves (annual registration required).

Come summer evenings, dinner cruises depart from towns like Burlington or Port Kent, pairing fantastic sunsets with fresh-caught fare. When the ice sets in, the lake transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating, ice fishing, and peaceful snowshoeing across frozen expanses. One thing is for sure in Lake Champlain: Your senses are in for a real treat!

Lake Champlain's allure isn't solely natural — it's steeped in four centuries of human history. The lake is named after Samuel de Champlain, who, in 1609, claimed to have spotted a scaly creature five feet long in its waters. Today, this mysterious lake monster, affectionately known as "Champ," is embedded into local folklore, inspiring everything from legends to the mascot of a local sports team. 

The lake's major role in the American Revolution is exemplified by sites like Fort Ticonderoga, one of America's best-preserved forts, and a premier historic area with breathtaking Adirondack views. General John Burgoyne, in his quest to capture Albany, led his British army along Lake Champlain and snagged Fort Ticonderoga from the Continental Army, but eventually surrendered nonetheless. At Crown Point, you can experience living history through cannon demonstrations, reenactments, and authentic artifacts that deepen your understanding of the French and Indian and Revolutionary wars. Be sure to check out the preserved ruins of Fort St. Frederic, which the French built to safeguard the lake and protect the region against British colonization. 

Wander through heritage trails and hamlets like Port Henry and Essex to see preserved 19th-century architecture, take part in artisan workshops, and explore cultural museums. The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum in Vermont ferries guests through naval history with exhibits on wooden shipbuilding, shipwrecks, and demonstrations aboard historic vessels. The region's small towns — from Grand Isle and Shelburne to Vergennes — suffuse charm through art galleries, cultural institutions like the Shelburne Museum, and century-old inns offering a peek into local life. Lake Champlain is a beautiful mix of history and natural wonderment, with something new to explore almost everywhere you look.