As Arctic air descends on northern Vermont, folks who enjoy the outdoors gear up for another thrilling season on frozen Lake Champlain.  The first ones out there are the ice fishermen, sitting on buckets with nothing but a tip-up, or with shanties equipped with heat, tv and a wet bar, or even an entire RV. 

If fishing isn’t your thing, the good folks of North Hero, Vermont, have dreamed up a dozen ways to enjoy playing outside on the ice!

Great Ice in Grand Isle celebrates activities for young and old in City Bay in North Hero.  This lovely old village comes alive when Hero’s Welcome General Store proprietor Bob Camp plows a skating rink out in front.  He’s got skates, skis and Nordic skates to rent, or BYO. 

It all starts on Saturday, February 6th, with a presentation by the Atii Sled Dogs, followed by a bonfire out on the ice and an outdoor Chili Cook-Off, with beverages produced by North Hero House Inn.  On Sunday, February 7th, renowned outdoor enthusiast Jamie Hess brings a vanload of Nordic skates for people to try out. 

The following weekend enter your own homemade vehicle in the F-F-Frozen Chosen Regatta on Saturday, Feb. 13th.  All entrants must be based on the bicycle, and creativity is welcome! A Valentine’s Day Dinner Dance follows in the evening at North Hero House.  On Sunday enter the Ice Golf Tournament! 

Saturday, February 20th, starts with a Flapjack Breakfast at the Inn, followed by the Over and Back Trek over the ice to Knight Island.  At the same time, the Kids Fishing Derby takes over for kids 14 and under.  And if the weather cooperates, a ski-equipped plane ride is available on the ice, courtesy of Heros Aviation.

Sunday, February 21st, wraps up the series.  In the afternoon, take the family for a sleigh ride on the ice, drawn by a team of Karen Munson’s horses.