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Water Sports

Clean Rivers, Lakes, and Streams

Recreating on the water is a fun way to spend time and cool down during the warmer months in Vermont. Vermont's lakes beckon, from Lake Champlain stretching along the western border to Lake Willoughby in the north and Spruce Lake in the southern region - and all the ponds, rivers and lakes in between. Whether you want to kayak, canoe, sail, or paddle-board, be sure to check out Vermont State Parks to find a body of water that's most appropriate for your desired activity.

Hammock by the lakeside

Parks with Boating

Vermont has plenty of lakes, ponds and other waterways that permit a visitor to enjoy by boat. Learn more about the parks that are boat-accessible, have trailer boat launches on site, and offer paddle boat rentals.

Canoeing on Kettle Pond

PADDLING

Kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding are great ways to get out and explore Vermont's many waterways. Learn more about paddling in Vermont.

A fly fisherman casts a line into stream.

Fishing

Whether you fly fish Vermont’s creeks and streams, cast from a boat on Lake Champlain, or fish from shore, the catch of the day is always fresh.

Fishing from a motorized boat on Lake Carmi.

Vermont Boating Laws

Get your license or stay up to date. This guide is a helpful resource that will teach you everything from the basics to laws that are specific to Vermont.

Two surfers walking through the water

Ride the Waves in Burlington

Families and friends gather at the Burlington Surf Club to ride the waves, go for a paddle or just enjoy the beauty of a Vermont summer.

Tubing down Vermont waters - vermont summer

Five Unique Places to Swim in Vermont

A hot Vermont summer day calls for time in a lake or swimming hole for a refreshing dip. We’ve rounded up gfive spots sure to cool you down this summer.

Clearwater Sports - kayaking on the lakes in Vermont

Go with the Flow

Clear Water Sports helps travelers find their way along the mellow Mad River in tubes and kayaks. Go for a guided tour and enjoy the flow of the river. Just remember to bring shoes.

Paddling to Burton Island

Canoeing to Burton Island

A trip to Burton Island has a different feel – the lack of cars and natural beauty set the area apart. Read about an adventure canoeing there for lunch and whet your appetite to visit this Champlain gem for yourself.

Paddling-1-James Buck

Paddling Adventures in Vermont

Paddling in Vermont is a great way to enjoy the solitude and beauty of the great outdoors. Get tips for your next paddling excursion with Vermont weekly Seven Days and two women who’ve made a lifestyle on the water.

Northern Forest Canoe Trail

Canoe Trail Connects Vermont to Canada, Neighboring States

The Northern Forest Canoe Trail, a 740-mile waterway, stretches from Old Forge, N.Y., in the Adirondacks to the St. John River in Fort Kent, Maine, and includes 145.5 miles in Vermont. Paddle the whole thing or take one of the day trips outlined here.

Vermont canoe and kayak

PADDLING THE LAMOILLE RIVER

Go along with Seven Days and Vermont Canoe and Kayak as they take Vermonters and visitors on a paddling excursion on the beautiful Lamoille River, then plan to give it a try yourself.

Fishing-3-Oliver Parini

Fly-Fishing in Vermont

First time fly-fishing? It’s good to go with a guide. Vermont weekly Seven Days takes you through a beginner’s first trip angling Vermont’s waterways, and presents tips and tricks for a successful trip.