10 Best Canoeing Spots in Vermont for September

Vermont offers some of the most picturesque paddling experiences in the country. Here’s your guide to the best of the best canoeing spots in Vermont for September.

Top Canoeing Spots in Vermont

Lake Champlain

Lake Champlain is Vermont’s crown jewel of canoeing. Stretching over 120 miles, it offers endless opportunities to explore secluded bays and hidden inlets.

Paddle along the eastern shore and take in the sight of charming small towns or venture toward the Adirondacks for a more remote experience.

Accessibility & Logistics: Multiple public access points along the lake with parking and boat launches. Canoe rentals are available in several towns.

Fees & Permits: No special permits required, standard parking fees may apply at some public launches.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate, calm waters allow easy navigation.

Nearby Activities: Explore nearby towns like Burlington, visit local breweries, or hike along waterfront trails.

Green River Reservoir State Park

September brings fewer visitors, making it ideal for spotting deer, turtles, and a variety of waterfowl. A small picnic on the shore with this peaceful backdrop is a must.

Accessibility & Logistics: State park with parking and clearly marked canoe launches.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Beginner-friendly, flat water suitable for families.

Nearby Activities: Hiking trails within the park, picnic areas, and wildlife watching.

Lake Willoughby

Lake Willoughby is a striking canoeing destination with its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

Often compared to a Norwegian fjord, the lake is framed by Mount Hor and Mount Pisgah, making every paddle a scenic adventure.

Canoe the full length of the lake or just explore the smaller coves for a more relaxed experience.

Accessibility & Logistics: Public access points available; small parking lot near the main beach.

Fees & Permits: No special permits; park parking fees may apply.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Intermediate due to length of the lake and occasional winds.

Nearby Activities: Hiking the Mount Pisgah trail or enjoying local lodges and restaurants.

Lake Memphremagog

Bordering Canada, Lake Memphremagog is a unique paddling destination. Its mix of shallow coves and deeper channels offers variety for all skill levels.

Accessibility & Logistics: Public launch sites on the U.S. side, ample parking.

Fees & Permits: No permits needed for recreational paddling.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate, suitable for long-distance paddles.

Nearby Activities: Fishing, lakeside dining, and exploring nearby Newport town.

Waterbury Reservoir

Waterbury Reservoir offers calm waters and stunning fall scenery, making it a favorite for early autumn paddlers.

Its wide expanse provides plenty of space to practice canoeing skills or simply drift and enjoy the view. Nearby trails allow for a quick hike if you want a change of scenery.

Accessibility & Logistics: Public access points with parking and launch areas.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate, very calm waters.

Nearby Activities: Short hiking trails, wildlife watching, and picnic areas.

Lake Morey

Lake Morey is perfect for beginners and families. Its gentle waters, combined with scenic surroundings, make it an easy, relaxing paddle.

Canoe rentals are available along the shore, and after a day on the water, you can explore the charming nearby towns or take a stroll along the lakeside paths.

Accessibility & Logistics: Canoe rental facilities available; multiple public launch points.

Fees & Permits: Some launch points may charge parking fees.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Beginner-friendly, calm water.

Nearby Activities: Lakeside walking paths, small-town exploration, local dining.

Connecticut River (Wilgus State Park to Sumner Falls)

For more advanced paddlers, the Connecticut River stretch between Wilgus State Park and Sumner Falls is ideal.

It combines calm sections with small rapids, offering just the right amount of thrill. Along the way, the riverbanks reveal hidden beaches and quiet forests, perfect for a mid-paddle break.

Accessibility & Logistics: Public launch points at Wilgus State Park; parking available.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced due to rapids.

Nearby Activities: Hiking nearby trails, fishing spots, and forested picnic areas.

Lake St. Catherine

Lake St. Catherine is a lesser-known gem, offering peaceful paddling through its calm waters and secluded coves.

Accessibility & Logistics: Public access with parking.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Beginner-friendly, flat water.

Nearby Activities: Wildlife observation, nearby hiking trails, and lakeside picnic areas.

Lake Shaftsbury State Park

Lake Shaftsbury State Park is popular for longer paddling trips. The lake’s shoreline features small beaches and forested areas, making it perfect for a day of exploration.

Accessibility & Logistics: State park with boat launches and parking.

Fees & Permits: Park entrance fee applies.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate.

Nearby Activities: Short hikes, nature photography, swimming, and picnicking.

Mountain Top Resort

Mountain Top Resort offers a more guided canoeing experience. Paddlers can rent equipment on-site and take part in organized tours around the resort’s private lakes and waterways.

The setting is perfect for families or first-time paddlers who want a mix of adventure and convenience.

Accessibility & Logistics: Launch and rentals available on-site.

Difficulty & Skill Level: Beginner-friendly with guided support.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner seeking calm waters, Vermont’s best canoeing spots promise unforgettable memories amidst the vibrant colors of early fall.

Read More: 10 Best Backpacking Destinations in Vermont in September