Vermont’s best kayaking is spread across three main areas: the Champlain Valley for vast open-water paddling, the Northeast Kingdom for lakes and wilderness escapes, and Central Vermont for calm reservoirs and family-friendly waters. Together, they create a mix of experiences perfect for September adventurers.
Here are the top 5 kayaking spots in Vermont that promise the best experience this September.
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Lake Champlain – Vermont’s Crown Jewel
When it comes to kayaking in Vermont, Lake Champlain is the ultimate pick. Stretching over 120 miles, this massive lake feels almost ocean-like but with the added bonus of mountain views.
You can explore quiet coves, sandy beaches, and even small islands. Some kayakers love heading toward Burton Island or Knight Island, both part of Vermont’s state park system, where you can stop for a picnic or even camp overnight.
Difficulty Level: Moderate—large open waters can get choppy, best for intermediate or experienced kayakers.
Accessibility: Multiple public launches in Burlington, North Hero, and South Hero. Kayak rentals available in Burlington. Parking is widely available at marinas and state park areas.
Nearby Attractions: After kayaking, explore Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace, enjoy waterfront dining, or take a sunset cruise on the lake.
Pro Tip: Launch from North Hero or Burlington for the best mix of open-water paddling and sheltered areas perfect for beginners.
Waterbury Reservoir – Calm & Scenic
If Lake Champlain feels too big, Waterbury Reservoir is the cozy alternative.
Tucked away in central Vermont, this 850-acre body of water offers calm conditions and a peaceful backdrop of forested hills.
September mornings are especially beautiful when mist rises off the water and the surrounding trees slowly turn shades of orange.
The reservoir is also less crowded than Champlain, which means you can paddle in near silence.
Difficulty Level: Easy—calm waters ideal for beginners and families.
Accessibility: Public boat launches available; parking areas near Waterbury Center State Park. Rentals available seasonally at the park.
Nearby Attractions: Stowe is just a short drive away, perfect for grabbing local food, hiking Mount Mansfield, or visiting Ben & Jerry’s Factory.
Green River Reservoir – A True Wilderness Escape
For those craving solitude, Green River Reservoir is the real deal.
With over 19 miles of shoreline and strict no-motor rules, this place is as close as you get to pure wilderness paddling in Vermont. September makes it even more silent as the crowds thin out.
Many kayakers love it for overnight trips—paddle during the day, camp along the shore, and wake up to misty mornings that feel like something out of a postcard.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate—calm waters but longer paddles may challenge beginners.
Accessibility: Boat launches available inside Green River Reservoir State Park. Parking is limited—arrive early. Rentals are not typically offered, so bring your own gear.
Nearby Attractions: Explore nearby Hardwick’s local food scene or take a short drive to Hill Farmstead Brewery, one of Vermont’s most famous craft breweries.
Pro Tip: Bring binoculars. The fall bird migration often brings a variety of species passing through this area.
Lake Willoughby – The Dramatic Beauty
If Vermont has a natural wonder that feels like a movie set, Lake Willoughby is it. Known as Vermont’s “fjord,” its deep blue waters are framed by steep cliffs of Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor.
The lake is also famous for its incredible water clarity, which stays impressive even in early fall. Paddling close to shore, you can often see deep into the lake’s underwater world.
Difficulty Level: Moderate—open waters can be windy, requiring some skill.
Accessibility: Public beach and boat launches on both the north and south ends. Parking is available nearby. Kayak rentals are offered seasonally in Westmore.
Nearby Attractions: Hike Mount Pisgah for panoramic lake views, or visit nearby Crystal Lake State Park.
Connecticut River – A Classic Paddle
Running along Vermont’s eastern border, the Connecticut River offers a different kind of kayaking—long stretches where you can paddle for hours or even days.
In September, the riverbanks turn into a corridor of gold and orange, making it a dreamy backdrop for extended kayaking trips.
Unlike the lakes, the river has sections that feel adventurous with light currents, while others are calm enough for beginners.
Many paddlers love starting around Windsor or Brattleboro and enjoying day-long trips through winding bends and open stretches.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate—mostly calm waters, with some stretches requiring attention.
Accessibility: Multiple public access points along Vermont’s border towns. Parking varies depending on the launch site. Rentals available in larger towns like Brattleboro.
Nearby Attractions: Explore Brattleboro’s artsy downtown, Windsor’s historic sites, or stop at local cider mills that open in September.
Pro Tip: If you want a quieter experience, aim for weekday paddling in September when the river is less busy.
Conclusion
September in Vermont is kayaking at its finest. From the massive waters of Lake Champlain to the wilderness of Green River Reservoir, every spot on this list offers something unique.
If you’re planning just one kayaking trip this fall, make it in Vermont. Chances are, you’ll want to come back again and again.
Read More: 5 Best Camping Spots in Vermont for September
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