Where to Paddle Board in Vermont: Best Lakes, Rivers & Trails
From Lake Champlain’s big-water views to the quiet Green River Reservoir and the Lamoille River Paddlers’ Trail, Vermont is packed with scenic SUP launches.
Vermont delivers dreamy SUP days—from mountain-ringed lakes to mellow rivers and island paddles.
Table of contents
Introduction
Vermont may be small, but it paddles big. You’ve got wide-open Lake Champlain, glassy reservoirs tucked into the Green Mountains, and mellow rivers that wind past farms, forests, and tiny towns. In thinking about where to paddle board in Vermont, we considered what makes each spot special and what to expect on the water.
Best Lakes to Paddle Board in Vermont
Lake Champlain
A classic for a reason: huge views, endless shoreline, and plenty of launch options. In Burlington, Oakledge Park and North Beach are popular starting points. For quieter paddles, head for island launches like Knight Point State Park (North Hero) or explore South Hero for calm bays and Adirondack views.
Photo Credit: Paddlesurf Champlain
Lake Willoughby
Often called the “Lucerne of America,” this is your jaw-drop lake. Paddle between Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor with steep cliffs on both sides and super-clear water below. Best on calm mornings before wind builds.
Lake Dunmore
A peaceful Green Mountain lake near Middlebury with coves and great mountain backdrops. Branbury State Park is the easiest launch, and it’s also a solid “SUP + swim” day.
Lake Bomoseen
Vermont’s largest lake fully inside the state. Launch from Lake Bomoseen State Park, then paddle shoreline bays and pop over toward Crystal Beach for a break.
Lake Elmore
A small, family-friendly spot with easy access via Elmore State Park. Great for mellow paddles, beginners, and anyone who wants a scenic “quick session” lake.
Waterbury Reservoir
A calm, forest-lined reservoir that feels like a secret. Launch near Waterbury Center State Park and cruise along wooded coves. It’s a strong pick for beginners, sunrise paddles, and wildlife watching.
Green River Reservoir
One of Vermont’s best “wild-feeling” paddles: remote, undeveloped shoreline, and a quiet, backcountry vibe. Bring what you need—this is a more self-supported day.
Rivers & Trails Worth Paddling
Connecticut River
A classic border-river paddle with gentle current and lots of birdlife. Launches like Wilder Dam and Kilowatt South work well for downstream cruises (plan a shuttle or out-and-back).
Moore Reservoir
A broad, calm-feeling reservoir section of the Connecticut River (VT/NH). Big enough to explore for hours, with peaceful scenery and plenty of room to spread out.
Clyde River
A Northeast Kingdom favorite with calm water and a “wild wetlands” feel. Expect quiet stretches, greenery, and a good chance of spotting birds.
Lamoille River Paddlers’ Trail
An 80+ mile paddling trail with sections for different skill levels—some mellow, some more adventurous depending on water levels. Great if you want to string together multiple trips through classic Vermont scenery.
Island & Coastal-Style Paddles
Isle La Motte
A unique Lake Champlain island paddle with limestone features and quiet shoreline. Launch from public access points like St. Anne’s Shrine area and explore bays and beachy edges.
South Hero
An easygoing island base for scenic Lake Champlain paddles. Calm bays, pretty shorelines, and a relaxed vibe—ideal for beginners who want “big lake” views without big exposure.
Photo Credit: Umiak Outfitters
Safety notes for Vermont paddling
Lake Champlain & big reservoirs can get windy fast—go early and stay close to shore if you’re newer.
Rivers may have current, strainers, and changing levels—choose sections that match your experience.
Always wear a PFD, use a leash, and watch for sudden weather shifts.
Final Thoughts on Where to Paddle Board in Vermont
If you want the iconic Vermont SUP day, start with Lake Champlain for big views and easy access. For a “how is this real?” paddle, hit Lake Willoughby early. And if you want quiet-water magic away from crowds, Waterbury Reservoir and Green River Reservoir deliver that calm, wooded, Vermont vibe every time.
Ken Driscoll
Former whitewater kayaker and kayak designer. Founder of Glide.
FAQs
What’s the best beginner-friendly place to paddle board in Vermont?
Waterbury Reservoir, Lake Elmore, and Lake Dunmore are great beginner picks thanks to calmer water and straightforward launch areas.
Where can I find the most scenic paddle boarding in Vermont?
For dramatic scenery, Lake Willoughby is hard to beat. For broad mountain-and-lake views, Lake Champlain delivers.
Are Vermont rivers safe for SUP?
Many are, but it depends on section and water level. Stick to gentler stretches (like calmer parts of the Connecticut River) unless you have river experience and the right safety gear.
Can I do a longer “route-style” SUP trip in Vermont?
Yes—check out the Lamoille River Paddlers’ Trail for multi-access, multi-trip options across a long stretch of Vermont.
