Despite being a land-locked state, Vermont has a surprising number of beautiful sandy beaches at its over 800 lakes. Many are located along the edges of the state’s largest body of water – Lake Champlain – while others are found within the state parks offering hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities.
Best Beaches to Visit in Vermont This Fall
Elmore State Park
With a large sandy beach and a designated spot for swimming, families love Elmore State Park. Lake Elmore (219 acres) is just 20 minutes from Stowe with pedal boats, kayaks, and canoes available for rent at the beach house.
More than just a beach destination, this 700-acre state park features two hiking trails leading to Elmore Mountain’s summit. First, hike the Fire Tower Trail (1.75 miles) and then climb to the top of the fire tower for 360-degree views of the Green Mountains of Vermont and the Presidential mountain range of New Hampshire.
Red Rocks Park
Located approximately three miles from downtown Burlington on Lake Champlain, Red Rocks Park is open to the public year-round. Once a popular destination for cliff jumpers, the beach is now the main attraction. The park has banned cliff jumping, and there’s a $600 fine if you’re caught.
The 700ft sandy beachfront and its calm waters make it perfect for swimming. There are resting and changing facilities available. For those looking for something more active, there’s a shady, woody 2.5-mile trail loop that offers excellent views of the lake. During the summer months, the gate to the park closes at 7pm. If you plan to stay later, park your vehicle outside the entrance to avoid getting locked in.
Waterbury Center State Park
Located a quarter-mile off of VT Route 100, the “Reservoir,” as locals know it, is the ninth-largest body of water in Vermont. The Waterbury Reservoir is an excellent place to swim, paddleboard, canoe, and kayak in calm shallow waters.
Umiak Outdoor Outfitters has an outpost on-site and offers rental equipment. Additionally, there’s a boat launch, and motorboats are allowed. Facilities include restrooms and changing areas, along with 27 remote campsites along the shoreline that are only accessible by boat. Reservations are required and need to be made in advance with Vermont State Parks.
Lake Willoughby
Deep in the heart of the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, close to the Canadian border, is Lake Willoughby – the second-deepest lake in the state (320ft). Resembling a Norwegian fjord, Lake Willoughby was carved by glacial rivers of ice over 12,000 years ago. The cliffs of Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor soar above the lake on either side.
At almost five miles long, there are two main natural beaches along the shoreline. The quarter-mile beach on the northern end is perfect for swimming. The pristine waters resemble the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean, though the temperatures are a bit cooler. The shallow entry makes it an excellent spot to launch a kayak or paddleboard.
The beach to the south can be less busy, it’s clothing optional and may not be ideal for families looking to splash around. There are several cabin and cottage rentals available along the eastern side of the lake.
Lake Dunmore
Located within Branbury State Park, Lake Dunmore features 1000ft of sandy beach. The ample space to spread out and shallow entry point makes it a favorite for families. The large grassy area is an excellent spot to set up a blanket and chairs for picnicking. Additionally, the conveniently located snack shack, restrooms, and changing rooms enhance the experience.
If you are eager to enjoy the lake, kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, and a rowboat are available for rent at the park.
