Lake Willoughby
Into the Deep
Lake Willoughby
Vermont’s deepest lake, Lake Willoughby’s famous skyline is scored by the fjord-like peaks of mounts Pisgah and Hor. This five-mile-long lake was carved out by glaciers more than 12,000 years ago, giving it its dramatic appearance. At its deepest, Lake Willoughby is 328 feet deep. The views from the two mountains that make up its backdrop make for great hiking, and nearby beaches and boat launches offer plenty of chances to swim, paddle, and boat. Lake Willoughby is just a half hour from the Canadian border and also enjoys proximity to Newport, St. Johnsbury, and the Vermont capital, Montpelier.
Things To Do at the Lake
Lake Willoughby’s scenic beauty means the area lends itself to outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, paddling, and swimming, as well as touring and simply relaxing on the sandy beach to take in the views.
Hiking
Mounts Pisgah and Hor offer scenic views of Lake Willoughby from the summit and from several stopping points along the way.
Swimming
Lake Willoughby’s depth means it can be cold, making it a refreshing place to take a dip during summer’s heat.
Paddling
Willoughby’s five-mile length means there’s lots to explore in a canoe or kayak. Boat launches make it easy to get out there.
Fishing
Lake trout and salmon can grow very large in Lake Willoughby’s deep, cold water. Anglers can fish from the shore or a boat, or from ice shanties during the winter.
Beaches
Lake Willoughby has a free public beach on the north end for sunbathing and swimming. The south end is home to a nude beach off to the side.
Camping
There are a few options for private campgrounds at Lake Willoughby, including Will-o-Wood and White Caps. Some have cabins available to rent, too.
Things To Do Nearby
Near the heart of Vermont’s most rural region, the Northeast Kingdom, Lake Willoughby is central to many of the area’s attractions, including a world-renowned mountain biking trail network and two museums celebrating puppetry and the everyday.
Kingdom Trails
More than 85 miles of nationally recognized mountain biking trails winding through Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, about 20 minutes away.
Read More about Kingdom TrailsLearn MoreMuseum of Everyday Life
This curious destination in Glover, about 20 minutes from Lake Willoughby, celebrates the everyday with exhibits on household items like scissors and dust.
Read More about Museum of Everyday Life Learn MoreGreat Vermont Corn Maze
Three miles of trails on 24 acres make this family-friendly farm one of the largest corn mazes in New England.
Read More about Great Vermont Corn Maze Learn More“Willoughby Nights” is an Award-Winning Local Song
The Northeast Kingdom’s Lake Willoughby has a lot of claims to fame. It’s Vermont’s deepest lake. It’s the star of countless stunning photos showcasing its dramatic, fjord-like landscape, nestled between mounts Pisgah and Hor. Now, it’s also the subject of an internationally recognized song by area youth band the Kingdom All-Stars. “Willoughby Nights” won the People’s Voice category of the International Songwriting Competition in May 2023.
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In the area
There are plenty of amenities local to Lake Willoughby. The Willoughby Lake Store offers groceries and other general needs; dig into local dining at the Gap Pub & Grill, near the lake’s northern end. Fuel up in nearby Barton, Orleans, and West Burke, all home to gas stations, some open 24 hours. The WilloughVale Inn and Cottages lodges guests with a bed-and-breakfast vibe, while camping abounds in the region at private campgrounds such as Will-o-wood and White Caps.
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