When you think of the state of Vermont, you might be more inclined to consider outdoor sports like skiing, rather than diving. Think again! You can explore some fantastic wrecks and more at Lake Champlain, which straddles the border of Vermont and Northern New York state. Covering a vast 435 square miles, and featuring eight wrecks that comprise the Lake Champlain Underwater Preserve, this lake is the sixth largest in the United States, and is home to more than 80 different freshwater aquatic species. With something for everyone and easily accessible sites, it features visibility of up to 40 feet, and cold water that calls for either a thick wetsuit or a drysuit.
Diving Lake Champlain: Prominent Features
The deepest site you'll find at Lake Champlain on the Vermont side is the wreck of the Phoenix, which rests in 110 feet of water. An old barge that burned to the waterline before sinking here near Colchester Shoal, it is normally reserved for advanced divers.
Other popular wrecks include the OJ Walker, which was built in Burlington, in 1862. This schooner rigged sailing canal boat rests in 65 feet of water and is ideal for intermediate divers and up. While the Walker's ship's wheel and aft cabin hatch cover are still in place, they are extremely fragile, and contact must be avoided; other elements, including the mast, rigging, anchors and boom can be seen lying nearby on the bottom.
The General Butler, an 88 foot sailing canal boat, was lost in December of 1876. Loaded with marble blocks, it rests in 40 feet of water. Another interesting site is the Horse Powered Ferry, which is located off North Beach. A team of horses walked on a turntable that connected to gears and shafts, turning the paddle wheels. Used during the early 1800's this mode of transport became outdated when the steam engine was invented.
To get a good look at the lake's geology, take a trip to Ferris Rock, which is sometimes known as Schuyler Island. To its west side, a fossil-filled wall and an old buoy can be found, and to the south, massive rocks and overhangs call for exploration. There are several wrecks in the area, although they have been flattened by heavy ice over the years, and there are lots of artifacts associated with those wrecks scattered all over the bottom.
At Willsboro Bay, you'll find steep cliffs that tower above the lake in fjord-like fashion, continuing straight down to a depth of over 120 feet. You'll see a railroad bed cut into the cliff; here, there are amazing artifacts that remain from the days when the track was active, including tools, signals, and even boxcars.
There are no fees to dive Lake Champlain, but if you want to dive the underwater preserve area, you will need to make reservations for a time slot in advance; either online, or at the Burlington Community Boat House at 645 Pine Street, near College Street. Be sure to read and follow all reservations, and when diving the historic wrecks, do not touch or take anything, as the sites are protected by law. Picking up other "stuff" such as bottles, at non-preserve sites is acceptable, and most divers bring a goodie bag along to hold any treasures they might find. There are plenty of accommodations and restaurants topside, and Lake Champlain offers loads of opportunities for fun and relaxation that non-divers will enjoy. Pick a weekend, and head out to Vermont's Lake Champlain, you won't be disappointed!