April 2020: Due to the current public health crisis, all planned Lake Champlain Land Trust events have been postponed.
Please check back regularly in the coming weeks and months for updates. Thank you.
CANCELLED — Ice Trek to Knight Island – Sunday, February 16, 2020
For the past two years, the Lake Champlain Land Trust has co-hosted the popular Over ‘n Back Trek to Knight Island State Park. Unfortunately, due to unsafe ice conditions beyond City Bay, this year’s Trek has been cancelled. To learn more about how the Lake Champlain Land Trust conserved this magnificent 175-acre State Park back in 1990, visit our Knight Island webpage.
What: CANCELLED – Over ‘n Back Trek to Knight Island—Hike, skate or ski depending on the weather.
Where: City Bay, North Hero, VT (Across from Hero’s Welcome General Store)
When: Sunday, February 16, 2020
Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Snowshoes or boots with traction devices, trekking poles or cross-country ski poles for added stability, ice skates, water bottle, camera.
For updated weather and ice conditions, and a full schedule of Great Ice events, including an Italian dinner and FlapJack breakfast hosted by our partners The North Hero House Inn & Restaurant, visit the Great Ice website or Facebook page. See you there!
Rock Point Winter Trek – Saturday, January 25, 2020
Join us as we explore the winter trails of Rock Point in Burlington, Vermont. We’ll pass through mature forests and walk along cedar bluffs on our way to the spectacular Eagle Bay Overlook on this moderate winter hike.
What: Moderate Hike (2 miles roundtrip)
Where: Leddy Ice Arena Parking Lot (Meeting Place) – Click here for driving directions from your location. Leddy Park is located at 216 Leddy Park Road in Burlington off of North Avenue. Traveling from the south, the Park road is just before the entrance to the Ethan Allen Shopping Plaza. Traveling from the north, the access road is just after the entrance to the Shopping Plaza.
When: Saturday, January 25, 2020
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Traction devices for boots or snowshoes are a must. We also suggest bringing a water bottle, camera, and trekking poles or hiking stick (if you have them).
Free but registration is required.
Please RSVP to , or call 802-862-4150 x3.
Annual Meeting and Guided Hike at Rock Point!
Join us as we celebrate all the important conservation work we accomplished together in 2019. After the meeting, our staff naturalist will lead a tour of Rock Point’s scenic trails. We can’t wait for you to see all the great trail improvements made possible by our members and all those who pitched in to support the Rock Point and Arms Forest Coalition Campaign.
What: Lake Champlain Land Trust Annual Meeting and Guided Hike
Where: Rock Point Conference Center, 20 Rock Point Road, Burlington, VT
When: Saturday, October 26, 2019
Time: 10:00 am to 12:30 pm
Note: This event will take place at the Conference Center, which is located on the Rock Point property. From Institute Road, follow Rock Point Road past the Rock Point community gardens and Diocesan parking areas. Once you cross the narrow bridge over the Burlington Bike Path, stay right and follow the road for another 0.2 miles to the Conference Center parking area. Coffee and light breakfast snacks will be available.
Help Us Cut the Ribbon at Tracy Woods!
Join us on October 12, 2019 for the Grand Opening of the Tracy Woods Community Trail in South Hero. There will be seasonal refreshments, a ribbon cutting ceremony, and guided hikes led by staff from the Lake Champlain Land Trust and South Hero Land Trust. The Tracy Woods Conservation Project protects 45 acres of fields and woodlands offering bucolic views of South Hero and the Green Mountains, as well as 450 feet of Lake Champlain shoreline. You won’t want to miss the celebration!
What: Tracy Woods Community Trail Grand Opening
Where: Tracy Woods, 43 Tracy Road, South Hero, VT
When: Saturday, October 12, 2019
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 noon
Note: There are no facilities. Restrooms are available at the Jolly gas station in South Hero.
Help Protect the Lake and Walk Away With Free Trees!
Join us on Sunday, October 13th at 10:00 am for a fun morning of planting trees at Cumberland Bay State Park in Plattsburgh, New York. We’ll be demonstrating proper planting techniques, discussing how natural landscaping can improve water quality, and giving away free bare-root trees and shrubs. All tree planting volunteers will receive a free Lake Champlain Land Trust t-shirt!
This event is part of the Lake Champlain Land Trust’s “It Takes a Watershed” project, an innovative watershed-scale approach to making water quality improvements that leverages the skills and dedication of local citizens to restore our waterways. The project is made possible with generous support from Patagonia.
What: Tree Planting and Giveaway
Where: Cumberland Bay State Park (Meet in the Parking Lot)
152 Cumberland Head Rd, Plattsburgh, NY (Directions)
When: Sunday, October 13, 2019
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
What to Bring: Work gloves, water bottle, shovel (if you have one).
What to Wear: Sturdy boots, long pants, long-sleeved shirt, water bottle.
* RSVP requested to: (802) 862-4150 or
Switchback’s Flynn on Fire Festival!
Join us for a scorching good time at the Switchback Brewery in Burlington. Stop by our table to learn more about our latest conservation projects and sign up to be the first notified about our guided hikes and volunteer events. You can also enter a raffle with great prizes that benefits the Lake Champlain Land Trust! Many thanks to the dedicated employee-owners of Switchback for supporting our vital mission to conserve the wildlife habitats, islands, parks, forests, and natural areas of Lake Champlain.
What: Community festival with music, food, live fire performance by Cirque De Fuego and artist demos.
Where: Switchback Brewing, 160 Flynn Avenue, Burlington, VT
When: Saturday, September 28, 2019
Time: 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Note: Tickets are $10 ($12 Day of Festival). Children 12 and under are free. For more info, and to purchase you tickets, visit Switchback’s Flynn on Fire webpage.
Discover Split Rock Mountain!
Join us for an exciting day of moderate to difficult hiking at the 3,700-acre Split Rock Mountain Wild Forest. We’ll follow scenic trails through mature forests to stellar Lake Champlain views. This event will offer two hiking destinations: one moderate trek to a lower lookout with less elevation gain suitable for those interested in a shorter and easier walk; and one more difficult route with twice the elevation gain and a short, steep rocky trail section at the very end. We will describe each hike and allow participants to choose their hike based on their previous hiking experience and fitness level.
What: Moderate to Difficult Hike (3 or 4 miles round-trip)
Where: Lewis Clearing Bay Trailhead, Westport, NY (We will do our best to facilitate carpooling from the Charlotte, VT Ferry Dock.)
When: Saturday, September 14, 2019
Time: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Hiking boots, long pants, water bottle, and camera.
Due to limited parking at trailhead, space is limited. RSVP required: (802) 862-4150 or
Trail Work Party at Tracy Woods in South Hero!
The Lake Champlain Land Trust and the South Hero Land Trust are teaming up to host the last Volunteer Work Party of the summer at Tracy Woods on Saturday, August 17, 2019 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join us as we put the finishing touches on the trails in preparation for their grand opening this fall!
Completed in 2018, the Tracy Woods Conservation Project protects 45 acres of fields and woodlands offering bucolic views of South Hero and the Green Mountains, as well as 450 feet of Lake Champlain shoreline. Now that the land is conserved, the Lake Champlain Land Trust and the South Hero Land Trust are working together with the landowner and local volunteers to improve the property’s kid-friendly loop trails.
We’ll have projects for everyone, so no experience is necessary. After the work party, volunteers are encouraged to explore the trails and enjoy the beauty of Tracy Woods.
What: Trail Improvement Work Party
Where: Tracy Woods, South Hero, VT
When: Saturday, August 17, 2019 (Rain or Shine)
Time: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Sturdy footwear, long pants, water bottle, and work gloves (if you have them).
Please RSVP to receive instructions for parking and other information. To RSVP email or call 862-4150.
CANCELLED – – Rock Point Views and Brews Hike!
Cancelled Due to High Threat of Thunderstorms – Join us for a moderate hike along the scenic trails of Rock Point. We’ll finish in time to let folks grab a pint and dinner at the City of Burlington’s Beach Bites food truck night.
Come experience the beauty and wilderness-like feel of Rock Point on a summer evening. The Lake Champlain Land Trust and our partners are working to permanently protect this unique area, create safe access points from the Burlington Bike Path and local neighborhoods, ensure that the area will remain accessible to the public forever, and improve the worn-down trails of this well-loved community treasure.
For more information about Leddy Park Beach Bites food truck event, visit the City of Burlington’s Beach Bites webpage.
What: Moderate Hike (3 miles round-trip)
Where: Rock Point in Burlington (Meeting Place: Leddy Ice Arena Parking Lot)
(Google Maps Directions to: 216 Leddy Park Rd, Burlington, VT)
When: Wednesday, July 17, 2019
Time: Rock Point Hike – 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Optional Food and Drink at Beach Bites – 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
What to bring/wear: Hiking boots, water bottle, and camera.
* RSVP requested to: (802) 862-4150 or
Help Protect the Lake and Walk Away With Free Trees!
Join us on Saturday, June 15th at 10:30 am for a fun morning planting trees at the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge in Swanton. We’ll be demonstrating proper planting techniques, discussing how natural landscaping can improve water quality, and giving away free bare-root trees and shrubs. All volunteers will receive a free Lake Champlain Land Trust t-shirt!
After the tree planting, all are welcome to enjoy the scenic trails and waters of the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR). The Refuge features five kid-friendly trails with excellent birdwatching opportunities. You can also bring your kayak or canoe and explore the tranquil Missisquoi River. For more information, visit the MNWR website.
This event is part of the Lake Champlain Land Trust’s “It Takes a Watershed” project, an innovative watershed-scale approach to making water quality improvements that leverages the skills and dedication of local citizens to restore our waterways. The project is made possible with generous support from Patagonia.
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What:Tree Planting and Giveaway  |
The Mountain Goat and the Lake Champlain Land Trust are teaming up to host a Tree Giveaway at the outdoor gear shop’s Manchester store (4886 Main Street) on Saturday, June 1, 2019 from 12 to 4 p.m. Lake Champlain Land Trust staff will be on hand discussing proper tree planting techniques, answering questions about natural landscaping for water quality, and giving away bundles of bare-root native trees and shrubs. We hope to see you there!
This event is part of the Lake Champlain Land Trust’s “It Takes a Watershed” project, an innovative watershed-scale approach to making water quality improvements that leverages the skills and dedication of local citizens to restore our waterways. The event is supported by The Mountain Goat and made possible by generous funding from Patagonia.
What: Tree Giveaway Day
Where: The Mountain Goat, 4886 Main Street, Manchester, VT (directions)
When: Saturday, June 1, 2019
Time: 12 noon to 4 p.m.
Questions? Call (802) 862-4150 or email
Help Protect the Lake and Walk Away With Free Trees!
Join us on Friday, May 24th at 3 pm for a fun afternoon planting trees at the Upper La Platte River Natural Area in Shelburne. We’ll be demonstrating proper planting techniques, discussing how natural landscaping can improve water quality, and giving away free bare-root trees and shrubs. After we get our hands dirty protecting Lake Champlain’s water quality, we’ll meet up at the Switchback Tap Room in Burlington for a well-deserved beverage.
This event is part of the Lake Champlain Land Trust’s “It Takes a Watershed” project, an innovative watershed-scale approach to making water quality improvements that leverages the skills and dedication of local citizens to restore our waterways. The project is made possible by generous support from Patagonia.
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What:Tree Planting and Giveaway |
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Rock Point in Bloom…You Won’t Want to Miss the Show!
Join us for a moderate hike along the scenic trails of Rock Point as we search for wildflowers and enjoy stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. We’ll be on the lookout for white, yellow and purple blossoms among the massive trees and rock outcroppings of this spectacular urban wildland.
Come experience the beauty and wilderness-like feel of Rock Point. The Lake Champlain Land Trust and our partners are working to permanently protect this unique area, create safe access points from the Burlington Bike Path and local neighborhoods, ensure that the area will remain accessible to the public forever, and improve the worn-down trails of this well-loved community treasure.
Last year at this time, we enjoyed one of the most expansive displays of spring wildflowers we’ve every seen. With any luck, these gorgeous harbingers of spring will be in full bloom. You will not want to miss this feast for the eyes. Don’t forget your camera!
What: Moderate Hike (3 miles round-trip)
Where: Rock Point in Burlington (Meeting Place: Leddy Ice Arena Parking Lot)
(Google Maps Directions to: 216 Leddy Park Rd, Burlington, VT)
When: Saturday, May 11, 2019
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
What to bring/wear: Hiking boots, long pants, water bottle, and camera.
* RSVP requested to: (802) 862-4150 or
Ice Trek to Knight Island – This Sunday, Feb 17th
You will not want to miss this fun event! Come experience the unique thrill of walking across the ice from North Hero to scenic Knight Island. While our region has experienced several thaws this winter, we are excited to share that our friends in North Hero are reporting plenty of ice for this year’s Trek.
Great Ice! is a family-friendly, community-run festival, celebrating winter on Lake Champlain. The Lake Champlain Land Trust is proud to co-host the popular Over ‘n Back Trek to Knight Island State Park. Participants will enjoy hot chocolate and a warm fire at the Ranger Cabin. Don’t forget to bring your ice skates, so you can enjoy skating on the cleared rink and skating loop after the Trek!
To learn more about how the Lake Champlain Land Trust conserved this magnificent 175-acre State Park back in 1990, visit our Knight Island webpage.
What: Over ‘n Back Trek to Knight Island—Hike, skate or ski depending on the weather.
Where: City Bay, North Hero, VT (Across from Hero’s Welcome General Store)
When: Sunday, February 17th
Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Snowshoes or boots with traction devices, trekking poles or cross-country ski poles for added stability, ice skates, water bottle, camera.
For updated weather and ice conditions, and a full schedule of Great Ice events, including an Italian dinner and FlapJack breakfast hosted by our partners The North Hero House Inn & Restaurant, visit the Great Ice website or Facebook page. See you there!
Discover the Rock Point and Arms Forest!
Join us as we explore the winter trails of Rock Point in Burlington, Vermont. We’ll pass through mature forests and walk along cedar bluffs on our way to the spectacular Eagle Bay Overlook on this moderate winter hike.
What: Moderate Hike (2 miles roundtrip)
Where: Leddy Ice Arena Parking Lot (Meeting Place) – Click here for driving directions from your location. Leddy Park is located at 216 Leddy Park Road in Burlington off of North Avenue. Traveling from the south, the Park road is just before the entrance to the Ethan Allen Shopping Plaza. Traveling from the north, the access road is just after the entrance to the Shopping Plaza.
When: Saturday, January 12, 2019
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Traction devices for boots or snowshoes are a must. We also suggest bringing a water bottle and camera.
January 10, 2019 UPDATE: We are looking forward to a nice hike at Rock Point on Saturday at 10 a.m. This is considered a moderate hike due to the winter conditions. Given the recent snow and refreeze, we will be walking on hard-packed snow with some refrozen wet spots. The ungroomed trails may be slippery in spots, so traction devices for boots are a must. If you don’t have traction devices, such as YakTrax or Micro-spikes, we highly suggest borrowing or buying a pair (YakTrax are $25 at Outdoor Gear Exchange in Burlington). Also, you may wish to bring trekking poles (if you have them) for added stability.
The predicted high temperature for Saturday is 14 degrees, so wear layers and an extra-warm hat! With any luck, the sun will be shining, making it feel warmer.
Free but registration is required.
Please RSVP to , or call 802-862-4150 x3.
Join us as we celebrate the extraordinary conservation work we have done together. You will not want to miss this event featuring the premier of the Lake Champlain Land Trust’s 40th Anniversary video, delicious appetizers from Cloud 9 Caterers, and award-winning Shelburne Vineyard wine.
Executive Director, Chris Boget, will give a short presentation on our new 2019 priority conservation initiatives, including an exciting update on the Rock Point and Arms Forest project. A brief annual meeting will follow. We hope to see you there!
What: 40th Anniversary Reception
Where: Shelburne Vineyard (6308 Shelburne Rd.) (driving directions)
When: Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Time: 6 pm to 8 pm
$20 suggested donation at the door
(includes a complimentary glass of wine or beer)
Appetizers | Door Prizes | Cash Bar
* Space is limited. RSVP required to: or 802-862-4150.
Please RSVP by Friday, October 19th, so we know how much food to order.
Get outside this summer and fall with the Lake Champlain Land Trust! We have several fun events planned, including a celebration of our 40th Anniversary! Check back for more information, or sign up for our E-newsletter to stay up-to-date on Lake Champlain Land Trust news and events.
In honor of National Trails Day, we’re teaming up with the South Hero Land Trust to do some spring cleaning at the Landon Farm Community Trail. Located in beautiful South Hero, Landon Farm was conserved in 2001 as part of the larger collaborative Round Pond Natural Area project. After the land was conserved, the Lake Champlain Land Trust and the South Hero Land Trust worked together with the help of many volunteers to create a kid-friendly loop trail that winds through the Farm’s northern woodlot.
Join us as we make repairs to the split rail fence, remove invasive garlic mustard and wild parsnip, and perform general trail upkeep.
What: Trail Improvement Workday
Where: Landon Farm Community Trail (South Hero) (driving directions)
When: Saturday, June 2nd (Rain or Shine)
Time: 9 am to 11 am
What to bring/wear: Work gloves and water bottle. We suggest wearing long pants, sturdy boots, and a hat.
Please Note: Due to limited parking, RSVP Requested to , or call 802-862-4150.
Want to learn more about the Landon Farm Community Trail? Visit our Landon Trail webpage, where you will find more information about the trail and a printable hiking guide.
Experience the Forest at Night and Call Owls!
Bring your friends and family for a fun-filled, naturalist-led, evening hike as we learn about owls and explore the Upper La Platte River Natural Area in Shelburne, VT. Unplug and enjoy a quiet walk—we may even hear an owl!
What: Full Moon Owl Hoot Hike
Where: Upper La Platte River Natural Area (Shelburne, VT)
When: Friday, March 2, 2018
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
What to bring/wear: Traction devices for boots or snowshoes are a must. We suggest bringing a headlamp or flashlight.
Please bring weather appropriate clothing as the temperature will drop after dark.
Free but registration is required. This is a very popular event and space is limited. Please RSVP to , or call 802-862-4150 x3.
Eagle Mountain Winter Trek!
Join us as we explore the winter trails of Eagle Mountain Natural Area in Milton, Vermont. We’ll pass through open fields and mature forests on our way to the spectacular Hoyt Lookout on this moderate winter hike.
What: Moderate Hike (2 miles roundtrip)
Where: Eagle Mountain Natural Area – Click here for driving directions.
When: Saturday, January 27, 2018
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Traction devices for boots or snowshoes are a must. We also suggest bringing a water bottle and camera.
Free but registration is required.
Please RSVP to , or call 802-862-4150 x3.
Slideshow Presentation and Annual Meeting!
Wednesday, October 18th at 7 p.m.
From the 1840s to the 1870s, thousands of travelers arrived in Burlington on large steamships originally docked at the Head of Lake Champlain at the “Lake Station” adjacent to our newest natural area in Whitehall, NY. Today, all four tracks of the former railcar-to-steamship station are long gone, as is the storage building on our Whitehall Cliffs Natural Area.
Join us as Executive Director, Chris Boget, presents a slideshow exploring the unique natural and cultural history of the Head of Lake Champlain, including Whitehall Cliffs Natural Area and the lost “Lake Station” docks. Featuring historic photographs and maps, as well as stunning present day images of the ruins of the Lake Station, the slideshow will illuminate the fascinating history of this scenic landscape. A brief annual meeting with cake will follow the presentation.
When: Wednesday, October 18, 2017 
Time: 7 p.m.
What: Slideshow presentation, brief annual meeting, and cake
Where: One Main Street, Train Station Lobby, Burlington, VT (detailed directions below)
Note: Ample free parking in Main Street Landing Lot
Detailed Directions: The talk and celebration will be held in the Train Station Lobby (lower level) at One Main Street in Burlington. One Main Street is the large beige brick building with the gargoyles on top and green awnings. It once housed the train station. Simply drive down Main Street, cross Battery Street at the light, and follow the street down to the large open surface parking lot on the left (just north of the One Main Street building).
From the parking lot, you may enter One Main Street from the bike path, where there is a covered entrance with sliding doors. (From Main Street, you enter the upper lobby and walk down the central staircase to the Train Station Lobby below.)
This event is free, but RSVP requested. REGISTER now!
*Photo courtesy of the Historical Society of Whitehall
Sunset Bike and Conservation Update!
Bring binoculars and your camera for this scenic four-mile roundtrip bike ride on the Colchester Causeway. Learn about Porter Natural Area, Law Island, and our current conservation projects. We’ll bike from Airport Park to a resting place along the Colchester Causeway near Law Island where we’ll enjoy scenic views in all directions. Executive Director Chris Boget will provide an update on our conservation efforts, including several exciting new land protection projects in Vermont and New York.
What: Easy Bike Ride (4 miles roundtrip, mostly flat) and Brief Conservation Update
Where: Airport Park (Meeting Place) Address: 500 Colchester Point Road, Colchester, VT
Click here to create personalized driving directions.
When: Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Time: 6 pm to 8:30 pm
What to bring/wear: Bicycle, water bottle, camera
Free but registration is required.
Please RSVP to , or call 802-862-4150 x3.
Explore the Other Side of Eagle Mountain!
Join us for a naturalist-led hike through the southern loop trails of Eagle Mountain Natural Area in Milton, Vermont. We’ll walk along mossy ledges, pass through a mature beech forest, and learn about the unique farming and maple sugaring history of this incredible land. On our way back to the trailhead, we’ll stop at the Hoyt Overlook, which provides spectacular views of the Champlain Islands and northern Adirondack Mountains.
What: Moderate Hike (2.5 miles roundtrip)
Where: Eagle Mountain Natural Area – Click here for driving directions.
When: Saturday, July 1, 2017 (Rain or Shine)
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Hiking boots, long pants, water bottle, camera
Free but registration is required.
Please RSVP to , or call 802-862-4150 x3.
Wild About Wildflowers at Butternut Hill!
Bring your camera as we look for spring blossoms at one of the best wildflower viewing sites in the Champlain Valley. We’ll follow an easy two-mile-long loop trail to the shores of Lake Champlain.
What: Wildflower Hike
Where: Butternut Hill Natural Area (North Hero, VT) – Click here for driving directions.
Click here for information about The Lake Champlain Land Trust’s role in the conservation of Butternut Hill Natural Area.
When: Saturday, May 13, 2017
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
What to bring/wear Waterproof boots, long pants, water bottle, and camera.
Free but registration is required.
Please RSVP to , or call 802-862-4150 x3.
Plant a Tree (or Ten) for Lake Champlain!
Join us on Saturday, November 19th at 10 am for a Tree Planting Workday! We’ll plant native trees along the La Platte River and celebrate this important water quality project with delicious coffee and baked goods from August First Bakery.
What: Upper La Platte River Natural Area Tree Planting
When: Saturday, November 19 (Rain or Shine, Snacks Provided)
10 am to 1 pm
Where: Upper La Platte River Natural Area, 480 Thomas Road, Shelburne, VT
What to Bring: Work gloves, water bottle, shovel (if you have one)
What to Wear: Long pants, sturdy boots, hat
Celebrating Five Years of Restoring the
Upper La Platte River Natural Area!
Please bring your friends and family and join us for a Fall Hike and Annual Celebration at our Upper La Platte River Natural Area in Shelburne on Sunday, October 23rd.
We’ll be talking about our tremendous progress in restoring the important riverbanks of the La Platte River, walking the new connector trail linking the scenic Upper Field Trail to the Hemlock Trail, and offering both an easy and moderate naturalist-guided tour of the trail system.
AGENDA
• Water Quality Update: Come see the diverse array of new trees and shrubs (over 1,200 planted and counting!) and learn why restoring our floodplain forests is so important for both protecting our communities and the Lake.
• Restored Wildlife Habitats: Find out what animals are now living in and around the La Platte River and view exciting wildlife photos taken this fall at the Natural Area!
• Annual Meeting / Celebration: We’ll provide updates on our ongoing and new projects, and we’ll celebrate with apple cider and donuts!
• Hike the Trails: We’ll offer two separate naturalist-guided tours—an easy half-mile loop and a moderate two-mile loop.
When: Sunday, October 23, 2016
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (Rain or Shine)
What: Project updates, annual meeting, naturalist-guided hikes, and refreshments
What to bring/wear: Hiking boots
Where: Upper La Platte River Natural Area, Shelburne, VT (directions)
Free but space is limited. Preregistration is required.
Please RSVP to or (802) 862-4150 x3
Plant a Tree (or Ten) for Lake Champlain!
We will be hosting a Tree Planting Workday this November (Date and Time TBD). We’ll be planting native trees along the La Platte River and learn why restoring our floodplain forests is so important for both protecting our communities and the water quality of Lake Champlain.
Subscribers to our E-news will be the first to be informed about the tree planting date and time….sign up today!
Birds and Bagels at Split Rock Mountain!
Bring your binoculars and your appetite as we look for bald eagles and enjoy a tasty trail snack of fresh local bagels (from Dogwood Bread Company in Wadhams, NY) during a moderate three-mile-hike to a gorgeous Lake Champlain overlook.
What: Hike and Birdwatching
When: Saturday, August 27, 2016 (Rain or Shine),
9 am to 12 noon
Where: Split Rock Mountain Wild Forest
What to Bring: Water bottle, binoculars, snack
NOTE: Due to limited parking, space is limited. RSVP required: , or call 802-862-4150.
Round Pond Restoration Workday!
Join us on Join us as we continue restoring the beautiful woodlands of Round Pond and go for a short hike. If this 2001 conservation success story has been on your list for a while, this is a great excuse to visit!
What: Round Pond Restoration Workday
When: Saturday, July 16, 2016 (Rain or Shine),
9 am to 12 noon
Where: Round Pond State Park, South Hero, VT
(Park at the intersection of East Shore Rd and Landon Rd.)
What to Wear: Long sleeves and pants, sturdy boots, hat
What to Bring: Work gloves, water bottle, shovel (if you have one)
P.S. Registration required. Please register today by email to: or call 802-862-4150.
Plant a Tree (or Ten) for Lake Champlain!
Join us on Monday, May 16th at 10 am for a Tree Planting Workday! We’ll plant native trees along the La Platte River and learn why restoring our floodplain forests is so important for both protecting our communities and the water quality of Lake Champlain. We need your help to restore an entire forest on the conserved Upper La Platte River Natural Area.
What: Upper La Platte River Natural Area Tree Planting
When: Monday, May 16 (Rain or Shine, Snacks Provided)
10 am to 12 noon
Where: Upper La Platte River Natural Area, 480 Thomas Road, Shelburne, VT
What to Bring: Work gloves, water bottle, shovel (if you have one)
What to Wear: Long pants, sturdy boots, hat
Join Us for Green Up Day in South Hero!
We are excited to start our volunteer season with a fun Green Up Day event at Round Pond State Park on Saturday, May 7th (details below). Our friends at the South Hero Land Trust coordinate all of the town’s Green Up Day activities. This is our second year leading the Round Pond restoration work. The project will involve removing invasive species such as wild parsnip and honeysuckle.
Note: Space is limited. Registration required. Please let us know if you will be attending as soon as possible, as it will help us plan the day.
If you can’t make Green Up Day, we have another spring volunteer day planned for mid/late May. We’ll be planting trees at our Upper La Platte River Natural Area in Shelburne. (The date and time for this event will be forthcoming.)
As always, if you have any question feel free to e-mail our Outreach Coordinator Jeff at or call 802-862-4150.
What: Green Up Day Restoration Project
When: Saturday, May 7th
9 am to 11 am
Where: Round Pond State Park, South Hero, VT
(Park at the intersection of East Shore Rd and Landon Rd.)
What to Wear: Long sleeves and pants, sturdy boots, hat
What to Bring: Work gloves, water bottle, shovel (if you have one)
P.S. Registration required. Please register today by email to: or call 802-862-4150.
Get outside this spring with the Lake Champlain Land Trust! We have several fun events planned this spring, including a tree planting workday at our Upper La Platte River Natural Area in Shelburne. Check back for more information, or sign up for our E-newsletter to stay up-to-date on Lake Champlain Land Trust news and events.
Experience the Forest at Night and Call Owls!
Bring your friends and family for a fun-filled, naturalist-led, evening hike in the deep forest as we learn about owls and explore Niquette Bay State Park. Unplug and enjoy a quiet walk in the woods—we may even hear an owl!
What: Evening Owl Hoot Hike
Where: Niquette Bay State Park (Colchester, VT)
Click here for information about The Lake Champlain Land Trust’s role in the conservation of Niquette Bay State Park.
When: Friday, February 26th
Time: 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Traction devices for boots or snowshoes are a must on the well-used winter trails of Niquette. We suggest bringing a headlamp or flashlight.
Please bring weather appropriate clothing as the temperature will drop after dark.
Free but registration is required. This is a very popular event and space is limited. Please RSVP to , or call 802-862-4150 x3.
Get outside this winter with the Lake Champlain Land Trust! We have several events planned, including a snowshoe hike at Eagle Mountain and the always-popular annual Owl Hoot at Niquette Bay State Park. We’re also teaming up with the organizers of North Hero’s Great Ice! to help put on this exciting multi-day festival featuring ice skating, dog-sled rides, pickup hockey, and treks across the frozen Lake (February 3rd UPDATE: Great Ice! has been cancelled due to indequate ice and snow — See http://greaticevt.org/ for details).
Check back for more information, or sign up for our E-newsletter to stay up-to-date on Lake Champlain Land Trust news and events.
Paddling Presentation and Annual Meeting!
Wednesday, October 28th at 7 p.m.
Join the authors of the new book A Paddler’s Guide to the Champlain Valley—former trustee Cathy Frank and friend Margy Holden—as they share a slide show of their epic journey through the Champlain Valley’s beautiful waterways! They will share their behind-the-scenes stories, humorous adventures, and stunning pictures.
The book expands on their regional bestseller A Kayaker’s Guide to Lake Champlain, and includes popular river trips, as well as lesser-known paddles through wetlands, creeks, and secluded streams. A brief annual meeting and book signing (with cake!) will follow the presentation.
When: Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Time: 7 p.m.
What: Paddling presentation, brief annual meeting, and cake
Where: One Main Street, Train Station Lobby, Burlington, VT (detailed directions below)
Note: Ample free parking in Main Street Landing Lot
Detailed Directions: The talk and celebration will be held in the Train Station Lobby (lower level) at One Main Street in Burlington. One Main Street is the large beige brick building with the gargoyles on top and new green awnings. It once housed the train station. Simply drive down Main Street, cross Battery Street at the light, and follow the street down to the large open surface parking lot on the left (just north of the One Main Street building).
From the parking lot, you may enter One Main Street from the bike path, where there is a covered entrance with sliding doors. (From Main Street, you enter the upper lobby and walk down the central staircase to the Train Station Lobby below.)
This event is free, but RSVP required. REGISTER now!
Bring your friends and family and join us for a habitat restoration workday at our Eagle Mountain Natural Area in Milton!
Spend a few hours helping to improve the habitat and trails in the areas near the spring brush fire zone and learn why forest restoration work is so important for supporting native plant species, improving wildlife habitat, and protecting the Lake. After our work is done, we’ll head to the Hoyt Overlook for a great view of the Lake!
When: Saturday, September 12, 2015
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
What to bring/wear: Work gloves, long pants, boots, plenty of water, and, if you have them, large pruners and/or a small hacksaw.
Location: Eagle Mountain Natural Area, Milton (directions)
Free. Please RSVP to help us plan the day. REGISTER now!
RSVP to the workshop on Protecting Lake Champlain!
What: We’re teaming up with the Lake Champlain Sea Grant Program and Friends of Northern Lake Champlain to host a hands-on lake protection workshop for property owners on Lake Champlain’s shores. The workshop will outline what shoreland owners need to know about the 2014 Shoreland Protection regulations and how they can go beyond these requirements to protect the Lake’s water quality and important wildlife habitat. Regional experts on land use and lake science, including a representative from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), will be on hand to answer your questions.
When: Friday, July 17, 2015
Time: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Where: Camp Randolph Clubhouse, Highgate, VT (click here for directions)
Free. RSVP Required. Click here to RSVP.
Tree Planting in Shelburne Tuesday, May 19th!
Please bring your friends and family and join us for a Tree Planting Workday at our Upper La Platte River Natural Area in Shelburne.
Spend an hour or three planting native trees along the edges of the La Platte River and learn why restoring our floodplain forests is so important for both protecting our communities and the lake. After planting, we’ll provide updates on our ongoing and new projects!
When: Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Time: 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
What: Tree restoration planting and updates on our programs.
What to bring/wear: A shovel, gloves, long pants, boots, and your enthusiasm
Where: Upper La Platte River Natural Area, Shelburne (directions)
Free. Please RSVP to help us plan the day. REGISTER now!
A special thank you to our partners Mike Ingalls of the Intervale Conservation Nursery, Becky Tharp of the Lake Champlain Sea Grant, and the State of Vermont Ecosystem Restoration Program.
Hike One of our Wildflower Trails!
Celebrate Mother’s Day or a college graduation by hiking through our preserves dotted with spring wildflowers.
The recent “summer” weather has been perfect for native wildflowers. Bring your family and friends to one of our many conserved areas to see wildflowers peaking during this beautiful time of year.
Four Suggested Wildflower Hikes on Lake Champlain Land Trust Conserved Lands
- Eagle Mountain (Milton). This beautiful short loop includes wildflowers (Mountaintop Trail) and a spectacular vista over the lake (Hoyt Lookout Trail).
- Niquette Bay State Park (Colchester). This easy hike follows wildflower-rich areas down to a sandy beach.
- Butternut Hill / Camp Ingalls (North Hero). A mile-long flat trail to Lake Champlain, but some of the thickest displays of wildflowers in the Champlain Valley are within 500 feet of the parking area.
- Landon Community Trail (South Hero). A short and easy hike full of wildflowers and scenic vistas.
Click the links above for directions for these areas and others!
For more information about these hikes, call us at 802-862-4150 or e-mail .
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Join us for Green Up Day, Saturday May 2nd!
Invasive Plant Removal: We’re teaming up with our friends at the South Hero Land Trust to help prevent the spread of invasive Wild Parsnip at Round Pond State Park. Meet our staff naturalist at 8:45 a.m. at the corner of Landon & East Shore Roads in South Hero. Please bring your own shovel. Afterwards, join us from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for a Green Up Day BBQ at the Folsom School Playground featuring free burgers, hot dogs, and ice cream!
No RSVP necessary. For more information, call Jeff at 802-862-4150, ext. 2 or e-mail .
Owl Hoot
Our thanks to Vermont Public Radio’s Vermont Edition (host Jane Lindholm and hiker/producer Ric Cengeri) who recently included our successful 2015 Owl Hoot on the March 25, 2015 episode of the Vermont Edition. (Listen to the Owl segment here.)
If you are interested in attending a future naturalist-led event on one of our conservation projects, send your postal address or email to and we will invite you to upcoming hikes.
