Lake Memphremagog
Locations
USA > New England > Vermont
Lake Memphremagog: Description
Lake Memphremagog, also called by its French name, Lac Memphrémagog, is a glacial lake in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom that straddles the Vermont-Quebec border. Measuring about 27 miles long and 1 to 2 miles wide, the 25,205-acre lake attracts visitors and residents interested in year-round activities.
Lake Memphremagog has a deep central basin, shallower north and south basins, and 20 islands. Lake depths reach a maximum of 351 feet with an average depth of 51 feet. Lake Memphremagog's islands are popular with sailboat enthusiasts who moor their rigs off tree-lined shores. Sightings of Memphre, the playful sea serpent, have been reported in the lake's deep waters since 1816.
Warmer months at the lake are filled with water activities: Anglers enjoy the lakes offerings, including trout and landlocked salmon, and fishing charters and charter boats are available to take you to the fishing hotspots around the lake. Canoe or kayak the crystal blue waters and enjoy the flora, fauna, and quiet beauty of the lake around you. If you'd like to see the area from a different point of view, hop onto the back of a horse for some equestrian fun. For the exercise-inclined, mountain biking is a very popular way to explore the trails and hideouts of the area. And on a lazy day, you can wile away the hours under the sun in the lake's cool waters.
As summer fades into fall, leaf watching is one of the more popular activities of the region, as the landscape is painted with an array of spectacular orange, yellow, and red hues, sure to impress. During winter, the Lake Memphremagog region is hopping with snowy activities. Cross-country and downhill skiing are among the most popular winter diversions, though they are well-supplemented by snow-shoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, sleigh rides, dog sledding, and ice skating. When the area is blanketed in white snow, take the afternoon to build snowmen, create snow angels, or dominate in a snowball fight. And when you're not in the mood for an active day, sit down to a mug of hot chocolate, a roaring fire, and a good book.
Lake Memphremagog: Statistics
- Type: Natural Freshwater Lake, Not Dammed
- Area: 25,205 acres
- Shoreline length: 75 miles
- Normal elevation: 766 feet
- Mean depth: 51 feet
- Maximum depth: 351 feet
- Residence time: 1.7
- Catchment area: 681 sq.miles
