Lake Willoughby is a stunning glacial lake nestled amidst the verdant peaks of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
Books about Lake Willoughby:
Lake Willoughby Safety Book: The Essential Lake Safety Guide For Children
Willoughby Lake Water Safety Coloring Book
Lake Willoughby Fun Book: A Fun and Educational Book About Lake Willoughby
Willoughby Lake Vacation Super Coloring Book
Location: Nestled between the towns of Westmore and Sutton in Orleans County, Vermont.
Size and Depth: Lake Willoughby stretches for over 5 miles (8.0 km) and boasts a maximum depth exceeding 300 feet (91 meters), making it the deepest lake entirely within Vermont. Some sources estimate depths reaching as high as 340 feet (100 meters).
Geology: Formed by retreating glaciers over 11,500 years ago, Lake Willoughby is a classic example of a glacial lake. The lake is flanked by the imposing cliffs of Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor, collectively known as the “Willoughby Gap” – a geological formation reminiscent of a Norwegian fjord.
Natural Beauty and Recreation:
- The lake’s beauty is renowned, with crystal-clear, cold waters reflecting the surrounding mountains.
- The surrounding Willoughby State Forest offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying the scenic landscapes.
- The lake itself is popular for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing for a variety of fish species, including lake trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout [4, 5]. However, the water temperature remains cold year-round.
- There are two public beaches: one at the northern end and a clothing-optional beach at the southern end.
Legends and Local Lore:
- Lake Willoughby has a rich local history and folklore. Legends surround mysterious happenings beneath the lake’s surface, including a submerged monster and a lost railroad car.
