Lake Willoughby
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LakeWater ActivityBoatingFishingScenic LookoutPhoto Spot
Overview
Lake Willoughby is a glacial lake located in the town of Westmore in Orleans County in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, United States. The lake's southern end is surrounded by the Willoughby State Forest. This state forest includes Mount Pisgah, Mount Hor, collectively "Willoughby Gap".
Practical Info
Suggested Duration3-6 hours
Best TimeThis breathtaking, deep glacial lake flanked symmetrically by the massive, sheer 1,000-foot vertical cliffs of Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor is a natural wonder. The absolute defining slot is sunset (5:00 PM to 6:30 PM) on a clear evening in early October; the setting sun channels down the gap, transforming the water and rocky precipices into a glowing copper monument.
Getting ThereNestled beautifully along the remote northeastern Kingdom corridor along State Highway 5A. Driving is completely mandatory given its isolated high-alpine coordinate: ride Interstate 91 N north out of St. Johnsbury to exit 23, and travel north along VT-5A N for 20 miles. The highway hugs the shoreline continuously, featuring large free beach lots at both the north and south tips.
Travel Tips
- The lake features two distinct beach areas. North Beach is shallow and family-friendly, whereas South Beach, tucked into the shaded southern end of the gorge, has sections historically designated as clothing-optional; families should plan accordingly.
- Hiking the rugged Mount Pisgah Trail for a cliffside lake view requires stiff hiking boots due to jagged rocks and high winds. From spring through August, specific cliff-climbing sub-routes are strictly closed to protect nesting endangered peregrine falcons.
Photo Tips
Photo Spots
- The iconic composition framing the lake between Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor is best shot from scenic pull-offs along the southern end of Route 5A. Route 5A is extremely narrow; parking on unpaved road shoulders outside designated turnouts is heavily fined.
Reviews
Positive
- Praised as the 'Lake Lucerne' of the East Coast, the crystal-clear water flanked by Mount Hor and Mount Pisgah delivers a striking, fjord-like visual impact.
- There is virtually no over-commercial development here; it completely preserves its pristine, peaceful atmosphere as a truly authentic summer vacation getaway.
- The southern sandy beach and surrounding trail sections are completely free to enter, featuring multiple scenic pull-offs perfect for photography, swimming, and road trips.
- Despite being nestled deep in the mountains, basic infrastructure like public restrooms and simple changing rooms at the north and south beaches are kept reasonably clean.
Heads up
- Public transit is completely nonexistent, and dedicated parking spots are scarce; on summer weekend afternoons, spaces are hard to secure, leading to heavy roadside parking.
- The lake water remains bone-chilling cold even during mid-summer July and August, significantly reducing swimming fun and comfort for families with young children.
- The area lacks multilingual signage and detailed trail maps; foreign tourists arriving without offline maps downloaded beforehand can easily lose their way in the mountains.
- Due to a severe lack of nearby businesses, finding a decent restaurant or major supermarket within miles is tough; all food and supplies must be brought in from towns further out.