Vermont: The land of endless green mountains (I think that’s why they call it the green mountain state?) and gorgeous lakes and valleys. I refer to Vermont as the “Colorado of the East Coast.” Sure, the Green Mountains aren’t quite as rugged or massive as the Rocky Mountains, but the vibe in Vermont is verrrrry similar to Colorado: Most of the people who live here are outdoor enthusiasts, there are craft breweries galore, and there’s no shortage of Subaru Crosstreks (the official car of outdoorsy people, in case you didn’t know). 

With a state as beautiful as Vermont, hidden gems are everywhere. I’m sure local Vermontians could write a novel about the not-so-well-known treasures found throughout their state (if they wanted to reveal that kind of top-secret information). While spending time in Vermont, we were fortunate enough to get a tip from a few locals about Chittenden Reservoir and Lefferts Pond — both of which turned out to be gorgeous bodies of water surrounded by scenic green mountains.

Chittenden Reservoir

Located in Chittenden — hence the name — this peaceful, high-elevation lake is a favorite among locals. The reservoir is less than 30 minutes from Rutland and Killington Village, making it an easy stop if you’re passing through the southern Vermont region.

In 1909, the Central Vermont Public Service developed the East Creek Dam, creating a reservoir for residents. Named after Vermont’s first governor — Thomas Chittenden — the dam generates enough power to provide electricity to up to 2,500 people.

Today, the reservoir is clean and safe for boating, SUP, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. There’s a few small beaches scattered around the water for folks to hang out and wade into the gentle water during the warm summer months. In addition to the water, there are trails that take you around the reservoir. There are also plenty of rocks along the shoreline, making it easy to pull a paddleboard or kayak ashore, enjoy a few beers, and watch the sun disappear behind the mountains surrounding the reservoir — a perfect summer Vermont Friday night indeed. During the winter months, the lake may be used for ice fishing.

Chittenden Reservoir sits in Green Mountain National Forest, so there’s minimal lakefront development or houses surrounding the shoreline. Instead, the perimeter of the lake is full of luscious trees, shrubbery, and water plants. Mountains loom over the lake, creating an absolutely breathtaking scene. If you paddle across the water, you can even spot Pico Mountain — a popular ski resort near Killington — in the distance.

While in Chittenden (during August 2022), we found that the reservoir would draw a decent crowd in the evenings and weekends that typically consisted of locals with fishing boats or hosting BBQs along the shoreline. However, we never found the reservoir overcrowded, and parking was not a problem.

Chittenden Reservoir FAQ

What is parking like at Chittenden Reservoir?

The reservoir has a large, paved parking lot. It’s a short walk from the parking lot to the mouth of the reservoir. Parking and use of the reservoir are free.

Can you swim in Chittenden Reservoir?

Yes — Swimming, boating, kayaking, paddling, and fishing are all allowed at Chittenden Reservoir. Some sections can get deep, so swimmers are advised to have life jackets with them. There is no lifeguard on duty.

Is there wildlife at Chittenden Reservoir?

Since Chittenden Reservoir is in Green Mountain National Forest, it’s possible to see wildlife — such as bald eagles, deer, grouse, moose, and black bears. However, the reservoir is popular in the summer, and loud noises from boats and families tend to deter wildlife from hanging around the area.

Is there a boat ramp at Chittenden Reservoir?

Yes — There’s a large and heavily used boat ramp at Chittenden Reservoir. There is also a large dock for motorized boats. For paddlers, there is a small beach where you can easily load a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.

Lefferts Pond

Now, Chittenden Reservoir is beautiful and scenic — but it can get a little loud during peak times in the summer. So if you’re looking for a slightly quieter, more secluded place to paddle, I recommend driving a little further into Green Mountain National Forest to Lefferts Pond.

Don’t be fooled by the name: While it’s technically a pond, the body of water is massive. And since motorized watercraft are not permitted, the pond is quiet and typically calm. With less noise and human traffic at Lefferts Pond, there’s a heightened chance of spotting wildlife compared to Chittenden Reservoir. Bald eagles frequently rest in the trees lining the pond, and at dusk, it’s not uncommon to see fish jumping out of the water to catch bugs for dinner. If you’re lucky, you may even catch sight of one of the resident beavers that call the pond home.

To access the lake, you’ll see signs pointing to Lefferts Pond near where you’d access Chittenden Reservoir. Instead of veering to the left, however, you’ll follow a windy road further into Green Mountain National Forest. Eventually, the road turns into a gravel, narrow road. Just keep following it until you reach a small parking lot. From there, you can easily climb down to the water’s edge and load a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe. In addition to the pond, there are also hiking trails.

FYI: Since Lefferts Pond is in Green Mountain National Forest, there is minimal to no cell reception in the area. Be sure to plan accordingly.

Lefferts Pond FAQ

What is parking like at Lefferts Pond?

There is a small, gravel parking lot at the entrance of Lefferts Pond. The pond is not as high-profile as other areas of Vermont, so parking is usually not an issue. However, during the summer and holiday weekends, the parking lot may fill up.

Can you swim in Lefferts Pond?

Yes — people may swim into Lefferts Pond by accessing any of the small beaches surrounding the pond. It’s advised to wear a life jacket as there is no lifeguard on duty.

Is there wildlife at Chittenden Reservoir?

Since Lefferts Pond is in Green Mountain National Forest, it’s possible to spot wildlife there, such as bald eagles, deer, grouse, moose, and black bears. The best time to see wildlife is early in the morning or dusk, right before the sun sets.

Is there a boat ramp at Lefferts Pond?

No — Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Lefferts Pond. There is a small beach where kayakers, paddleboarders, and canoers may load small watercraft.

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