Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Horicans
Horicans is a public boat ramp on Lake Champlain near Isle La Motte, Vermont. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, shore fishing. Best visited in summer.
At a Glance
Water Body
Lake
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Fee
Free
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Launch into Lake Champlain near Isle La Motte, Vermont. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.
Horicans is a public access point on Lake Champlain in Vermont, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.
This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.
Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and shore fishing and information kiosk and restrooms and winter access.
Getting here from Isle La Motte takes about 5 min, putting Horicans within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Horicans ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
- •Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
- •Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
- •Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Horicans?
- Horicans is a public boat ramp in Vermont. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Horicans?
- Horicans supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Horicans?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, shore fishing, information kiosk, restrooms, winter access. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Horicans?
- The best time to paddle at Horicans is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Horicans?
- Water conditions at Horicans include calm, sheltered.
- Is Horicans good for beginners?
- Yes, Horicans is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.9139, -73.3135
Quick Facts
- State
- Vermont
- Region
- Northeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Isle La Motte
44.9139, -73.3135
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Nearby Paddling
Dillenbeck Bay
Vermont · 1.8 mi
Goosepoint Campground
Vermont · 2.0 mi

North Hero Causeway
Vermont · 2.8 mi
Stoney Point
Vermont · 3.7 mi
Stephensen Point
Vermont · 4.2 mi
Holcomb Bay
Vermont · 4.2 mi