Our Lake Dunmore guide covers practical planning for Lake Dunmore Vermont — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
As independent US travel authorities, our Roam States editorial team has explored the length and breadth of Vermont, and few destinations capture the essence of a quintessential Green Mountain summer quite like Lake Dunmore. This freshwater gem, nestled between the towns of Salisbury and Leicester, is more than just a body of water; it’s a vibrant hub for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquil lakeside escapes. With its clear waters, sandy beaches, and surrounding forests, Lake Dunmore Vermont offers an idyllic setting for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking, making it a truly special place for a memorable getaway.
Why Visit Lake Dunmore
For travelers questioning, "is Lake Dunmore worth visiting?", our answer is an unequivocal yes. Lake Dunmore offers a classic Vermont lake experience, characterized by its stunning natural beauty and a wide array of recreational opportunities. The lake itself spans 985 acres and is over three miles long, providing ample space for all types of water activities. Surrounded by the lush embrace of the Green Mountain National Forest, the scenery is simply breathtaking, with Mount Moosalamoo rising majestically to the east.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Lake Dunmore is a haven for active travelers. From paddling and swimming to hiking and fishing, the options are plentiful. The lake's water quality is routinely monitored, with data collected through the Vermont Lay Monitoring Program, focusing on parameters like total phosphorus concentration, water clarity (Secchi depth), and chlorophyll-a, which indicates algae concentration. While generally good, it's always wise to check the Vermont Department of Health's cyanobacteria tracker, especially during warmer months, as conditions can change rapidly. This commitment to maintaining a healthy ecosystem ensures that visitors can enjoy its pristine conditions with peace of mind. For those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure, Lake Dunmore truly delivers, solidifying its status as a worthwhile Vermont destination.
Who It's Best For
Lake Dunmore caters to a diverse range of visitors, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Families with children will appreciate the natural sandy beaches, like the 1,000-foot stretch at Branbury State Park, which offers designated swimming areas and plenty of space for picnicking and sunning. The calm waters are perfect for young swimmers, and many rental options for paddleboats, canoes, and kayaks are available.
Couples looking for a romantic retreat will find the serene lakeside setting and scenic hiking trails incredibly appealing. Imagine quiet mornings on the water or evenings spent watching the sunset over the mountains. Anglers will be thrilled with the fishing opportunities, as Lake Dunmore is home to a variety of species including rainbow trout, salmon, perch, and pike. For the adventurous, the proximity to the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area and the Green Mountain National Forest opens up a world of hiking and mountain biking possibilities. Even those simply seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle will find solace in the tranquility of Lake Dunmore's natural surroundings.
How to Get There & Parking
Understanding how to get to Lake Dunmore is straightforward, as the lake is easily accessible by car. It's nestled in Addison County, Vermont, situated between the towns of Salisbury and Leicester. Vermont Route 53 conveniently follows the eastern and northern shores of the lake.
For those driving, real-time directions can be obtained via navigation apps. If you're coming from major Vermont cities, Lake Dunmore is about an hour's drive south of Burlington and roughly 30-40 minutes north of Rutland. The main village of Leicester is bisected by U.S. Route 7, which runs from Middlebury in the north to Brandon in the south, providing easy access to the area.
When it comes to parking, Branbury State Park is a primary public access point and offers day-use parking. Day entry fees apply, which cover parking and access to the park's amenities. For more secure parking, especially if you plan to hike for an extended period, you can pay a parking fee at Branbury State Park and leave your vehicle inside their gates overnight. Additionally, public boat launch areas are available. The Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife operates a boat launch on West Shore Road, just south of Waterhouses Marina. There's also a smaller boat launch at the foot of Sage Court on the east side of Lake Dunmore. For those utilizing services like boat rentals, parking is typically available on-site at marinas such as Waterhouses.
Top Things to Do
There are countless things to do at Lake Dunmore, ensuring every visitor finds an activity to suit their preference. Our team particularly enjoys the diverse range of water-based recreation, complemented by extensive land adventures. The clear, clean water of Lake Dunmore is ideal for swimming, with Branbury State Park offering a fantastic 1,000-foot natural sandy beach and a designated swimming area.
Boating and Water Sports
Boating is a major draw, and you can bring your own vessel or rent one from local providers. Waterhouses Marina, operating since 1876, offers a variety of rentals including fishing boats, pontoon boats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and paddleboats, available by the hour or full day. Rates for 2026 are $30/hr or $175/day for fishing boats, and $75-$95/hr or $375-$425/day for pontoon boats. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards typically rent for $13/hr or $65/day. Green Mountain Boys Boat Rentals also delivers premium boat rentals to Lake Dunmore, offering half-day, daily, and weekly options. Invert Sports provides high-quality boat rentals, jet skis, and water sports equipment for wakeboarding, waterskiing, tubing, and more. Vermont State Law requires drivers born after January 1, 1974, to have a Boater's Safety Certificate to operate a motorized vessel. The lake also has a speed restriction of 5 mph when within 200 feet of the shoreline, other boats, or people in the water.
Fishing
Lake Dunmore is renowned for its excellent fishing, boasting species like rainbow trout, salmon, perch, and pike. Anglers can fish from the shore at Branbury State Park, wading out west of the swimming area to access productive waters with aquatic vegetation. For motorboats, the Vermont Fish & Wildlife's Magoon Access Area on the west shore provides public access. Fishing licenses can be purchased at the Lake Dunmore Kampersville Deli or the Brandon Town Clerk's Office, as well as online.
Lake Dunmore Hiking Trails
The area surrounding Lake Dunmore is a hiker's paradise, with numerous Lake Dunmore hiking trails offering scenic vistas, waterfalls, and mountain lakes. Many trails are located within the adjacent Moosalamoo National Recreation Area and the Green Mountain National Forest.
- Falls of Lana and Silver Lake Trail: This popular 5.4-mile loop trail starts near Route 53 on the east side of Lake Dunmore. It takes you past the beautiful Falls of Lana and then climbs to the serene Silver Lake, where you can find a picnic area. The trail shares an approach with Rattlesnake Cliffs trails for the first mile. Parking is available off Route 53/Lake Dunmore Road, south of Branbury State Park. Note that from mid-March to August, parts of the trail to Rattlesnake Cliffs may be closed to protect nesting peregrine falcons.
- Chandler Ridge/Leicester Hollow Loop: This 10-mile loop provides stunning views of Silver Lake and Lake Dunmore, winding through a fern-covered hollow. It's also a popular mountain biking trail within the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area.
- Minnie Baker Trail: Accessible from Route 53 in Leicester, this trail offers a steep climb and then descends to the Leicester Hollow Trail.
These Lake Dunmore hiking trails range in difficulty from easy to advanced, ensuring options for all skill levels. We recommend checking trail conditions and maps before heading out, especially for longer excursions into the Green Mountain National Forest.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lake Dunmore largely depends on the activities you have in mind. For classic lakeside fun—swimming, boating, and sunbathing—the summer months are undoubtedly the most popular. From mid-May through mid-October, the park is open, with the warmest summer months offering ideal conditions for water activities. Expect vibrant energy, bustling beaches, and all rental services in full swing. However, this is also peak season, meaning higher prices and larger crowds.
If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer people, the shoulder seasons of late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-early October) are fantastic. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall transforms the surrounding Green Mountain National Forest into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds, perfect for hiking and scenic drives. Branbury State Park remains open through mid-October, allowing visitors to enjoy the foliage and scenic lakeside views. During these times, you'll still find many outdoor activities accessible, but with a more tranquil atmosphere. Winter is not recommended for most recreational activities on the lake itself, as the park closes mid-October through mid-May.
Where to Stay Nearby
Finding the right Lake Dunmore lodging is key to a comfortable and enjoyable trip. The area offers a range of options, from rustic camping to cozy inns and private rentals, catering to various preferences and budgets.
- Branbury State Park: Located directly on the eastern shore of Lake Dunmore, Branbury State Park offers 36 tent/RV sites and 7 lean-to sites. The park also has a rentable two-bedroom cottage, the Moosalamoo Cottage, which is lake-accessible. Amenities include flush toilets, token-operated hot showers ($0.50 for 5 minutes), a concession stand, picnic areas, and an RV sanitary station. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for peak summer dates, as the park is open from mid-May through mid-October.
- Waterhouses Campground & Marina: Situated on Lake Dunmore in Salisbury, Waterhouses offers 86 grassy, wooded, and riverfront campsites with water and electricity, suitable for RVs, trailers, pop-ups, and tents. They also have five rental suites available year-round and a private cabin, "The Hideaway," for summer rental. Waterhouses also features a marina with boat rentals and a pub.
- Lake Dunmore Kampersville: This campground in Salisbury provides a laid-back camping experience with various RV and tent sites, some with full hookups. They offer simple amenities like a horseshoe pit and a community fire pit, and host themed weekends throughout the summer season.
- Private Rentals and Guest Houses: For those seeking more privacy or group accommodations, options like the Lake Dunmore Guest House near Middlebury offer luxury homes with lake access, private docks, and amenities like fully appointed kitchens and WiFi. These are ideal for families or longer stays, providing a home-away-from-home experience.
- Hotels and Inns: While fewer directly on the lake, nearby towns like Middlebury and Brandon offer excellent hotel and inn options. The Middlebury Inn, Courtyard Middlebury, and Brandon Inn are highly-rated choices, typically within a 15-30 minute drive of Lake Dunmore. These provide more traditional lodging with amenities such as restaurants and pools.
When planning your Lake Dunmore lodging, especially for summer 2026, we advise booking well in advance as popular spots fill up quickly. Many accommodations, particularly campgrounds and private rentals, offer 2026 rates and encourage early reservations.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To truly experience the best of Lake Dunmore Vermont, we've crafted a sample 2-day itinerary that balances relaxation with adventure.
Day 1: Lakeside Leisure & Hiking Highs
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Beach Day at Branbury State Park. Start your day with a refreshing swim at Branbury State Park. Enjoy the 1,000-foot sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles. Day entry is $4 per person (under 3, one per group free) for 2026.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Picnic by the Lake. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of Branbury State Park's many picnic areas. Alternatively, grab a bite from the park's concession stand.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Falls of Lana & Silver Lake Hike. Embark on a moderate hike to the Falls of Lana and Silver Lake. This 5.4-mile loop offers stunning waterfalls and a tranquil lake. Park off Route 53, just south of Branbury State Park. Allow 3-4 hours for this scenic trek.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Lakeside Dinner & Sunset. Enjoy a casual dinner at Paddler's Pub at Waterhouses, offering good food and drinks with a lakeside ambiance. Afterward, relax by your campsite or rental, watching the sunset over Lake Dunmore.
Day 2: Water Adventures & Local Exploration
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Boating on Lake Dunmore. Rent a pontoon boat, kayak, or paddleboard from Waterhouses Marina or Green Mountain Boys Boat Rentals. Explore the lake's coves, try your hand at fishing, or simply paddle around. Pontoon boat rentals range from $75-$95/hr for 2026. Remember your boater's safety certificate if required.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Local Eats in Salisbury/Leicester. Head to the Lake Dunmore Kampersville Deli for a quick and convenient lunch.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Explore the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area. Drive or bike into the Green Mountain National Forest and explore more of the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area. Consider a shorter, easier trail or a scenic drive to take in the forest's beauty. You could also visit the nearby best places in Vermont like Middlebury for some local charm and shopping.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Refresh & Relax. Head back to your lodging for a quick refresh.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Campfire & Stargazing. If camping, enjoy a campfire (where permitted) and roast some marshmallows. If staying in a rental, find a comfortable spot to stargaze – the clear Vermont skies are incredible.
Last updated: 2026-07-07 by the Roam States team.