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Crystal Lake - Barton, Vermont

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• Crystal Lake

Crystal Lake is approximately three miles long and about one mile in width. The 778-acre deep cold waters are excellent habitat for rainbow trout, lake trout, yellow perch, chain pickerel, smallmouth bass and panfish. Crystal Lake boating opportunities, including boat rentals, are available. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy fishing, picnicking, a playground and swimming.

History - In 1759, during the French and Indian War, Roger's Rangers were chased into the Crystal Lake - Barton area, according to the history books. It is believed that Robert Roger was familiar with this area at the age of fifteen and that he participated in and helped lead the raid on St. Francis in Canada.

At one time, there was a granite quarry on the east side of Crystal Lake. Near the turn of the century, steamboats barged stones across the lake. Crystal Lake park's beach house was made of granite quarried beside the lake. It was constructed in the late thirties by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It has a very unusual architectural design and received prominent recognition the year it was built.

Things to do - Crystal Lake State Park offers almost a mile of sandy swimming beach, a large granite bathhouse with flush toilets, changing areas and a concession stand. Picnicking opportunities include 40 free standing charcoal grills, nearly 80 picnic tables, a playground and lots of parking space. Fishing is thoroughly enjoyed at Crystal Lake. The deep cold waters offer an opportunity to catch rainbow trout, lake trout, yellow perch, chain pickerel, smallmouth bass and panfish. Cross-country skiing permitted in winter by walking around entrance gate; all facilities closed including restrooms.

Nearby attractions include Jay Peak Gondola, Jay; Burke Mountain Toll Road and fire tower, E. Burke; Historical Granite School, Brownington and Ethan Allen Furniture, Orleans.

Summer events include Orleans County Fair, Barton

Weather - Winter daytime temperatures in the lower half of the Lakes / Kingdom region averages 14 to 16 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 to -9 Celsius). The upper half of this region experiences winter temperatures ranging below 14 degrees Fahrenheit (below -10 Celsius). Summer daytime temperatures are cooler along the western area of Lake Champlain averaging 66 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (19 to 21 Celsius). The central area of this region expects temperatures from 66 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (19 to 20 Celsius) with the eastern area of this region experiencing the coolest summer time temperatures of less than 66 degrees Fahrenheit (below 19 Celsius). The yearly precipitation for Lakes and Kingdom Travel Region vary from less than 36 inches (91 centimeters) along the western line to more than 44 inches (112 centimeters) along the eastern border of New Hampshire and Canada.

Where - Crystal Lake State Park is located in Barton off SR 16 at the northern end of the lake.