Ticonderoga Ferry
Experience one of North America's oldest ferry crossings, a historic cable-driven journey across Lake Champlain connecting NY and VT.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother boarding
Ticonderoga Ferry
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother boarding
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience one of North America's oldest ferry crossings, a historic cable-driven journey across Lake Champlain connecting NY and VT.
"A wonderful experience! Worth the price because it is something I have never done before."
Bring Cash for Fare
The ferry is cash-only! Be prepared with exact change or small bills for vehicle and passenger fares.
No Reservations Needed
Just drive up and wait for your turn. It's a first-come, first-served system.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cable-Driven Crossing
Lake Champlain
Experience a unique cable-driven ferry, one of North America's oldest crossings. It's a historical journey across Lake Champlain.
Scenic Lake Champlain Views
Lake Champlain
Enjoy picturesque views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding Adirondack and Green Mountains during your short, scenic ride.
Connecting New York & Vermont
Lake Champlain
A convenient and charming way to travel between New York and Vermont, saving time on longer bridge routes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King!
Plan Your Crossing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Fare
The ferry is cash-only! Be prepared with exact change or small bills for vehicle and passenger fares.
No Reservations Needed
Just drive up and wait for your turn. It's a first-come, first-served system.
Pup-Friendly Crossing
Your furry friends are welcome aboard! Some staff even offer treats for dogs.
Quick & Scenic Ride
The crossing is very short, usually under 5 minutes, offering lovely lake views.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Fare
The ferry is cash-only! Be prepared with exact change or small bills for vehicle and passenger fares.
No Reservations Needed
Just drive up and wait for your turn. It's a first-come, first-served system.
Pup-Friendly Crossing
Your furry friends are welcome aboard! Some staff even offer treats for dogs.
Quick & Scenic Ride
The crossing is very short, usually under 5 minutes, offering lovely lake views.
Check Operating Hours
Hours can vary seasonally. It's best to confirm before your trip to avoid disappointment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise the Ticonderoga Ferry for its historical charm, scenic beauty, and efficient crossing. Many appreciate the friendly staff and the unique cable-driven mechanism. While the cash-only policy and occasional wait times are noted, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive and considered a worthwhile addition to any trip.
"Nice ride across Lake Champlain. This ferry uses 2 cables to get from one side to the other. It was a great way to save some time on the way home. And I enjoyed talking with the folks running the ferry. Price is per vehicle plus per person."
Robert Burk
"Wonderful experience! Worth the price to me because it is something I have never done before. Staff was very happy to see we had a pup and gave her a treat even."
Leah Tierney
"I love taking the ferry to Vermont and back over to Ticonderoga. It's always enjoyable. The gentlemen are nice. Enjoy some of the merch guys. It's good stuff"
Nicholas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ticonderoga Ferry connects the towns of Ticonderoga, New York, and Shoreham, Vermont, across Lake Champlain. You can access it by car from either state. It's a direct route for those traveling between the Adirondacks and Vermont's Champlain Valley. +1
It's a ferry! This unique crossing uses cables to pull the boat across Lake Champlain, offering a historical and scenic experience rather than a bridge.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the most current schedule before your visit, as they are not always posted online consistently.
No reservations are accepted. The ferry operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Simply drive up and join the queue.
The actual crossing of Lake Champlain is very quick, typically taking less than 5 minutes. The wait time in line can vary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Ticonderoga Ferry charges per vehicle and per passenger. As of recent reports, a common price point was around $12 for the vehicle and driver, plus $4 for each additional passenger. Always confirm current pricing.
No, the Ticonderoga Ferry is strictly cash-only. Make sure to have enough cash on hand for your entire party and vehicle.
Tickets are purchased upon arrival at the ferry. There is no option to buy tickets in advance as it's a first-come, first-served service.
While the primary pricing is for vehicles, there is a per-person fare for passengers within a vehicle. Pedestrians and cyclists should confirm the specific fare upon arrival.
Discounts are not commonly advertised. The standard per-vehicle and per-person rates apply.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of Lake Champlain, the surrounding mountains, and the unique cable system. The ferry itself makes for a great subject.
Absolutely! Passengers are encouraged to take photos during the crossing. The open deck provides excellent vantage points.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other passengers and ferry operations.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful lighting, often referred to as the 'golden hour,' for capturing scenic views.
A smartphone is perfectly adequate for most travelers. For more advanced shots, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive lake and mountain vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great way to add a unique element to a family road trip, breaking up longer drives with a memorable activity. Plus, the ferry is pet-friendly, so your furry family members can join in on the adventure too! Remember to bring cash for the fare, as card payments are not accepted.
🐶 Pet Owners
This makes it an ideal choice for pet owners looking for a convenient and scenic way to travel between New York and Vermont without leaving their pets behind. Just ensure you have cash for the fare, as the ferry is cash-only.
🚗 Road Trippers
+1 The experience is often described as a delightful surprise, adding a historical and scenic element to the journey. Be prepared with cash for the fare, as it's the only accepted payment method.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History: The Ticonderoga Ferry
Riding this ferry offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to experience a mode of transport that has served generations. Travelers often express delight at stumbling upon this historical gem during their road trips.
The experience is frequently described as charming and enjoyable, with many appreciating the opportunity to save time compared to driving longer routes. It's a simple yet profound reminder of how transportation has evolved while some essential services remain timeless. Despite its long history, the ferry has faced modern challenges, including disputes over underwater power line installations that could have disrupted its operations.
However, its resilience and continued service underscore its importance to the local community and its appeal to tourists seeking authentic historical experiences. The Ticonderoga Ferry is a must-do for anyone looking to add a unique historical and scenic element to their journey through upstate New York or Vermont. Navigating the Ticonderoga Ferry: Practical Tips for Travelers
The crossing itself is remarkably swift, usually taking under five minutes.
The ferry staff are often noted for being friendly and accommodating, with some even offering treats to canine companions, making it a pet-friendly option. While the ferry is a convenient and charming way to travel, some visitors have noted that signage leading up to the ferry could be improved.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit