The Champlain Valley is a large valley that extends from northeastern New York into northwestern Vermont in the United States. The valley is about 160 miles (260 km) long and 50 miles (80 km) wide, and drains about 7,000 square miles (18,000 km2) of land. It is named for the French explorer Samuel de Champlain, who explored the area in the early 1600s. The Champlain Valley is home to some of the largest cities in upstate New York, including Burlington, Vermont's largest city, and Plattsburgh. The valley also contains many smaller cities and towns, including Saranac Lake, Lake Placid, Ticonderoga, and Port Henry. The Champlain Valley is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The Adirondack Park, which includes parts of the valley, is the largest state park in the United States. The park offers hiking, camping, fishing, and other activities. The Champlain Valley is also home to many ski resorts, including Whiteface Mountain, Killington Resort, and Stowe Mountain Resort. The Champlain Valley is a major agricultural region. dairy farms are common in the valley, and Vermont's famous Ben & Jerry's ice cream is produced in the town of Waterbury. The valley also produces a variety of vegetables and fruits, including potatoes, sweet corn, apples, and strawberries.