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Outdoors

Saranac Lakes Paddle

Paddle south down Lower Saranac Lake past Eagle Island, through First and Second Ponds, down the Saranac River to the Lower Locks, then across Oseetah Lake to Lake Flower in the village of Saranac Lake. Upper, Middle and Lower Saranac Lakes together make a 27 km (17 mile) paddle with one carry, part of the 1,191 km (740 mile) Northern Forest Canoe Trail.

For The Reps · Updated

canoe trip scenery for Saranac Lakes Paddle near New York
Photo: Kayaking on Lake Saranac by Wikimedia Commons contributor, Public domain. Via Wikimedia Commons.
Where
New York, USA
Distance
16 km (10 miles) one way

The route

'Round the Mountain: Ampersand Bay on Lower Saranac Lake to Lake Flower.

Launch at the New York State DEC boat launch on Ampersand Bay (or from the beach at Ampersand Bay Resort) and take out at the DEC launch on Lake Flower in the village. It is one way, so leave a car or arrange a pick-up at the finish.

Before you go

  • Keep to the eastern shore of Lower Saranac Lake to find the entrance to First Pond, opposite Bluff Island, about 4.8 km (3 miles) from the start.
  • At the Lower Locks you can go through the lock or carry round it; the drop is only a few feet.
  • The Northern Forest Canoe Trail describes this trip as suitable for all skill levels.
  • For an overnight version, the Saranac Lake Islands Public Campground has 87 campsites on islands in Lower and Middle Saranac Lakes.

What to bring

  • A buoyancy aid, worn rather than stowed
  • A dry bag for your phone and keys
  • Water and snacks
  • Sun cream, a hat and sunglasses
  • A warm layer, even on a hot day

Getting ready for it

Paddling works your back, shoulders and core more than your arms.

A few weeks of rows, pull-ups or pulldowns and some rotational core work will make a full day far more comfortable.

Staying safe

  • Check the wind and water forecast before launching.
  • Tell someone your route and when you expect to be back.

Route details checked September 30, 2026 against northernforestcanoetrail.org, en.wikipedia.org, en.wikipedia.org and en.wikipedia.org. Rules and closures change, so check before you go.