Enjoy canoeing here in the Saranac Lake Region, where the Adirondack lake country meets the states highest peaks. Surrounding the village are miles of lakes and ponds, streams and rivers, where paddlers of any ability can experience the awe-inspiring interplay of mist and mountain, light and silence, woods and water that is truly unique to the Adirondacks. Here are some suggestions for day or week-long trips in and around Saranac Lake. For canoeing maps and info go here: Canoe Maps.
For information on Chamber-sponsored canoe, kayak, and guideboat races, go to Races.
Also visit Northern Forest Canoe Trail
BOAT & CANOE RENTALS
THE SARANAC LAKES
 All the Saranacs are enhanced by dozens of bays and inlets that offer quiet communion with the surrounding wilderness. Through the chain, the majestic panorama of the High Peaks can be seen in the distance. Taking a relaxing canoe trip, you can listen to the mournful song of the numerous Loons or marvel at the powerful flight of the Osprey, Blue Heron and the American Bald Eagles. Individually, these lakes offer ample opportunities for full and half-day trips; together, their nearly 30 miles of waterway offer delightful options for longer excursions. Take note that motorboats are permitted on all of the Saranac Lakes.
UPPER SARANAC LAKE the largest of the Saranacs, offers 37 miles of shoreline and stirring views of the distant High Peaks, as well as 20 primitive campsites available on a first come basis. The numerous ponds to the west of the lake are ideal for short paddles, or as starting points for longer trips into the Saranacs.
MIDDLE SARANAC LAKE features numerous islands and some of the finest natural beaches in the area. Paddle north to Weller Pond, a lovely and secluded wilderness pond. There are five campsites on Weller Pond and twenty on Middle Saranac, both on islands and on the shore.
LOWER SARANAC LAKE is our favorite for family day trips, with numerous access points and convenient boat and canoe rentals. Given its proximity to the village of Saranac Lake downtown is one mile from Ampersand Bay, the Lower Lake is ideal for easy day tripping. One popular trip begins in Lower Saranac, continues down the Saranac River, through Oseetah Lake and Lake Flower to the boat launch downtown. For overnight excursions, there are over 55 campsites located on the islands and on shore.
NOTE: The 87 campsites on Lower and Middle Saranac Lakes comprise the Saranac Lake Island State Campground, maintained by the New York State DEC. All sites are accessible by boat only, and there is a fee for camping on these sites. Reservations may be made via the internet at ReserveAmerica.com. Or by Calling 800/456-2267.
KAYAK SLALOM COURSE
 The Saranac River, Whitewater Practice Area Located just below the Lake Flower Dam is a 500 foot long man-made Cass I (moving water) rapid, accessed from the canoe launch in the village municipal parking lot.
The Adirondack Paddlers Club maintains the site with 10 to 15 slalom gates and holds weekly training sessions wednesdays at 5 p.m. and sponsors a slalom race in May and youth kayaking programs in July and August.
The area is open to the public and free of charge. The gates are up April through October. Contact Jim Sausville at 891-2062 for more information.
THE ST. REGIS CANOE AREA
A pond hopper's paradise located approximately 15 miles northwest of the village of Saranac Lake. The St. Regis is the largest wilderness canoe area in the Northeast U.S., offering some of the most stirring and serene paddling to be found anywhere. The Canoe Area is easily accessed, making for a great selection of half day, full day, and multi day excursions. We recommend the historic "Route Of The Seven Carries," beginning at Little Clear Pond and ending at Upper St. Regis Lake. You can camp along the way, or do the trip in an easy day! There are numerous primitive campsites throughout the Canoe Area which are available on a first come basis. Note that motor boats are not permitted on these waters.
AREA RIVERS
SARANAC RIVER: The Saranac offers an enjoyable and easily accessible variety of excursions. From two canoe launches in the village, it is an easy, meandering paddle to any number of take outs downstream, along NY 3.
RAQUETTE RIVER: A gentle, scenic river, offering a number of charming campsites, many with lean to's (3-sided log shelters). From Saranac Lake, access can be found either at Axton Landing (3 miles south of Upper Saranac Lake) or through a state launch site 16 miles west of the village on NY 3 & 30. Downstream lies Tupper Lake, while upstream are Raquette Falls, and Long Lake.
WHITE WATER RAFTING
ADIRONDAC RAFTING COMPANY
Adirondac Rafting Company runs guided Wild and Scenic Rafting trips through the Hudson River Gorge. We provide all necessary gear and a riverside lunch. Open daily from April through October. To contact, call 518-523-1635 or send an email to rafting@adelphia.net.
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