It's in our name
Paddling in Saranac Lake is the perfect way to be immersed in breathtaking scenery, to observe wildlife, and to take in the fresh mountain air!
We're called Saranac Lake for a reason; three reasons, actually! There are three Saranac lakes — Upper, Middle, and Lower — and they're all connected by the Saranac River. Our decidedly different village is the perfect destination for paddle sports because we’re surrounded by lakes, ponds, and rivers. Lake Flower, Lower Saranac Lake, Lake Colby, and the Saranac River are all readily accessible. In addition, there are numerous paddling options located within a short drive from Saranac Lake, including the St. Regis Canoe Area. Saranac Lake is unique not just for its abundance of water, but also for the diversity of wildlife and the unrivaled mountain views.
Outfitters and guides
If you are interested in a day trip and don’t have the gear—no worries! Outfitters in Saranac Lake will hook you up with the gear you need, from kayaks, to canoes, to SUPs. If you are interested in longer trips, seek out a guide also available at outfitters in and around town.
Festivals and events
Because paddle sports are so important to us, we celebrate it with a month-long festival! June brings Celebrate Paddling ADK, a month-long celebration of events, guided trips, and other activities centered around paddling.
Saranac Lake is the landing spot for the 90-Miler Canoe Classic, the largest multi-day paddle sports event in the Northeast. This weekend-long race takes paddlers across the “Highway of the Adirondacks” and throughout the Blue Line, from Old Forge to Lake Flower Landing in Saranac Lake. This race is open to all levels of paddlers and all types of boats — just no boats with engines. Along the route, paddlers experience the stunning diversity and beauty of the Adirondacks.
Northern Forest Canoe Trail
Saranac Lake is a stop along the epic 740-mile canoe trail that takes paddlers across the Northeastern United States and parts of Canada. The trail runs from Old Forge, New York to Fort Kent, Maine. Whether you plan to paddle the entire route or just a portion, Saranac Lake is a scenic stop along the way.
