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Paddling

10 Cool Reasons to Paddle Saranac Lake
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May
13
2020
For generations, residents and visitors have happily, blissfully, adventurously explored the Saranac Lake region by water. Well before Europeans arrived, the Iroquois traveled these waters via canoe en route to seasonal hunting areas and settlements. Later, the Adirondack guideboat was created and played a key role in the opening of this wilderness to tourists and adventurers. From poets to... [Read More]
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Author:Aurora Wheeler
Categories:Paddling
Lake Kushaqua, A Beautiful Place to Rest
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Aug
16
2019
So much to do Summers are busy for all of us; getting together with friends can be difficult even if we are retired! When I am able to paddle with a couple of friends, Gretchen and Patti, it is a special day. On this day we agreed to paddle Lake Kushaqua in Onchiota. Lake Kushaqua is an Algonquin word which means, “beautiful place to rest,” and it is also a beautiful... [Read More]
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Author:Lisa Sciacca
Categories:Camping, Cycling, Dining, Family Fun, Fishing, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, Shopping
Paddle Lower Saranac Lake to Fish Creek
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Jun
17
2019
We set out early for a morning paddle on Fish Creek. We planned to paddle a half day, then head into town for lunch at Left Bank Café, followed by a massage. We really needed a break from our hectic lives, a day or two to completely let go and just relax, so we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to be out in nature. We wanted to soak in the amazing views and look for wildlife. We were amazed... [Read More]
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Author:Rivka Cilley
Categories:Paddling
Paddle Into Spring
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Apr
15
2019
For paddlers, the arrival of spring means the ice is moving out and we can start planning new adventures on the water. Paddling doesn’t have to be an intimidating experience, so if you are new to it or lack in experience, a little planning can help you have a fun and stress-free Adirondack adventure. There are several enjoyable, easy paddles close to Saranac Lake, including through downtown... [Read More]
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Author:Aurora Wheeler
Categories:Paddling
Paddling on Lower Saranac Lake
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Mar
20
2019
Sumitted by guest writer Rivka Cilley Our dog Raquette starts getting excited the moment we take out our paddles. He knows that he is in for a long day of relaxing on the water.  We are expecting an easy day on the water with plenty of sunshine and fresh air. The paddle from State Bridge to Ampersand Bay on Lower Saranac Lake is a great trip for kayaking on open water in a scenic, island... [Read More]
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Author:Rivka Cilley
Categories:Paddling
Must Haves for a Cool Paddling Town
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Mar
14
2019
I am drawn to water like a moth to light. The sound is therapeutic, the movement is hypnotic. Simply put, a day on the water is good for the soul. My love affair with water has lead me to countless towns that hug the water's edge. While the water is a draw, it takes more than that to make a place a cool paddling town. It needs the combo of water galore and water ingrained in day-to-day... [Read More]
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Author:Kelly Brunette
Categories:Paddling
Boating, Birding, and Boisterousness on the Saranac Chain of Lakes
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Mar
13
2019
Last spring I was invited to take a much-overdue trip up the Saranac River from from Lake Flower to Kiwassa Lake for some family-fun activities on the water. I jumped at the opportunity since I hadn’t been on a boat trip on the Saranacs in years — that's way too long!  [img:camp.jpg] Setting out We loaded up the coolers, towels, kids gear, and adult gear, and headed out on Lake... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Paddling
Three Mind-blowing Facts About St. Regis Canoe Area
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Mar
13
2019
Longing for an extraordinary nature experience? Consider the Saranac Lake region's St. Regis Canoe Area, where you can sample most of the outdoor activities the Adirondacks has to offer. It's basically a giant buffet of absolutely gorgeous woods-and-water experiences. The best part is, you have options — you can go full Adirondacks and camp here, or you can make the short... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Paddling
Fall Paddling in the Adirondacks is Amazing!
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Sep
28
2018
A time of year to be savored Fall in the Adirondacks is meant to be experienced. It is a time of cool nights and warm days. It is a time of frosty mornings, the icy coating soon to be burned off by the bright sun. And it is a time of bright leaves which paint the landscape in a kaleidoscope of color. And so fall must be savored. After all, the warm days offer us a throwback to summer, and we... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Fall, Paddling
A Jones Pond Paddle
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Sep
14
2018
A Place You have to Visit Jones Pond is one of those places that requires a visit or two every year. And so, the other evening Wren and I could be found preparing to set off onto the small, intimate body of water. She played in the shallows while I unloaded the boat. Once ready I kicked us off from shore, spotting a Broad-winged Hawk disappear into the trees as I did. We... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Paddling
A Paddle (and Birding!) on Lake Clear Outlet
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Sep
11
2018
The End of a Beautiful Day A splendid summer afternoon was turning to evening as Wren and I pushed off onto the waters of Lake Clear Outlet – one of my favorite local paddles. As I almost always do when I paddle, I skirted the outline of the waterbody, hoping to find birds and other wildlife tucked along the edge of the water. After all, the outlet is outlined in many places with a marshy margin... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Paddling
Beat the Heat!
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Sep
05
2018
With little rain, and lots of sun, the weather in the Adirondacks has been beautiful — especially for those of us lucky enough to get out and play! My friends, Gretchen and Kathy, invited me to paddle with them on a day when temperatures were expected to reach the 90s. Kathy wanted to paddle close to home, where we could have lunch in the shade and swim. There are many options near ... [Read More]
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Author:Lisa Sciacca
Categories:Fall, Paddling
Connect with the Saranac Chain
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Aug
14
2018
The Saranac Chain of Lakes packs a lot of special Adirondack fun into six lakes and two ponds. Launch from the town boat dock on Lake Flower and watch the Victorian homes and small family camps fade into the mostly uninhabited Oseetah Lake. Paddlers here will find plenty of options for exploration. Follow the western shore of Oseetah to discover a river that leads to Kiwassa Lake, or paddle... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Paddling
Exploring Dexter Marsh and Santa Clara Flow
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Aug
03
2018
An early morning walk My dog, Wren, and I travel to lots of cool places in the North Country, and the other day we had the chance to explore Dexter Bog. Dexter is a small area of boreal habitat, but despite its size birders can find a wide diversity in a short period of time. Our early morning walk began with Yellow-rumped Warblers, Common Yellowthroats, a Black-throated Blue... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Paddling
The Great Adirondack Birding Celebration!
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May
15
2018
A Chilly Start to Spring While winter held off the arrival of spring this year with both hands, warm weather is finally coming on in full force – and birds are coming with it. After all, even with the chilly weather we’ve had this spring, birds have been on the move – with ducks like Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Lesser Scaup, and both Hooded and Common... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Events, Family Fun, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, spring, Summer
The coolest paddling routes
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May
01
2018
What are the coolest paddling routes in the Saranac Lake area? That's a tough question, because we are the Lake Country, a paddler's paradise. Canoe, kayak, or even innertube, we have an adventure to fall in love with. To help with this question, I asked some local guide services about their favorite places. What do they recommend most often? Where are the places that are extra scenic, or... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Dog friendly, Fall, Family Fun, Paddling, spring, Summer
Round the Mountain - For All Paddlers
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May
01
2018
The beauty of this 'Round the Mountain race is... it doesn't have to be a race. You don't even have to be in it to revel in the fun. It's a great way to kick off the paddling season and get those competitive juices flowing, or be a spectator, cheering the first boats and experiencing the scenic and picnic possibilities along the shores of Lake Flower. Any time, it can be a... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Events, Family Fun, Historic Downtown, Paddling
Paddling Jones Pond in the Fall
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Oct
27
2017
Warm Weather The warm autumn weather we’ve been having beckons me to use my canoe, and so Wren and I have been trying to get out whenever we can in order to enjoy the water before the cold settles in for good this fall. Time is often a fleeting commodity, and with light waning with each passing day, it is fortuitous that we have so many great local paddling destinations from which to... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Dog friendly, Fall, foliage, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, Summer
An Evening Paddle on Lake Clear Outlet
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Oct
20
2017
Amazing Fall Weather Our weather as of late has been nothing short of amazing, and so my friend and I decided to take advantage of our sunny streak by squeezing in an evening paddle after work the other day. That’s one of the best things about living around here – there are so many lakes and ponds to explore that you can easily add a quick paddle in on a busy day. And at this point in the... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Fall, foliage, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling
A Fall Paddle on Little Green Pond
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Oct
06
2017
A Chance to Explore Outdoors It had been a long, busy – too busy! – week, and I was chomping at the bit to get outside and do some exploring. Our beautiful weather found me wanting to paddle all week. And so as Friday afternoon came, Wren and I loaded up the canoe and headed for the water – first taking an afternoon walk along Lake Colby. The walk was pleasant and we found... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Conservation, Dog friendly, Fall, foliage, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling
A Fall Paddle on the Floodwood Loop
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Oct
02
2017
My favorite place to be has always been on the water. Sure, mountains offer a great trip and spectacular views from above. But being on the water is an experience unique unto itself. Each pond or lake is a ‘valley’ which gives you a new perspective on the woods that surround it. Far enough away from the tree line to take in the view, but close enough to still notice the smaller things. I love... [Read More]
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Author:Glenn Pareira
Categories:Fall, foliage, Paddling
Crystal Clear Waters!
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Sep
27
2017
Let's go! My friend, Kathy, and I both love to paddle for as long as the water is flowing - from spring to late fall. Recently we had the chance to meet up for a spontaneous fall outing. We decided to meet at the intersection of routes 186 and 30 in Lake Clear. I then followed her north on 30 for approximately 1.2 miles to our launch site, an unmarked dirt road on the left, which... [Read More]
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Author:Lisa Sciacca
Categories:Paddling
4 Go-To Paddling Destinations for Fall Foliage
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Sep
06
2017
Below you will get a small taste of paddling the Adirondacks and the Saranac Lake region during the fall foliage season. With peak season coming fast, you don’t want to waste time planning — just get out there. I have selected four locations of the many available to recommend, so take a gander. There's a backcountry lake, a backcountry pond, a big water lake, and an Adirondack river. [img:... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Birding, Fall, Family Fun, foliage, Paddling, Wildlife
Fall Seasons Cold Water Paddling
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Sep
06
2017
Editor's note: As the cold-water season quickly descends, our blogger highlights a few extra tips that will come in handy when taking to our lakes to enjoy the fall foliage. Happy paddling!  Blog originally posted in 2013. Not to set myself up with a very corny pun, but I am in the same boat as many of you — I don’t want to stop paddling either. Honestly, why should we... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Fall, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, Wellness
Be there at the finish!
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Aug
28
2017
The "Highway of the Adirondacks" began a long time before our present two-lane roads. It was much easier to paddle a birchbark canoe through a waterway, which offers fewer barriers than a dense forest. These were the abundant river and lake routes that were joined by varying length of carries, also known as portaging, or as I think of it, the option of "carrying a canoe on... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Events, Fall, Paddling
An Evening Paddle on Middle Pond
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Aug
28
2017
A fun day After the fun and excitement of the solar eclipse last week, Wren and I celebrated by going for a swim at Lake Clear Beach – always a good choice on a warm, summer day. Wren dug in the sand and chased her tennis ball while I swam laps and then snorkeled the line of weeds offshore. The windy day had made the water rather turbid, however, and I eventually stopped to play with Wren... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Dog friendly, Fall, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, Summer
Paddling and Birding along Quebec Brook
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Aug
04
2017
A Place I’ve been wanting to Explore I had been planning to check out Quebec Brook (part of the Madawaska complex) with my canoe ever since the DEC managed to renegotiate the access with a local landowner, so when a friend of mine contacted me that she and a couple other folks were hoping to go there, it was an easy choice to join them. The access which had been in question comes off Rt. 458... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Dog friendly, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, Summer
Slow paddle to Oseetah
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Apr
12
2017
Blogger Note: As the warmer weather descends upon the Adirondacks, I can't help but think of all the cool paddling adventures on the horizon. Of course, that has me thinking about all the cool paddling adventures I've had over the years. Here's one from the 2013 archives that I deem worthy of repeating. Soon. The last time I launched a kayak in Lake Flower, I had to carry over a dam and... [Read More]
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Author:Kim Rielly
Categories:Summer, spring, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Fall
A Fall Paddle On Lake Clear Outlet
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Oct
21
2016
Warm Fall DaysSoaking everything we could out of our recent warm days, Wren and I paddled Lake Clear Outlet the other evening. The sun shined through the glowing trees as we wound our way along Forest Home Road to the small put-in on the side of the road. Forest Home is one of those windy, forest-lined roads everyone should drive in fall. Wren sat in the car while I unloaded the gear and we set... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, foliage, Fall, Dog friendly, Birding
Don't be afraid of the kayak
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Oct
19
2016
We don't need to fear the kayak. Or the canoe.When I bring up paddling as a great way to see our breathtaking scenery, some people look nervous. And they don't have to feel that way. Concerns about "tippiness" seems to come up more often with kayaks than with canoes, but in either case, this concern is groundless. (So to speak.) These watercraft are very stable, especially with kayaks, where the... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Paddling, Family Fun, Dog friendly
Don't miss the summer's coolest events
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May
25
2016
[img:je158runaboutrendezvous.jpg]Summer in Saranac Lake is a festival in itself. The village has created a seemingly endless stream of events and happenings in the parks, on the water, and in the historic downtown area.Celebrate natureStop by the Paul Smith’s Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC) for the seasonal Teddy Roosevelt Bird Walks, held throughout the summer. The VIC also offers a wide range... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Paddling, Family Fun, Events, Arts
Brighton: Dusk 'til Dawn
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Oct
13
2015
A wonderful family filled day of fun can be found right in the heart of Brighton. A town located just outside the Village of Saranac Lake and spreading through the Hamlet of Paul Smith’s. Brighton offers a tremendous amount of history, feasts, and fun. HistoryBrighton is overflowing with history starting in 1815 when the first settlers appeared to this small town. There were railways created... [Read More]
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Author:Mary Gallagher
Categories:Winter, Shopping, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Heritage, Family Fun, Fall
Dog Days of Summer aka Beach Time!
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Aug
26
2015
The Best Way to Cool OffOur warm weather of late has found me chatting with friends and family further south who are complaining of the hot and muggy conditions where they live. To be sure it has been warm here and very hot elsewhere – but Wren and I have a solution that eludes many others thanks to where we live. After all, the region is dotted with seemingly countless numbers of lakes and we... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Dog friendly
Martha Reben: Staring down the Great White Plague
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Aug
10
2015
Martha Reben was one tough lady. She came to the Adirondacks at the age of twenty-one, to cure in the famous tuberculosis sanitarium in Saranac Lake. But after three-and-a-half years, it looked like she was losing. Her condition was described as "severely debilitated" and she was facing a procedure of last resort where ribs were removed to collapse a lung. At this same time, 1931,... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Wellness, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Historic Downtown, Heritage, Camping
Paddling and Birding Around Jones Pond
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Jul
29
2015
A Morning Start on a Hot DayWith another hot day coming, Wren and I headed out for a morning paddle on Jones Pond before the sun began to bake the landscape. The day was cool, but rapidly warming as I prepared for our outing, listening to a singing Blue-headed Vireo and White-throated Sparrow. As I fiddled with my gear, I chatted with a couple from Georgia who were camping in one of the campsites... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Dog friendly, Birding
Paddling Middle Pond
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Jul
23
2015
Great Weather for Paddling! With so much warm, sunny weather of late, I have been itching to get out paddling with Wren. As a result, I’ve been driving around with my canoe on my car to make such adventures quicker to organize since the loading process can sometimes delay things. So with my boat pre-loaded, Wren and I were out fairly early the other day to check out the paddling and birding... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Dog friendly, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, spring, Summer
Paddling in the Adirondacks for the First Time!
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Jul
15
2015
A Great Place for an Evening PaddleI made sure to take my nieces and nephew paddling the other week when they came to visit – it's an integral part of an Adirondack adventure, after all. Lake Colby is a great spot for an easy outing, so we all loaded into my large boat and set off. My niece Emily paddled in the bow, I was in the stern, and Rebecca and Tyler sat on Crazy Creek chairs in the middle... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Summer, spring, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Family Fun, Dog friendly
In Defense of Mud Season
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Apr
21
2015
To Everything There is a SeasonTransitions are always times of uncertainty. A big move. A new job. Starting at a new school. So it can be with the changes of the seasons. As winter ends and spring begins, we muddle through a time of year when the weather can be warm and bright one day and the next day see rain, snow, or sleet. This variation from warm spring days to frigid, arctic conditions when... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Cross Country Skiing, Dog friendly, Family Fun, Hiking, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, spring, Wildlife, Winter
Four Seasons of High Points
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Dec
27
2014
Looking back at 2014 in the Adirondacks, there were so many memories of Saranac Lake. I decided the only way to narrow them down was to look at each of our lovely, distinctively different, four seasons. Each one has its own events, traditions, and activities.Each one has its own special charm.MAGICAL WINTERThe 2014 Winter Carnival “Ice Palace” (the term we use regardless of the structure)... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Summer, spring, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Fall, Events
Fall Paddling; Being Ready for the Cold
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Oct
26
2014
Fall Paddling; Being Ready for the Cold I know the cold weather is setting in, the fog has stopped rising from the waters and those water temperatures just keep dropping;, but don’t hang up your boat yet, we still have more paddling to do. Seriously though, it’s not time to take the boats off your roof and replace them with a ski rack, not just yet. Whiteface won’t be open for at least a few... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Fall, Paddling
Doing the Doggie Paddle: Paddling the Adirondacks with your pet!
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Oct
15
2014
When you talk about having an Adirondack adventure with your dog, most people immediately think hiking or camping. Well, I can’t argue that, it makes sense - but paddling? Not that paddling with a dog in your canoe or tandem kayak is totally out of the ordinary, but it’s much less seen than on a trail. As you may be able to imagine, the issue is keeping your dog settled in the canoe and removing... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Dog friendly
Learning to Identify Fall Leaves
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Sep
25
2014
A Time of Transformation We all look forward to the change of leaf color which so defines this time of year in the Adirondacks. It is, after all, an amazing phenomenon and one of the most incredible events to witness in the entire world! Our cool nights and recent cold fronts have already started the process of changing our leaves and the past week has found that transition happening quickly... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Wildflowers, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Hiking, foliage, Family Fun, Fall, Dog friendly
Paddling and Snorkeling Little Green Pond
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Sep
18
2014
Enjoying summer to the endThe final summery days of the season are gold for us all and so Wren and I took advantage of a splendid afternoon earlier this week and set out for Little Green Pond. We started with a swim and as we approached the sandy beach area, I noticed two distant Hooded Mergansers flying along the far shore of the lake. I threw the ball a few times for Wren who plunged in after... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Family Fun, Fall, Dog friendly
A Red Phalarope at Little Clear Pond!
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Sep
09
2014
Shorebirds in the ParkWhile the Champlain Valley rightfully gets the most attention in our region as the place to search for sandpipers and other shorebirds, some shorebirds do invariably make their way south through the central part of the Park. It’s just a matter of finding them since they don’t stay around for long. For instance, over the weekend while I was out looking for warblers along Lake... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Wildlife, Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Family Fun, Fall, Birding
Forks, Fests, and Flatwater: 3 Featured Fall events
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Aug
25
2014
Above:  Be sure to check out the video above, featuring the Saranac Lake Region portion of the 3 day 90-Miler Canoe Classic from Old Forge to Saranac Lake, finishing on Sunday, September 7 in Saranac Lake. By all accounts, September in Saranac Lake is a very busy time for events. The leaves have barely begun to show colors at this point and as they do change, there'll be several events... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Historic Downtown, Family Fun, Events, Cultural, Arts
Paddling Little Clear Pond
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Aug
20
2014
The LoonsCommon Loons were already calling from the water as I unloaded the car at Little Clear Pond. As usual Wren was exploring the water and beach area and she kept bringing sticks for me to throw into the lake. After a few throws and after I had toted everything down to the water, we headed out.A pair of Common Loons sat a few hundred meters out with their large, charcoal gray chick. All... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Summer, spring, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Family Fun, Fall, Dog friendly
3 Short Paddles found in the St. Regis Canoe Area
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Aug
12
2014
The Saint Regis Canoe Area is one of only a couple designated Canoe Areas in New York State. Located in Franklin County it spans three towns and over 18,400 Acres. The St. Regis Canoe Area includes St. Regis Mountain, St. Regis Pond, Long Pond, sections of the east and west branches of the St. Regis River, and 56 other water bodies, of course not all is perfect for paddling - or even feasible,... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Birding, Camping, Family Fun, Fishing, Hiking, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, spring, Summer
Paddling Lake Clear Outlet
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Aug
08
2014
            I have always enjoyed paddling Lake Clear Outlet. The water body is small enough to be paddled in a short period of time, but it contains enough nooks and weedy edges to explore for a few hours if you want. Add to that the potential of paddling Lake Clear itself, and paddlers can take a long time plying the linked waters of the... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Summer, Dog friendly, spring, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Family Fun, Fall
An Evening Paddle on Moose Pond
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Jul
28
2014
The most exciting thing – at least from Wren’s perspective - about the paddle we took on Moose Pond in Bloomingdale this week was the tennis ball she found at the boat launch. I unloaded gear while she played with the ball in the sandy gravel, shoveling it between her legs and then chasing it. Once I was unloaded and ready to push off, I gave her a few throws into the water and she happily... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, foliage, Fishing, Family Fun, Fall, Dog friendly
Adirondack Paddling, Choosing the Right Paddle
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Jul
08
2014
Adirondack PaddlingSizing up the right paddleWhen it comes to buying gear for your paddling adventure there are some things that are very important to realize, and special steps that should be taken to get the appropriate gear for your time on the water. Below I would like to share with you a few important steps when purchasing the right equipment more importantly sizing yourself for a paddle. Be... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Outdoor Recreation, gear, Fishing, Fall, Equipment, Summer, spring, Paddling
Adirondack Paddling - Choosing The Right Boat
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Jul
08
2014
Adirondack PaddlingChoosing the right boat for canoeing & kayakingBoat lengthIf you are just getting into canoeing or kayaking first you need to decide where you will be paddling the most, but not to limit yourself either. First off, will you be navigating rivers with tight oxbows and narrow passages? Will you be on small ponds and lakes? Will you venture off onto larger lakes like the... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Summer, spring, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, gear, Fishing, Fall, Equipment
“One Particular Island” all to ourselves
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Jun
30
2014
As I sat in my chair looking out at Lower Saranac Lake from our campsite on Pirate Island, I found myself humming the Jimmy Buffet song “One Particular Harbor.” I mentioned it to my husband and we immediately dubbed our awesome little island “One Particular Island.” Although we live in nearby Lake Placid and actually have a camp on Placid Lake, we love to go camping in the Adirondacks to... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Dog friendly, Camping, Birding
Spring Paddling on Lake Colby
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Jun
06
2014
This week I was in search of an activity during which I could take advantage of our recent late morning and afternoon breeze. This is the time of year when the black flies come out and the wind may be the best repellent I have found so far. The weather was great and I headed to Lake Colby in Saranac Lake, which is my go-to paddle when my time is limited.I unloaded my boat from the car and grabbed... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:spring, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Family Fun, Dog friendly, Birding
One Magic Canoe: The Seven Carries
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May
28
2014
Adirondack Lakes and Rivers Paddles Kayaking and canoeing in the Adirondacks, especially in the lake country near Saranac Lake, has an abundance of paddling possibilities. We are home to the 18,400-acre St. Regis Canoe Area. This is the only designated Canoe Area in all of New York State, with almost sixty bodies of water to explore, each with their own charm. This broad and untouched... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Dog friendly, Family Fun, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, Summer
Roadside Gems, Paddling the Saranac Lake Region
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May
06
2014
Roadside GemsPaddling the Saranac Lake RegionThe Saranac Lake Region is a mecca of paddling opportunities for all skill levels and rewarding destinations. Questions I often receive are in regards to, where to go. But more deeply, places with easy access, and for new paddlers. Again, not narrowing it down too much, since Saranac Lake has many destinations that are road side, I often think of three... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Birding, Family Fun, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, Wildflowers, Wildlife
5 Hidden Gems for Hiking, Paddling & Trail Running
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Apr
30
2014
5 Overlooked Destinations for Hiking, Paddling, and/or Trail Running1. Floodwood Mountain[img:floodwood.jpg]Getting ThereFrom the intersection of Route 86 and Route 3 follow Route 86 toward Paul Smiths. Continue for 5.0 miles to Route 186 on the left. Follow Route 186 to its end where it turns into Route 30 (approx. 4-miles). Follow Route 30 west for 5.75 miles to Floodwood Road on the right –... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Wildlife, Trail Running, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Hiking, Family Fun, Birding
Cold Water Paddling, Preparation & Fun
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Mar
31
2014
Cold water paddling, preparation & fun I might be a little on the early side for talking about cold water paddling, but it’s better to get the thoughts rolling early so you can plan ahead and be ready when the time comes. I hated to put my paddle away for the season but I did stretch it out for as long as I felt comfortable doing so, and now it’s time to dust off the old canoe and get ready... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Paddling
Top 10 Spots for Paddling in Adirondacks
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Mar
20
2014
Kayaking & Canoeing Top 10The beauty of paddling in the Saranac Lake area is the abundance of choices. But the sheer amount of Adirondacks on offer can be overwhelming! Here’s some Top 10 Paddling Spots to consider when it’s time to get out that canoe, kayak, or stand up paddleboard (SUP.)Wonderful WildernessWe have plenty of pristine and gorgeous places where the only human sound might... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Fishing, Family Fun, Dog friendly, Wildlife
Muskrats!
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Nov
13
2013
            I see muskrats almost every day that I’m out walking with Wren or looking for birds.  I find them in most streams, lakes, and marshes in the region from Bloomingdale Bog to the waterways which empty into Lake Champlain.  This is particularly true during the fall as our days grow shorter and after we change our clocks to... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Fall
You Don't Paddle Into the Wind
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Oct
25
2013
            Warm sunny weather can be difficult to find in the region once the fall sets in, and I took advantage of a warm day to head out on Lake Colby in Saranac Lake for a quick paddle.  I set off from the boat launch making quick progress across the lake.  Lake Colby has a few arms which are fun to explore, and they also serve... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Summer, Paddling, Fall, Outdoor Recreation, foliage
Panther Trifecta
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Oct
09
2013
What exactly is the trifecta, well, it’s nothing official by any means, but something I made up a few days ago. I would paddle Panther Marsh (unofficial name of wetland east of Panther Mountain), then paddle Panther Pond, and then hike Panther Mountain.  The sky was free of clouds but there was a slight cool breeze in the air, sounded and felt like a perfect autumn day.I started with Panther... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Wildflowers, Paddling, Hiking, Fall, Birding
A Fall Paddle on Jones Pond
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Oct
08
2013
            All this warm fall weather has had me wanting to get out for a paddle, and I was finally able to do so this past weekend on Jones Pond near Paul Smiths.  Since Jones Pond is not large, it can be covered in an hour or it can be extended for as long as you want.  And, since Wren does not generally want to lie still for... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Family Fun, Fall, Birding, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Summer
Sparrows Along Lake Colby
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Oct
04
2013
            At this time of year I begin to check out the back side of Lake Colby in Saranac Lake for ducks and other waterfowl passing through our region on their way south.  We have not had a significant cold front in a while, so when I went to Lake Colby the other day, I wasn’t expecting much.  I was correct in my forecast.... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Outdoor Recreation, Hiking, Fall, Birding, Summer, Paddling
Going to Church
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Oct
02
2013
The colors were bright; the sun was high in the sky without a cloud blocking its warm rays, and the wind, absent. This called for a perfect day to get a fall kayak trip in. I had never paddled Church Pond and was curious about the access to Osgood Pond and what it was like.So many times I have driven by Church Pond and the boat launch site, even gotten out of the car for a photograph or two, but... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Fall
Stomping out the Saranac 6 – Week 2 – St. Regis Mountain
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Aug
30
2013
I am sure by now most everyone has heard of the Saranac 6. But if you haven’t it’s a hiking endeavor to climb six distinct peaks in the Saranac Lake Region; Ampersand, St. Regis, Baker, McKenzie, Scarface and Haystack.I had previously climbed all these peaks but have only done one since the start of the Saranac 6ers. A few weeks back I made way to the summit of Ampersand Mountain for my first... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Hiking, Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun
Lows Lower Dam to Lows Ridge, A surf and Turf Adventure
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Aug
22
2013
A surf and turf adventure is simple, first you paddle (surf) to a hike destination (turf) and then paddle back to your car. The Adirondacks are loaded with opportunities like these and the Saranac Lake Region does not fall short.For this adventure we started by hauling our boats a bit out of the area and ending up in the Horseshoe Lake Area for the day. We unloaded our car near Lows Lower Dam but... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Paddling, Birding, Outdoor Recreation, Hiking, Fishing
The Osgood's
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Aug
11
2013
What a great august for paddling, there seems to be a nice cool breeze in the air – with almost the smell of autumn in there as well. The sun was high this past Saturday so we decided to head to Osgood Pond.I called my friend Mike Lynch to see if I could take him up on his offer of borrowing his Old Town Penobscot Canoe - kind of a test drive before we sprung any money on getting one for... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Camping, Birding
A peaceful afternoon on Jones Pond
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Jul
22
2013
This past Saturday started out, not so pleasant, but ended on a high note. With heavy rain in the morning I all but figured the day was going to be lost on some old low budget zombie movie, a pound of popcorn, a six-pack of beer and a pint of Stewart’s ice cream. While to some of you this might not sound too bad, it really isn’t. But, when you have your heart set on doing some fishing and... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Paddling, Summer
Entertaining events will keep you hopping this weekend
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Jul
12
2013
As the skies clear and a mid-July weekend approaches, area visitors and residents alike will be entertained by numerous fun events and cultural offerings this coming weekend.Take a drive over to The Adirondack Interpretive Center in Paul Smiths to check out their Birds of Prey Demonstration with Mark Manske. Spend Saturday afternoon immersed in the lives of birds of prey. Mark Manske of... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Historic Downtown, Heritage, Fishing, Events, Arts
Hoel Pond to Slang Pond for Lunch
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Jul
07
2013
A scenic lunch spot is just what the doctor ordered for such a beautiful day and the paddlers map offered us up a destination that we couldn’t turn down – a peninsula camp on Slang Pond. We started out our morning by picking up a few choice beverages and then swinging by the farmers market at the small park on Lake Flower in Saranac Lake, it’s quite convenient for us that they have it every... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Paddling
Camping in the rain - better known as "damping"
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Jun
28
2013
Our recent weather has left a lot to be desired, but this year it still didn't stop me and the ladies I go camping with every year. As a matter of fact, this was our 14th annual! We become more and more creative when dealing with inclement weather and accumulate a lot of gear after 14 years. Luckily we usually have absolutely beautiful weather. This year was not the case, weatherwise. Buck... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Birding
Paddling and Fishing the Colby’s
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Jun
27
2013
Little Colby Pond and Lake Colby are excellent destinations for paddling, fishing, bird watching and swimming. There are several areas that you can put in on these lakes, from the beach, from the grassy shore, from the state boat launch or from Forest Home Road. My new favorite launch is from Forest Home Road which is the only launch site for Little Colby Pond.  It was a late afternoon trip... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Paddling, Fishing, Birding
Follensby Clear Pond to "Round Pond"
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Jun
20
2013
This was a nice surprise for a short afternoon paddle on Follensby Clear Pond. It seems as though I have half day offs to go play, so I find myself on small excursions.  For some reason I chose Follensby Clear Pond as my destination on this day. I typically stay away from larger ponds where motorboats are allowed to power through, but I had never been on this pond before and wanted to check... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Hiking
Long Pond to Pink Pond's
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May
23
2013
I am sure glad I took advantage of the nice weather we had last week before the moisture settled in for an overextended stay - kind of like that third cousin who shows up unexpectedly with 1987 mobile camper with no exhaust and three hounds – not that I would know what that is like.I decided to only get out one kayak at this point and see what kind of trouble I can get myself into on the waters... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Birding
Little Clear Pond and Grass Pond, a Canoeing experience
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May
09
2013
Canoeing isn't one of those sports where the learning curveis too hard, but it does take a sort of finesse that I have to improve on. It'sthe whole, sitting up high, balance combination technique that I always lackwhen I first sit in one. However, after the first half hour I kind of get inthe rhythm, my friend Mike Lynch might say otherwise.So what got me into this canoe was a text I sent to Mike... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Birding, Outdoor Recreation, Fishing, Paddling

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