Church Pond
- Paul Smiths, NY 12970
Church Pond is a picturesque, roadside body of water that is equally fun to canoeing or just stop for a photo. Either way, you can't go wrong. Church Pond is on Paul Smith's Conservation Easement lands, and is open for public recreation.
Getting there
From the intersection of Route 86 and Route 3 in Saranac Lake, follow Route 86 (north) toward Paul Smiths. Continue through Gabriels and go down the hill known as Easy Street. Coming from Saranac Lake, Church Pond is on the right, just before the intersection with Paul Smith's College.
Church Pond can also be accessed on foot via hiking the Red Dot Trail, which begins at Osgood Pond.
Paddling
There is a hand launch available for launching canoes, kayaks, and SUPs. It is located at the corner of NYS Routes 86 and Hoffman Road. Alternatively, paddlers can launch at Osgood Pond and access Church Pond via a small canal.
Typically, due to its small nature, Church Pond is a good choice on windy days; waves may not be as large as on larger bodies of water.
Hiking
The Red Dot Trail can be classified as "easy to moderate." Near the shore of Church Pond, there is a lean-to, which is a great place for a picnic.