The lowdown

Lake Flower is a great body of water to paddle around with no destination in mind. It is especially popular for people using paddleboards and kayaks. Located in the center of downtown Saranac Lake, the paddle offers a great view of the downtown area and the mountain ranges. If you choose to venture toward Oseetah Lake you will get more of a feel for the natural environment and have the opportunity to observe birds including great blue herons, common loons, seagulls, and other wildlife. At the southern end of the lake you will encounter bog areas with white water lilies and other bog plants. Much of the land around Lake Flower is privately owned. The eastern shore has sections that are owned by the village of Saranac Lake and New York state.

Fact check

• Total distance: @1-3 miles
• Length of time: 1-2 hours
• No portages
• Flat water
• Round trip or one way
• Motorboat access is available at Lake Flower Boat Launch

Logistics

• Public parking is available on Kiwassa Road and Lake Flower Boat Launch
• Put-in/take out options include the Northern Forest Canoe Trail canoe access on the corner of Kiwassa Road and Main Street; Lake Flower Boat Landing; or Lake Flower Avenue Tennis Courts Access across from Sara-Placid Lodge.  

The paddle

Put-in at NFCT canoe access on Kiwassa Road and take out at Lake Flower Boat Landing or Lake Flower Avenue Tennis Courts Access across from Sara-Placid Lodge. Take your time and paddle at your leisure. Stay to the right out of the way of jet skis and motorboats, which can be especially active on weekends. Lake Flower extends around and flows into Oseetah Lake.

Recommended resource: Adirondack Paddler’s Map: The Saranac Lakes