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Ausable Point Wildlife Management Area This is an interesting five-mile circuit which includes the wide meanders of the Ausable Delta and the marshes at the mouth of the Little Ausable River. This spectacular marsh area is home to many species of waterfowl.
Beaver River Canoe Route Enjoy an easy 14-mile paddle through a series of reservoirs and channels which begins just below the Moshier Powerhouse and continues to the High Falls Pond take-out. Maintained by Orion Power New York, the route requires six portages totaling slightly more than two miles. There are designated campsites on the Soft Maple Reservoir. For more information and a detailed route brochure call 1-877-85-ORION.
Big Brook A 4.7-mile cruise through a scenic corridor with fast water sections, best done at high water in the spring.
Big Moose Lake State land borders the northeastern end of the lake where there are several interesting bays, marsh areas and trails. The trails start from the lake and lead into the Pigeon Lake Wilderness where there are campsites and leantos on Russian and Gull Lakes (half-mile carry) and the remote Sister Lakes (3 miles).
Black Lake This lake is an angler's dream. The irregular shoreline, midlake shoals, rocky points, expansive weedbeds and many islands contribute to the area's scenery and provide a favorable habitat for thriving populations of bass and panfish. Services are abundant along the shores of Black Lake. The Indian River flows into this lake from the south.
Black River From Lyons Falls to the Carthage dam are 44 miles of uninterrupted flatwater winding gracefully between the Adirondacks and the Tug Hill Plateau. There are a variety of access points and services along the way.
Blue Mountain Lake 10 islands on this mountain-ringed lake recently became state land. Explore the islands before heading west to the outlet and into narrow Eagle and Utowana lakes. A ½ mile carry at the west end of the lakes leads to the Marion River which can be paddled in either direction. The route leads through meadow and marsh to Raquette Lake.
Bog River The lower Bog canoe and kayak route has 7 miles of technical Class III water which includes unrunnable drops at 6' Split Rock Falls and 30' Pa's Falls. High water levels and expert level paddling skills are required.
Boquet River Canoeable at higher water levels in the spring, this river offers trips of varying lengths and difficulty. From starting points below Split Rock Falls you'll enjoy a fast current through a narrow, winding channel with mild Class II rapids and one short carry. There are few boulders in the 11-mile stretch to Elizabethtown. The 6.5-mile section below this point to the Northway overpass becomes more difficult with a tricky Class III drop and rapids. The next 25-mile stretch to Lake Champlain is best done as a series of short day trips due to the dams and waterfalls at Wadhams, Whallonsburg, Boquet and Willsboro which would require long carries. Overall this is a fairly easy cruise through pasture lands and wooded hills, but it can only be done at high water levels.
Cedar River Flow - Moose River Plains Cedar River Flow is tucked in the mountains far from the main road. Several sites are by the outlet dam. Isolated wilderness sites are located along the shoreline and up the narrow inlet. 40 miles of seasonal dirt roads traverse the Moose River Plains Wild Forest from Cedar River Flow to Inlet. Other old roads and paths branch off the main road and lead to lakes or rivers. Designated camping areas are found along several of the main roads. A brochure on the area is available from the DEC. The area opens to vehicles in the spring after the mud season.
Chazy Lake This four mile lake is nestled at the foot of Lyon, Johnson and Ellenburg Mountains. It can be rough on windy days. There is a beach and park near the dam on Route 374. A 3.5 mile hiking trail leads to the open summit and firetower on Lyon Mountain.
Chubb River This little river may surprise you with a memorable wilderness cruise through a winding channel into a remote mountain-ringed marsh. The nine-mile round trip has one short carry midway. Numerous beaver dams slow travel at lower water levels.
Cranberry Lake Flows and bays extending out in every direction invite exploration and offer refuge on windy days. Many hiking trails originating on the lake shore lead to remote ponds and overlooks on mountain tops. There are 46 designated campsites on the lake.
Cranberry Lake Outlet Starting 1.8 miles downstream from the bridge the gradient of the river changes into a winding flatwater which culminates at the Newton Falls reservoir.
Deer River Paddling Distance: 10 miles. Access to waterway is via .6 mile portage trail from the Red Tavern Road (County Route 14). Above High Falls is the 10-mile flatwater called Deer River Meadows. Access to this section opened in 1999. Below High Falls the Deer River drops rapidly with a mix of moving flatwater, rapids and falls. Access is via dirt roads in Deer River State Forest.
Deer River Flow Paddling Distance: 2.7 miles. Access to waterway: Parking and launch site at the southern end of the flow just off Route 30. This flatwater Adirondack canoe route includes an expansive marsh-lined backwater with mountain views and good potential for bird watching; a channel connects to smaller Horseshoe Pond for additional canoeing and kayaking.
East Branch Ausable River The not-so-tranquil East Branch has some great spring paddling with Class II water and a tricky Class III boulder patch. You'll pass quickly through a scenic valley lined with high peaks and meadows. In the summer, when the water is too shallow for paddling, you'll see mostly anglers on a deceptively quiet river.
East Branch Sacandaga River This eight-mile section has a gentle drop with some fun Class II water. You will need to take out at the unrunnable Griffin Falls, a cascading drop of 20 feet.
Everton Falls Preserve Above the waterfall a winding nine-mile flatwater traverses a broad scenic marsh. Paddle this canoe and kayak route upstream as far as you wish into this remote and seldom visited Adirondack scenic area. Public access to this waterway was expanded in 1999.
Fish Pond to Clamshell Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Fish Pond to Little Fish Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Fish Pond to Little Long Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Follensby Clear Pond Paddling Distance: 3 miles. Access to canoe route via launch sites on Follensby Clear Pond off Route 30 or from Polliwog Pond on Floodwood Road. You won't find an easier "pond-hopping" paddling experience than this one. All the carries are extemely short; you can practically see from lake to lake. Follensby Clear Pond is a beautiful Adirondack pond with numerous campsites found along its shore and on islands. The loop passes through a series of interesting and scenic ponds: Follensby Clear Pond/Polliwog Pond/Horseshoe Pond. To extend your canoe or kayak outing, carry .2 mile to Fish Creek and explore that area. You can also paddle under Route 30 and through Spider Creek Passage into Fish Creek Ponds. From there you can paddle through a passage that leads out into Upper Saranac Lake or you can paddle clockwise through Fish Creek Ponds and then up Fish Creek returning via the .2 mile carry.
Forked Lake The shores are mostly privately owned and undeveloped. State land borders the southeast shore, and the east and west end of this 7-mile lake. The downstream route through to Long Lake is a mix of flat and fast water and carries.
Francis Lake A beautiful 120-acre lake surrounded with spruce and fir. Easy access off Stillwater Road. Primitive campsites near put-in site and on southern shore.
Fulton Chain of Lakes The famous 16-mile Fulton Chain is a heavily traveled route. From First Lake to Fifth Lake the waterway is continuous and lined with summer cottages. Two carries connect the remaining lakes which are less-developed and have several campsites and leantos. At the edge of Eighth Lake, a one-mile carry connects you to Raquette Lake and northern routes.
Great Chazy River The last 20 mile section of this 46 mile river is good for paddling. A downstream float would start at Mooers and extend to King Bay. Expect some motorboat traffic from Lake Champlain.
Green Pond to Little Long Pond (east) Carry Yes, there are two Little Long Ponds in the St. Regis Canoe Area!
Hatch Brook Paddling Distance: 9 miles. Waterway access is from bridge on Pond Road (County Route 27)Canoe this route all summer! A swift current propels you down this nine-mile flatwater cruise through a marsh and varied scenery to a take-out above Chasm Falls. At the junction with the Salmon River, a half-mile upstream paddle is possible. Scenic side trips include Indian Lake, Mountain View Lake and its inlet, which is canoeable for about three miles. High Falls is a short hike from the road.
Hoel Pond (access to St. Regis Canoe Area) Hoel Pond, strictly speaking, is not part of the St. Regis Canoe Area. However, this Adirondack pond provides easy access to that canoe and kayak area. Parking for the canoe launch is off of Hoel Pond Rd. Take Floodwood Road off of Rt. 30, southwest of Saranac Inn. Hoel Pond Road takes a right through the golf course. From the canoe launch, paddle across the pond and to the west of a headland for an easy carry into Turtle Pond. When water is high enough, you can float through this culvert under the old railroad bridge. If water levels are too high, carry up and over the embankment. You may paddle from Turtle Pond into Slang Pond and then carry into Long Pond (short) or Clamshell Pond (a long one).
Hudson River From North River to North Creek (five miles) the river flows gently with some Class II rapids which gives you time to relax and enjoy the scenery. Over the next 18 miles to its junction with the Schroon River, the Hudson resumes some of its former gusto with exciting Class III rapids and several drops over ledges.
Indian Lake This 14-mile waterway is just one of the many lakes in the Adirondacks where you can enjoy island camping. Sites are also located on sheltered bays of the lake. Snowy Mountain's rugged cliffs stand out above the western shore. The view from Baldface is worth the short 1.25-mile hike that starts from the lake in Norman's Cove.
Jessup River A nice side trip while in the Indian Lake area, this small meandering stream is an interesting four-mile cruise which may involve lifting over log jams or beaver dams. It is best canoed at higher water levels in the spring. There's a picnic area and short trail to a waterfall just prior to entering Indian Lake.
Kit Fox Pond to Nellie Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Kunjamuk River A round trip of seven miles along this winding river may require more time than you think. Paddling up to Elm Lake, your turn around point, requires lifting over several beaver dams. The first four miles of the Sacandaga River can be incorporated into this trip. It is a beautiful stillwater channel which can be paddled in either direction.
Lake Champlain A sea kayak is eminently suitable for travel on Lake Champlain; however small vessels of any kind should avoid this large lake on all but the calmest days. Getting caught on the water in a small kayak or open canoe on a rough, windy day is a life-threatening situation. So watch the weather and pick your day carefully. Remain close to the shore and in the sheltered bays of the western shore. Take advantage of the morning and evening calms, and paddle from south to north with the prevailing winds. Taking these words of caution into consideration, it is possible to find the perfect day to paddle short sections of the Lake Champlain shore. One of the more scenic cruises is from Westport around Split Rock Point to Essex, or to the mouth of the Boquet. The route offers dramatic views of the sheer palisades that rise from the water at Split Rock Mountain; there is little space for emergency landings. Start from Essex for a shorter round-trip cruise to Split Rock Point. The lake's maximum depth of 400 feet is found just off this point. Explore the waters in sheltered Willsboro Bay, or paddle out to state-owned Schuyler Island (about 1 mile). Several campsites can be found along the island's rocky shore but there is also poison ivy so be careful. ADD TO TRIP PLANNER
Lake Champlain - North Lake Champlain is a big lake and paddlers should take precautions before planning to paddle on these potentially rough waters. Avoid the wind by traveling early or late in the day. Roads parallel the lake and boat launch sites are numerous along Lake Champlain's northern shor. Beautiful, state-owned Valcour Island is a popular stop-over on the lake with its many bays, campsites and 7.5 miles of trails. Put in at the Peru Boat Launch site. The sheltered waters near Point Au Roche may also be interesting to explore by sea kayak.
Lake George Situated between high, forested mountains, Lake George has long been a favorite vacation destination for water lovers. Its crystal clear water is mostly spring fed and a wealth of islands and small bays invite the intimate exploration possible only by canoe and kayak. This is a large lake, 32 miles long, and it might best be explored by sea kayak, over the course of several days. Resorts and services of all kinds line the shore, and camping is available on 50 state-owned islands. For the long distance tripper, there is a historic portage through the streets of Ticonderoga and down the La Chute River to Lake Champlain.
Lake Kushaqua to Osgood Pond A 12-mile canoe and kayak route from Lake Kushaqua to Osgood Pond traverses an interesting group of Adirondack lakes, channels and one .75-mile canoe carry. Take time to explore the remote three-mile stillwater outlet of Osgood. A unique canal connects Osgood to Church Pond at Paul Smiths. Some of the channels are shallow and wading may be necessary at lower water levels. You can extend this paddling trip by carrying to Lower St. Regis Lake. From here myriad scenic waterways and routes await the adventurous paddler.
Lake Lila This beautiful lake has 17 campsites, 7 islands, tall white pines and sandy beaches. A .3-mile carry leads from the parking area to the sandy launch site. Climb Frederika Mtn. for a great overview of the area.
Lampson Falls Area This spectacular stretch of the Grass accommodates a range of paddling skills. The first 4.5 miles is winding flatwater, then, at the 40-foot Lampson Falls, the river abruptly changes. Over the next seven miles the river drops 220 feet over nine dramatic cascades and flumes rated up to Class V. To follow is a speedy 4.3 miles of almost continuous Class II rapids. Only experts should try the lower section.
Little Clear Pond (St. Regis Canoe Area access) Waterway access to the start of the "Nine Carries" canoe and kayak route is from the Adirondack Fish Hatchery on the northern side of Rt. 30, southwest of Lake Clear. A dirt truck road turns right off of the fish hatchery road. Bear right for the launch area. From this pond, you may carry to additional waterways, including St. Regis Pond, Grass Pond or Green Pond.
Little Clear Pond to Grass Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Little Clear Pond to Green Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Little Clear Pond to St. Regis Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Little Fish Pond to Little Long Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Little Green Pond (St. Regis Canoe Area) Follow waterway access directions for Little Clear Pond, but instead of bearing right to canoe launch area, continue straight to a parking/launch area. From Little Green you may carry (a short one) to tiny Bone Pond.
Little Long Pond (east) to Bear Pond This Adirondack canoe and kayak route is well east of the one that is near Fish Pond.
Little Long Pond to Kit Fox Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Little Long Pond to Lydia Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Little River This river is a study in contrasts. The lower six miles has technical Class III rapids while the upper 12 miles is a quiet Class I, with some riffles and two short carries. The corridor is lined with balsam fir and marsh.
Little Tupper Lake The William C. Whitney Area includes Little Tupper Lake, Rock Pond and 9 other bodies of water. It was opened to the public in 1998 and has been designated as a Wilderness Area. Explore the beautiful 6-mile-long lake and Rock Pond; camp at 30 designated sites. Anglers will enjoy catch-and-release fishing for native brook trout. An informal, unmarked canoe carry route leads from Rock Pond, linking a series of small ponds and carries, to Lake Lila.
Long Lake The prevailing west to east winds are usually to your back on this 14-mile "long" lake. There are a number of campsites and leantos on state land along the eastern shore, north of Long Lake Village.
Long Pond (St. Regis Canoe Area access) Access to this waterway is gained by parking off of Floodwood Road in pull-off area past East Pine Pond for the short canoe and kayak carry into Long Pond.(There is also a longer carry from the northern end of Floodwood Pond into Long Pond) Floodwood Road heads west off of Rt. 30, southwest of Saranac Inn. It is paved for only a short way. From Long Pond, there are long carries that take you to the Adirondack waterways of Nellie, Bessie, or Mountain Ponds. A short carry takes you to Slang Pond.
Long Pond to Floodwood Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Long Pond to Mountain Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Long Pond to Nellie and Bessie Ponds Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Long Pond to Slang Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Lower Grass River A nice stretch of water for all levels of paddling ability, the entire Lower Grass River from Canton to Massena (36 miles) can be canoed with several short carries along the way.
Lower Hudson River The Lower Hudson is broad and more shallow than the previous sections. The current is a swift Class I but obstacles are few except at lower water levels when sandbars may impede progress down this 17-mile stretch of river. Take out is one mile above the Hadley Luzerne Falls which are dangerous and should not be approached.
Lower Moose River Expert whitewater skills are required for running these 17 miles of demanding Class V+ rapids with colorful names like Froth Hole, Mixmaster and Elevator Shaft.
Lower Osgood River Paddling Distance: 9 miles. Access to this scenic waterway is via Meacham Lake Outlet. This small Adirondack river meanders beside a forested esker and through a wide marsh. Starting from Meacham Lake's outlet, paddle upstream and then downstream. Look for the huge Eagle's nest as you enter the Osgood River from Meacham's southern end.
Lower Oswegatchie River A gentle section of the Oswegatchie starts near Gouverneur and flows 65 miles to Ogdensburg where it flows into the St. Lawrence River. The river is wide and slow-moving here as it passes beside low-rolling hills, rock ledges, marshes and pasture land. Scenic cliffs line the shore near Oxbow. There are carries at the dams. Most of the rapids can be portaged or run by experienced paddlers. Numerous access points permit trips of varying lengths.
Lower Raquette River Closer to its confluence with the St. Lawrence River are 14.5 miles between Raymondville to Raquette River Village, which can be paddled when water levels are adequate. There are several sets of rapids which can be run or carried around.
Lower Schroon River The Lower Schroon from Schroon Lake to the Hudson (27 miles) is a mixture of long flatwater stretches and exciting Class III whitewater, such as "The Big Drop," which you may want to scout before running. Adjacent roads provide easy access at points along the way, but go unnoticed while on the tree-lined, secluded river.
Lower West Branch Sacandaga River At the right water levels this can be an exciting eight-mile run with up to Class III rapids. Spring is the best time for attempting this steep gradient of 55 feet per mile.
Lows Lake/Bog River Flow Just getting into Lows Lake is an adventure. From the lower dam, this 11-mile paddle, with one short carry at the upper dam, traverses a beautiful narrow waterway. The wide expanse of Lows Lake then opens up with marshes to the south and a backdrop of rugged mountains to the north. Islands and bays provide refuge when it's windy. There are 39 designated campsites. For the ambitious, a three-mile carry at the west end of the lake leads to the Upper Oswegatchie River. Your reward is huge white pines, vast wilderness and an 18-mile downstream cruise to Inlet.
Madawaska Flow Paddling Distance: 6 miles. Waterway access is from Blue Mountain Road via Quebec Brook. Paddle and portage up Quebec Brook to access the remote and scenic marsh at its upper end, just opened to the public in 1999.
Massawepie Area Pond-hop among the many small lakes near Massawepie Lake or paddle 8.5 miles thru the Massawepie Mire and Grass River Flow. (No public use of the area from June 15 to August 31.)
Middle Branch Moose River As you float down through this beautiful woodland valley the Moose gradually picks up its tempo with some exciting Class III rapids. There is a carry at a low dam and at Nelson Falls, a Class IV drop.
Middle Branch Oswegatchie River This spectacular branch of the Oswegatchie plunges over waterfalls and through a rocky gorge. A drop of 90 feet in the first two miles gets the adrenalin going with an exciting mix of waterfalls and Class III rapids. Scouting is necessary to determine possible runs or carries around impassable sections, such as the narrow Sluice Falls. The second half of this 12-mile run is a calm Class I flatwater that winds through marsh and woodland.
Moss Lake This small lake, nestled at the foot of a steep mountain, has seven designated campsites along its eastern shore and is encircled by an old bridle trail.
Nellie Pond to Bessie Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
North Branch Grass River This 16.5-mile paddle is a nice mix of rapids and flatwater. What starts as a meandering river in a marsh quickly changes to Class II rapids. Class IV rapids and a moderate- sized double hydraulic are met before reaching the 50-foot Harper Falls, where a carry is required.
North Branch Moose River Along this slow-moving, meandering stretch of river you'll travel 11 miles in complete wilderness isolation. Wildlife and birds are abundant along this branch of the Moose River.
Ochre Pond to Fish Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Ochre Pond to Mud Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
Oswegatchie River From Newton Falls to Hailesboro the river drops more than 970 feet. There are scenic sections, but some areas are difficult to access. There are numerous Class II - VI rapids and impassable ledges and dams. Water levels may fluctuate due to dam releases.
Piseco Lake Area Piseco Lake offers some interesting side trips, such as a paddle up Fall Stream to Fall Lake. Only two miles further upstream, and several beaver dams later, is the remote Vly Lake. Big Bay is accessible from Pisceco Lake and from a parking area on Route 10.
Raquette Lake The many bays of this large lake will provide hours of exploration; keep your eye out for some of the Great Camps. Explore the two-mile channel of South Inlet and Browns Tract Inlet where a one-mile carry that connects to Eighth Lake on the Fulton Chain. From the northeast outlet bay, a half-mile carry leads to Forked Lake.
Raquette River A This Adirondack canoe and kayak route will take you from Long Lake to Tupper Lake (30 miles). This waterway meanders between sandy wooded banks. Traveling with the current, this leisurely paddle allows time for fishing and bird watching. Campsites and leantos appear at intervals along the way. Note the carry at Raquette Falls. The outlet of Stony Creek Ponds provides access to Upper Saranac Lake and routes north.
Raquette River B The 17-mile stretch from Piercefield to Carry Falls Reservoir offers the Raquette's most exciting whitewater. Starting at the dam near Piercefield, the river winds north through a series of rapids and over two waterfalls. State land borders most of this area and carry trails skirt some of the harder sections. Water level is critical and it can fluctuate due to dam releases.
Rich Lake and Harris Lake Start on the public beach at either lake for a scenic 7.5-mile roundtrip cruise. The flatwater channel between the lakes has some riffles and a carry. Do not proceed beyond the Route 28N bridge or you will be committed to running the turbulent Hudson River Gorge.
Sacandaga Lake Area These two large headwater lakes are connected by a short navigable channel. From Sacandaga Lake you can paddle up to Mud Lake, or carry to beautiful Fawn Lake, which is surrounded by state land and has several good campsites.
Sacandaga River Start your trip below the three impassable waterfalls which can be viewed from Route 30. The next 13 miles is an exciting slalom of almost continuous fast whitewater with up to Class III rapids. Lake Algonquin appears four miles into the run. After a carry around the outlet dam, the race resumes. The route is best done at high water levels.
Sand Pond-Mud Pond Area Sand Pond was added to the forest preserve in 1999 as part of the Croghan Tract. Access is via logging roads and a .2 mile carry from the parking area. Its marshy shores support an abundance of waterfowl and wildlife. Narrow corridors of stream, best paddled at high water levels, connect Long Pond, Rock Pond and Mud Pond. On the east end of Mud Pond is a newly installed handicapped accessible dock, outhouse and parking area. Below Mud Pond there are two waterfalls. A short carry trail leads to the base of the first waterfall, and then there's a .7-mile paddle to the takeout at a footbridge above the second waterfall. A steep trail leads to its base.
Saranac Lakes Chain From the top of Upper Saranac to the east end of Lower Saranac is a 17.5-mile canoe and kayak route with only one half-mile carry. There are several leantos and many campsites along the shore and on islands. A fee is charged for campsites on Lower and Middle Saranac Lakes. This popular Adirondack waterway continues through Oseetah Lake into the Village of Saranac Lake, where the Saranac River begins.
Saranac River The Saranac River starts out as slow-moving flatwater with one section of up to Class lll water at Permanaent Rapids just before Franklin Falls Pond. The adjacent road provides waterway access to the river before the rapids. A .4-mile carry connects you to Union Falls Pond.
Saranac River2 From Union Falls Pond, this Adirondack canoe and kayak route drops rapidly. Class I-II rapids in the first 4 miles are followed by a Class V drop at Teft Pond Falls. The carry is adjacent to private property. The next five miles include a complex series of Class II-III ledges, drops and hydraulics which demand advanced paddling skills and ample water. It is rocky and there is a wide fluctuation in the water level due to dam releases.
Silver Staircase This 7-mile Adirondack waterway of nearly continuous whitewater requires advanced canoe and kayak skills to maneuver through long and complex rapids rated up to Class IV. Scouting is not always possible.
Slang Pond through Turtle Pond to Hoel Pond There is no canoe carry between Slang and Turtle Ponds, just a narrow passage of waterway, then a paddling trip through a culvert under a railroad bridge to cross from Turtle Pond into Hoel Pond (or up and over the embankment, if water levels are too high).
South Branch Grass River The newly acquired Tooley Pond Tract includes Tooley Pond and a long section of the S. Branch Grass River. The upper section to Rainbow Falls is suitable for canoeing with carry trails around several waterfalls. Access is via Spruce Mountain Road. A carry trail above Rainbow Falls leads to parking on Tooley Pond Road. The numerous waterfalls below Rainbow Falls make it more suitable for expert kayakers and shoreline users.
St. Regis Falls Flow / East Branch Paddling Distance: 6.4 miles. Waterway access is via a public picnic area/beach on south shore. A quiet flatwater extends upstream for 6 miles above the dam. The East Branch St. Regis River below Everton Falls is passable at higher water levels. It is a challenging whitewater run with rapids and drops which may require scouting.
St. Regis Pond to Green Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
St. Regis Pond to Ochre Pond Carry (St. Regis Canoe Area)
St. Regis River Portage into this remote 16-mile winding flatwater. This Adirondack canoe and kayak area is part of the Santa Clara Tract, first opened to public in 1999.
St. Regis River/Santa Clara Flow Paddling Distance: 5.1 miles. Waterway access is from Blue Mountain Road in St. Regis Falls. The St. Regis River above Santa Clara Flow was opened to the public in 1999. The canoe launch site is off Blue Mtn. Road. The downstream paddle has one carry just before you enter Santa Clara Flow. Paddle down through the winding backwater to the state boat launch site just off Rte. 458.
St. Regis Wilderness Canoe Area This is a pond-hopper's paradise. Many carries are short and most canoe and kayak routes can be done as an unencumbered day trip. The classic "Seven Carries Route" is a 9 mile trek from Little Clear Pond to Paul Smiths, traversing 10 lakes and ponds. Various loop-trips start from Follensby Clear, Floodwood and Fish Creek ponds. Short carries connect this popular group of small Adirondack ponds and channels. You can expand these loops by carrying north into Long Pond and Hoel Pond. A loop around the St. Regis Lakes, which requires a .6-mile carry, offers the opportunity to view several Adirondack Great Camps and take a side trip into a peaceful waterway known as little Black Pond. You may need more time and a lightweight canoe for the "Nine Carries Route." Starting from either Hoel Pond (1.5 miles of carries) or Little Clear Pond (2.5 miles of carries), your ultimate goal is the cluster of ponds near Fish Pond.
Stillwater Reservoir The reservoir (nine miles long) is surrounded by wilderness areas on state land and has 46 designated campsites on its many isolated bays, islands and scenic points. The area is known for its large loon population. Summer weekends are very busy with motorboat traffic.
The Chateaugay Lakes These two large lakes, connected by a wide channel, are 10.5 miles long. This area has long been a popular summer resort. Check out Bluff Point with its adjacent shallow reef or paddle three miles up South Inlet. Below the outlet, the river drops rapidly with several falls, including the spectacular 120-foot High Falls.
The Reservoirs This 27-mile stretch of the Raquette is the setting of the largest inland hydroelectric installation in New York. A New York power company maintains carry routes between reservoirs, as well as picnic areas, boat ramps, beaches and campgrounds. Below these reservoirs, travel on the river continues with a series of small reservoirs at Hannawa, Potsdam, Norwood and Norfolk.
Tupper Lake A shallow marsh connects this canoe and kayak region in the Adirondacks which consists of Tupper Lake, Simon and Raquette Ponds. State land on Tupper Lake's western shore has a lean-to and campsites. Above Bog River Falls you'll find a 2-mile stillwater paddle.
Upper Hudson River and Hudson River Gorge The 12 miles from Newcomb to the Indian River is a beautiful remote stretch (bordered by private land) with Class III rapids at Ord Falls. This otherwise inviting section of river leads directly into the turbulent Hudson River Gorge which packs in a series of difficult Class V rapids with powerful hydraulics, souse holes and high, standing waves. These 13 miles are for expert paddlers only. Several outfitters offer rafting trips through the Gorge. Periodic releases from Indian Lake maintain high water levels through June, and in September and October. Open canoes should not be used here except by experts at mid-summer water levels.
Upper Schroon River The 15-mile stretch from North Hudson to Schroon Lake is an easy Class I flatwater cruise with one carry at the four-foot Schroon Falls. Wildlife sightings are frequent as you travel along this slowly meandering river. Beautiful Schroon Lake opens up at journey's end, revealing mountain views in all directions.
Upper West Branch Sacandaga River This Class I flatwater can be paddled in either direction, making a nice round trip. Both Chub and Trout Lake have navigable outlets and are worthy side trips. Below this point, the river drops rapidly through a remote gorge and two impassible waterfalls.
West Branch Ausable River These eight miles of tranquil water flowing amidst densely wooded banks have some Class I riffles and one carry. Spring water levels are best. Don't miss your take out just prior to Monument Falls. An unrunnable boulder-filled gorge follows which is better viewed from Route 86.
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