Canoeing the Adirondacks

A whisper-quiet canoe ride through the Adirondacks reveals unspoiled streams and lakes that have remained essentially unchanged since they were first used by Native Americans. Canoe country in the Adirondacks extends from Old Forge northwest through numerous lakes and rivers to Tupper Lake, Paul Smiths and Saranac Lake.

One of the most popular routes begins at Old Forge and takes you through the Fulton Chain of Lakes to Raquette Lake. From there you can continue north to the Saranac Lakes through Long Lake and then on to Tupper, or go east to Blue Mountain Lake. There are many campsites along the route. Marinas and sea-plane services offer transportation back to the point of origin.

Nick's Lake, a small body of water with pristine beaches and forested shores just two miles from Old Forge, is good for novice paddlers. The north branch of the Moose is more of a challenge -- on a map it looks like a long, tangled skein of rope. At Lake Lila canoeists find a large loon population, an active osprey population and five islands. Wherever you travel, you will find boat liveries, marinas and other businesses where you can rent a canoe and receive guidance on launching points and where to go.

For navigational information about canoeing in the Adirondacks, contact the Department of Environmental Conservation, Preserve Protection and Management, 50 Wolf Road, Albany, NY 12233-4255, 518/457-7433.

For "Canoeing the Adirondacks," contact the Adirondack Regional Tourism Council, 518/846-8016. For information about Old Forge, contact the Central Adirondack Association, 315/369-6983.