New York's Adirondacks Perfect for Exploring by Boat

Throughout the summer season, find miles of uncrowded waterways perfect for exploration and family fun. Fish deep waters, go swimming, or tubing in the pristine natural beauty of the Adirondacks. The Adirondack Regional Tourism Council highlights the top three destinations for sailing, boating, paddling and stand-up paddle boarding, aka “SUP,” for summer 2012.

Sailing Around the Adirondacks

1. Lake George – One of the top places to go sailing in the Adirondacks, the LaLake George Region offers an abundance of marinas, boat launches and family fun. Sail between Lake George's islands, drop anchor and spend an afternoon swimming or exploring secluded coves.
2. Lake Champlain – Offers scenic sailing on some of the deepest waters in the Adirondacks. Sail along the steep cliffs, and enjoy annual Adirondack events, such as military re-enactments of the Battle of Plattsburgh.
3. Piseco Lake – Is located in the heart of the Adirondacks and is surrounded by wilderness. Sail along a designated course or set out on your own and discover the lake's charming vistas and exciting waters. Stay at Adirondack campgrounds such as Point Comfort and enjoy fine fishing and all the water sports you can handle.

Boating New York Waterways

1. Saranac Lake Islands – Upper, Middle and Lower Saranac Lakes offer great fishing on three scenic and secluded Adirondack Lakes. Find Adirondack island camping sites or simply spend the day fishing, swimming and relaxing on one of three classic lakes.
2. Raquette Lake – Venture into the Adirondack Wild with a boat tour around scenic Raquette Lake. The 100 mile shoreline boasts stunning Adirondack Great Camps, as well as world-class fishing.
3. St. Lawrence River – Situated at the northern border of the Adirondack Region, the St. Lawrence provides incredible sailing that spans borders and states. Travel along New York's historic waterway and discover unique Adirondack attractions, such as scuba diving to sunken shipwrecks.

Adirondack Paddling Routes

1. St. Regis Canoe Wilderness Area – As the only designated canoe area of its kind in New York State, the St. Regis area holds the distinction of offering some of the most pristine paddling opportunities found in the Adirondack Park's six-million acres. Paddle the popular Nine Carries or Seven Carries routes, and find backcountry camping sites with access to Adirondack hiking trails.
2. Oswegatchie River – At 137 miles, the Oswegatchie is one of the longest and wildest rivers in New York State. One of the most popular paddles on the river is called the “Main Branch,” which travels 18 miles from the Partlow Mill Dam to Inlet.
3. Black River – Located in the Tughill Region of the Adirondacks, the Black River is the best place to go for a leisurely paddle. Find ample opportunities for tubing and fishing.

Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in the Adirondack Lakes Region

1. Mirror Lake – Perfect for beginners, Mirror Lake provides a smooth surface and is close to several SUP rental places. Get your sea-legs and join other SUPers for an early morning paddle.
2. Lake Colby – The Adirondack Lakes Region provides the perfect conditions for stand up paddle boarding technique. Rentals can be found in both Saranac Lake and Lake Placid.
3. Long Lake – Stretching for 14 miles through the heart of the Adirondacks, Long Lake provides ample room to develop your SUP skills. Beginners should keep close to shore and wear a life jacket.

For more information about paddling in the Adirondacks, download a FREE Adirondack Waterways guide.

Where to Stay: Adirondacks Luxury Hotels & Resorts