South Creek to Second Pond

8 miles

Medium (3-5 hours)

A classic paddle that has it all from creeks, panoramic views, beaches, islands and even a river with locks to navigate.

PRICE & BOOKING

Boat/board rental:

Transport (to start):

Transport (end):

What's included:

Want a guide?:

from $50 (see our choice of craft below)

$55

$30

Canoe, Kayak or SUP/ paddle / transport / PFD (life vest) / waterproof map

Take the guesswork out of planning and navigation and have one of our friendly, experienced NY State Licensed Outdoor Guides accompany you. Rates from $180 for a half day (up to 4 hours) or $325 for a full day (up to 8 hours).

This trip involves transport and so please contact us to book.

CALL US

BOOKING INQUIRY FORM

TRIP OVERVIEW

This trip begins at South Creek boat launch where you paddle out into Middle Saranac Lake to begin the journey. Enjoy the spectacular views and discover an amazing, secluded sandy beach before navigating your way into the Saranac River and continuing on. You travel through beautiful marshland for a while before coming to the Upper Locks. Have fun operating these manually operated locks to travel between the different water levels before continuing on further up the river. Don't worry, you can just carry your boats around if that all sounds too technical! Before too long the views will open up again as you paddle into Lower Saranac Lake. Explore the beautiful little islands in the middle of the lake and maybe stop for a rest and a swim before heading back through First Pond and end your journey at Second Pond boat launch. Truly an amazing trip that you will never forget.

We will meet at the store, check that you have everything you need and then you will follow our transport shuttle out to Second Pond boat launch and park your car there so it is waiting for you when you are done. We'll then all continue on in the shuttle to South Creek where you will begin your trip.

Once there, our driver will prepare the equipment for you, discuss the map and points of interest and provide a few paddling tips. You will have all day to complete the trip and then when you are finished can just lift the boats/boards out of the water and put them to one side (along with all the other rental equipment). Give us a call to let us know you are back and then you are free to leave (no need to wait).

If you are interested in camping at this location we specialize in providing all the information and services you need. Check the Planning section of our site for more information on Saranac Lake Islands Campground. Don't miss our unique Site Finder which has pictures and details of all 87 sites!

TRIP DETAILS

Difficulty:

Moderate

Distance:

8 miles

Duration:

Medium (3-5 hours)

Area:

Saranac River Watershed

Trip begins at:

South Creek Boat Launch

Trip ends at:

Second Pond Boat Launch

Trip type:

Waterways:

Point A to B

South Creek, Middle Saranac Lake, Saranac River, Lower Saranac Lake

Rivers/Creeks:

Small ponds:

Large lakes:

Motors allowed?:

Swimming?:

Carrying required?:

Views:

Yes

Excellent

Trips have been categorized based on typical experience. May vary depending on your abilities and the conditions.

CHOICE OF CRAFT

Recreational kayak ($50/$55)

Plastic recreational kayaks that offer a great balance of performance and stability. Solo or tandem models available.

Lightweight kayak ($75)

Lightweight, composite kayaks that offer superior comfort and performance. Solo models only.

Touring kayak ($60)

Efficient plastic touring kayak suitable for longer trips and more experienced paddlers. Solo models only.

Kids kayak ($45)

Smaller kayak suitable for childen. Solo models only.

Recreational canoe ($50/$55)

Plastic recreational canoes that offer a great balance of performance and stability. Solo or tandem models available.

Lightweight canoe ($65/$68)

Lightweight, composite canoes that are easier to transport and carry. Solo or tandem models available.

Pack canoe ($65)

Lightweight Pack canoe that is perfect for exploring the lakes and ponds of the Adirondacks. Solo models only.

Lightweight 3 person canoe ($80)

Lightweight, composite canoes that are easier to transport and carry. 3 person canoe. Minnesota III (length 20ft)

Lightweight 4 person canoe ($85)

Lightweight, composite canoes that are easier to transport and carry. 4 person canoe. Minnesota 4 (length 23ft)

* models may differ from what is shown

* prices are per calendar day. NY Sales Tax and 3% booking fee excluded.

PADDLING TIPS

If you are new to paddling adventures here's some helpful suggestions to help make sure you have a great time. This is a water sport with some effort required and exposure to the elements being part of the experience.

COMFORT & SAFETY

1. Be prepared to get wet. At the very least you will get your feet wet getting in and out of the boat. We have dry bags available to rent or buy in all sizes to help keep your stuff dry too.

2. Check the weather and plan for the conditions. The sun is stronger on the water so sun protection is a must (sunscreen, hats, long sleeves etc.). Bug spray is always a good idea too, especially earlier in the season.

3. Stay fueled and hydrated. It can be pretty tiring being out on the water so bring snacks/ lunch and plenty to drink to make sure you have enough gas in the tank for the whole trip.

ON THE WATER

1. Stay within your comfort zone. Keep closer to shore while you build up confidence or when dealing with more challenging conditions.

2. Be mindful of motorized traffic. You have the right of way but motor boats create waves and have to share the waterways with you too. In some areas red & green bouys will mark the boat channel for motor boats. We recommend paddling just outside of the channel as this will keep you clear of the motor boats and also the obstacles that are causing the need for the bouys there too. When paddling through motor boat wake or in choppier conditions maintaining forward paddling will provide much more stability than sitting still.

3. Monitor weather conditions throughout your trip. You should get off the water immediately in an active thunderstorm. Wind can also have a big impact on your paddling experience. Be especially conscious of the wind pushing you along on the way out as it means the paddle back will require more effort. Plan accordingly.

4. In an emergency put your safety first. Problems are very rare but it's good to have a plan just in case. Get to shore as quickly as you can and call 911 if you are hurt, in danger or stuck. If you can't call then try and flag someone down to help you. If you are able to safely get your equipment to shore, re-board and continue then great. Although it is possible to self-rescue on the water it is difficult and only possible after expert tuition and practice so it should not be attempted by less experienced paddlers.

Please note:

Full payment must be made before a trip or rental can proceed
NY Sales Tax (8%) and a 3% booking fee will be added additionally to the prices shown
We ask that you please look after our equipment. You are responsible for any damage.
Each participant must complete a waiver and agree to our booking policy before a rental or trip can proceed.