Upstate New York offers a variety of kayak rental options, catering to both beginners and experienced paddlers. From the serene waters of the Finger Lakes to the picturesque Adirondack Mountains, there are numerous destinations where you can enjoy a peaceful and scenic kayaking experience.
What are the Best Kayak Rental Options in Upstate New York?
1. BayCreek Paddling Center (Rochester)
- Location: 1099 Empire Blvd, Rochester, NY 14609
- Rental Options: Kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards
- Pricing and Duration: Prices vary, but typically around $10-$20 per hour for kayaks. Full-day rentals are also available.
- Packages: No specific packages mentioned, but they offer rentals for various durations.
- Launch Location: Irondequoit Bay, known for its calm waters suitable for beginners.
2. Kayak Shak (Saratoga Springs)
- Location: 251 County Rd 67, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
- Rental Options: Kayaks
- Pricing and Duration: Prices are not specified, but they offer rentals for various durations.
- Packages: No specific packages mentioned, but they focus on inspiring people to get out on the water.
- Launch Location: Fishcreek Marina in Saratoga County, known for smooth waters.
3. Seneca Lake Kayak (Watkins Glen)
- Location: Near Watkins Glen, NY
- Rental Options: Kayaks
- Pricing and Duration: Prices are not specified, but they offer rentals for various durations.
- Packages: No specific packages mentioned, but they are a popular choice for exploring Seneca Lake.
- Launch Location: Seneca Lake, which offers beautiful waters and scenic views.
4. Lake George Kayak Co. (Bolton Landing)
- Location: Near the Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing
- Rental Options: Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards
- Pricing and Duration: Prices vary, but they offer rentals for various durations, including lessons for first-timers.
- Packages: Guided tours and lessons available.
- Launch Location: Lake George, known for its 170 islands and scenic Adirondack mountains.
5. Mirror Lake Boat Rental (Lake Placid)
- Location: Lake Placid
- Rental Options: Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards
- Pricing and Duration: Prices are not specified, but they offer rentals for various durations.
- Packages: Special events like stand-up paddleboard yoga at sunset.
- Launch Location: Mirror Lake, offering stunning views of the High Peaks.
What are the Top Places to Kayak in Upstate New York?
1. Taughannock Falls State Park
- Location: Part of the Finger Lakes region
- Description: Flat waters of Cayuga Lake, hiking trails, and a 200+ foot waterfall
- Launch Location: Multiple launch sites within the park
2. Saint Regis Canoe Area
- Location: Adirondack Mountains
- Description: Remote wilderness with over 18,000 acres and many lakes
- Launch Location: Various lakes within the area
3. Beaver Lake Nature Center
- Location: Onondaga County
- Description: Green environment, cheap rentals ($10 per hour), and educational opportunities
- Launch Location: Beaver Lake
4. Cranberry Lake
- Location: Westchester County
- Description: Quiet park with a nature reserve, watershed, swamplands, and forest
- Launch Location: Cranberry Lake
5. Waneta-Lamoka Wildlife Management Area
- Location: Between Lamoka Lake and Waneta Lake
- Description: Popular for hunting, fishing, birding, canoeing, and kayaking
- Launch Location: Multiple launch sites between the lakes
6. Buffalo River
- Location: Erie County
- Description: Urban kayaking experience with street art, food, and entertainment options
- Launch Location: Buffalo Riverworks
7. Seneca Lake
- Location: Schuyler County
- Description: Beautiful waters near Watkins Glen, suitable for exploring
- Launch Location: Various launch sites around Seneca Lake
8. Lake George
- Location: Adirondack Mountains
- Description: Paddle around 170 islands, historic steamboats, and scenic mountains
- Launch Location: Near the Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing
9. Mirror Lake
- Location: Lake Placid
- Description: Sparkling water, loons, and panoramic views of the High Peaks
- Launch Location: Mirror Lake
10. Oneida Lake
- Location: Thousand Islands-Seaway region
- Description: Largest lake entirely within New York State, warm waters in summer
- Launch Location: Cleveland, NY
What are the Schedules and Timings for Kayak Rentals in Upstate New York?
- Season: Generally, spring and fall are the best times for kayaking due to pleasant temperatures and scenery. However, some parks have limited seasons due to harsh winters or flooding. Always check the park website for current conditions.
- Rental Hours: Vary by location, but typically available during daylight hours. Some places may offer guided tours or special events at specific times.
How to Find Kayak Rentals Near You in Upstate New York?
- Online Resources: Websites like paddling.com can help you find launch sites and rental facilities.
- Local Outfitters: Contact local outfitters directly for rental information and to book in advance.