Places to Kayak in New York

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The state of New York offers a diverse range of kayaking destinations, from the serene Adirondack lakes to the urban waterways of New York City. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy the beauty of New York’s waterways.

What are the Popular Kayaking Spots in the Adirondacks?

The Adirondacks, a vast wilderness area in upstate New York, is a premier destination for kayaking enthusiasts. Some of the most popular spots include:

  1. Saint Regis Canoe Area: This area features over 150 bodies of water, including lakes and ponds, and is known for its serene and motorboat-free environment, making it ideal for kayaking and canoeing.

  2. Saranac Lake Islands: This unique campground offers 87 boat-in-only campsites on lower Saranac Lake, allowing paddlers to explore the lake and its surrounding waterways.

  3. Rollins Pond Campground: With 287 campsites, many directly on the water, Rollins Pond is a paddler’s paradise, offering a 400-acre pond for exploration, fishing, and hiking.

  4. Moose River: Starting from a remote forest service road, this lazy paddle brings you down the river into Old Forge, with a small dam/chute along the way.

  5. Golden Beach Campground: Located on Raquette Lake, this campground offers 207 campsites and access to explore the lake, its islands, and surrounding wilderness areas.

  6. Black River: This river offers a variety of paddling experiences, from calm waters to whitewater rapids, spanning over 114 miles with multiple launch sites.

  7. Essex Chain Lakes: Comprised of twelve lakes and ponds, this area opened to the public in 2014 and is ideal for paddlers, campers, and hikers, offering a remote and scenic experience.

  8. Northern Forest Canoe Trail: Starting in the Adirondacks, this 740-mile trail extends to Fort Kent, Maine, providing a significant paddling route that traverses rivers, streams, and lakes.

Where Can You Kayak for Free in NYC?

places to kayak in new york

While there are no completely free kayaking spots in New York City, there are several options where you can kayak at minimal or no cost:

  1. Hudson River Greenway: The Hudson River Greenway offers several free or low-cost kayak launch points, though they often require registration or have limited availability.

  2. Jamaica Bay: Jamaica Bay offers free kayaking opportunities, but you may need to bring your own kayak or join a guided tour. Some organizations offer free or low-cost kayaking events and rentals.

  3. Randall’s Island Park: Randall’s Island Park occasionally offers free kayaking events and rentals, especially during the summer months.

What are the Easy Kayaking Locations in New York State for Beginners?

For those new to kayaking, New York State offers several easy and accessible locations:

  1. Mirror Lake, Lake Placid: A small and sheltered lake, Mirror Lake is ideal for beginners, offering calm waters and scenic views, with nearby rental options available.

  2. Lake Flower, Saranac Lake: This lake has moderate motorized traffic but is generally calm and easy to navigate, with Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters offering rentals right at the lake.

  3. Taylor Pond: Located deep in the Adirondack wilderness, Taylor Pond is 4 miles long and covers 813 acres, providing a serene and scenic paddling experience suitable for beginners.

Where are the Kayak Launch Locations and Recommended Tours in New York?

  • Launch Locations:
  • Rollins Pond Campground: Direct access to the pond.
  • Saranac Lake Islands: Access via boat-in-only campsites.
  • Moose River: Launch from a remote forest service road.

  • Black River: Multiple launch sites along the river.

  • Recommended Tours:

  • St. Regis Canoe Outfitters: Offers guided day and overnight trips, rentals, and outfitting packages in the Saint Regis Canoe Area.
  • Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters: Provides rentals and guided tours on Lake Flower in Saranac Lake.

What are the Costs and Schedules for Kayaking in New York?

  • Rental Fees:
  • Rentals can range from $20 to $50 per day, depending on the outfitter and location.

  • For example, Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company and Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters offer rentals starting at around $20 per day.

  • Permits:

  • Some areas may require a permit or registration, especially in state parks. However, many of the popular spots in the Adirondacks do not require permits for kayaking.

  • Best Times to Visit:

  • The best time to visit the Adirondacks for kayaking is from late spring to early fall, avoiding peak black fly season in late May and early June.
  • For NYC, summer months are best for kayaking due to warmer weather and more accessible launch points.

What Safety Considerations Should You Keep in Mind When Kayaking in New York?

  • Water Conditions:
  • Always check the water conditions before paddling, especially on rivers like the Black River, which can have whitewater rapids and changing water levels.

  • Be aware of dams and chutes, such as the one on the Moose River.

  • Weather:

  • Check the weather forecast before heading out, as sudden changes in weather can make paddling hazardous.

  • Black Flies:

  • Be prepared for black flies, especially during peak season in late May and early June. Insect repellent and protective clothing are essential.

Reference:
1. Adirondack Paddling Guide: Canoeing, Kayaking & More
2. Best Spots for Kayaking in the Adirondacks, New York
3. Where to Go Paddling in the Adirondacks: Top Destinations

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