The Saranac River offers a calm, winding river with views of the High Peaks, great for a half-day paddle meandering along Route 3 towards Bloomingdale. It flows along the western and northern borders of the McKenzie Mountain Wilderness.

Put-ins are located at the Saranac River Hand Launch or the Pine Street Hand Launch in Saranac Lake. A second car can be parked at the Moose Pond trail head on Route 3 near Bloomingdale.

As you paddle in and out of the forest, you will be rewarded with views of the high peaks. Take out at the Moose Pond bridge and hike the 1.3-mile trail into Moose Pond for an added adventure. Be careful pulling up to the hilly take out area.

Moose Pond is great for fishing and camping as well. The 140-acre pond contains brook trout, lake trout, rainbow trout, landlocked salmon and smallmouth bass. There are seven designated primitive tent sites along the shore.

Saranac Lake Hand Launch is located off the Dorsey Street Parking Lot in the Village of Saranac Lake (44.3258°N, 74.1324°W)

Pine Street Hand Launch is located along Pine Street on the west side of the Pine Street Bridge (44.3307°N, 74.1260°W)

Moose Pond Parking Area is located off State Route 3 (44.3755°N, 74.0870°W)

Featured paddles are recommended by DEC. Photo of Saranac River paddler courtesy DEC.