This 4-5 hr trip is a popular day trip from our Saranac Lake Base that is also a great overnight trip. Campsites on these two lakes are part of the Saranac Lake Islands Campground -- all sites are boat access only. Fee charged for overnight campsites. Typically this route is paddled from Middle Saranac to Lower Saranac Lake. There is a small hand-operated lock at the Upper Locks (between Middle Saranac and Lower Saranac) that kids and adults love. There is a lock tender in season. There are numerous places to picnic, including the Middle Saranac Beach and Bluff Island on the Lower Lake. Hike to the top of the Bluff for great views of the lake and the McKenzie Mountain Range.
Notes on the state campground: It is open mid May to mid Oct. when a fee is charged (free other times); to check campsite availability go to www.reserveamerica.com enter the campground name (Saranac Lake Islands), date and number of nights requested.
This best map for this route is the Adirondack Paddler's Map The Saranac Lakes.
The map image above is strictly for the purpose of providing a visual of the canoe route from Middle to Lower Saranac Lake. It is not intended for directional purposes.
