paddling tips  -  boat launch sites
 


Spending an afternoon canoeing can be a fun way to experience nature, get a great workout, and spend time with loved ones. It can also be a dangerous journey, if appropriate safety guidelines are overlooked. Always follow these basic rules. Canoe safety guidelines: avoid accidents and mishaps by gearing up your canoe properly before take off.

WEAR A SAFETY VEST
The importance of wearing safety vests cannot be over-stressed. By law, canoeists must each possess one wearable flotation device. All devices must comply with Federal, State, and local regulations and standards. Life vests must be worn properly, meaning they are tied, zipped or otherwise attached properly to the body for maximum protection.




WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHING
Always wear shoes. Rocks, rough terrain and river bottoms present serious hazards to boaters without the proper attire. Nearly 90% of all boating injuries are attributed to lack of proper footwear. Other canoe safe clothing includes hats, extra dry clothing, towels, and layered items which can easily be removed.

KNOW THE WEATHER FORECAST
Be a responsible boater by cluing in on the weather forecast. Note sky conditions, air and water temperature and anticipated precipitation. A knowledgeable boater is a safe boater.

KNOW YOUR SKILL LEVEL
Although it's tempting to attempt to canoe fast moving waters beyond your ability, it's also dangerous. Never test your limits in unfamiliar waters.

FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE AREA
Before beginning to canoe in an unfamiliar area, it's important to familiarize yourself with your surroundings and the area you'll be covering. Maps are often available at county and state parks.

CHECK YOUR EQUIPMENT
Make a checklist and go over it mentally before pushing off each time you canoe. Some links to "checklists" are listed below.

1. Canoes should be equipped with at least two paddles. 2. Every canoe should have two lines, a bow line and stern line.
3. An extra throw rope (for emergencies) should be stored safely in each craft.
4. Store any loose ropes safely. Loose ropes are deadly. Lines should be tied and wrapped before departing.
5. Attach a whistle (or other attention getting device) to your life vest to signal for help.
6. Carry a First Aid Kit inside the canoe. Store kits inside waterproof coverings.
7. Take a repair kit with you. Include quick repair items like duct tape, sealant, waterproof tape and other materials.

ONCE YOU'RE IN THE WATER KNOW WHERE TO SIT
When canoeing, it's important to always remain in your seat or on the floor of the canoe. Never sit on the sides of a canoe or stand. Canoes easily tip over with only the slightest movement of weight.

NEVER TIE PADDLES
Some canoeists tie paddles to the boat to avoid losing them during a spill. Do not do this. Tied paddles become extremely dangerous if the canoe does tip.

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
Even the most seasoned veterans never travel alone. Water safety specialists recommend traveling with at least three people in your party or two separate crafts. Also, be certain to let others staying behind know where you're going and when you're expected to return.


Canoe/Kayak/Camping Checklist:

http://www.canoeoutfitters.com/checklist.html


Additional Canoeing/Kayaking Safety Links:

Canoe/Kayak Scale of Difficulty: http://adk.com/recreation/canoe-scale.cfm

Safety information from the US Canoe Association: http://www.boatwashington.org/canoe_kayak_safety.htm






New York State owns and operates over 350 boating access sites. These sites enable the public to reach and use the state's tremendous water resources. (D) designates a site operated by DEC; (P) indicates a site operated by the Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation; (M) indicates a site operated by a city, town, village or other municipality; and (C) indicates a site operated by the Canal Corporation.

The following definitions will assist you in determining if a particular site will accommodate your boat:

  • Hard surface or concrete ramp--site affords float-off and float-on launching for most trailered boats.
  • Beach launch--no float-off or float-on trailered boat capability. Sites will accommodate the approach to the water's edge of small and light trailered boats. Boat may then be pushed on or off trailer. Usually shallow areas.
  • Hand launch--no trailer capacity. Boats must be hand carried to the water.
  • Car top launch--For canoe/kayak launching. Limited parking available.

    Cascade Lakes (D) (upper and lower) - Essex County. On Route 73, six miles northwest of the Hamlet of Keene. Hand launching. Parking for 15 cars. No motors.

    Franklin Falls Flow (D) - Essex County. Off Route 3 on County Route 18, 5 miles east of the Hamlet of Bloomingdale. Hand launch. Parking for 5 cars.

    Lake Flower (D) - Franklin County. On Route 86 in the Village of Saranac Lake. Hard surface ramp. Parking for 20 cars and trailers.

    Lake Placid (D) - Essex County. Off Route 86 in the Village of Lake Placid on Mirror Lake Drive. Hard surface launching ramp. Parking for 25 cars and trailers.

    Mirror Lake (D) - Essex County. Off Route 86 in the Village of Lake Placid, on Mirror Lake Drive. Hand launching. Parking for 25 cars, 50 yard carry required. Electric motors only.

    Moose Pond (D) - Essex County. Off Route 3 at the Village of Bloomingdale on the Bloomingdale-Franklin Falls Road to the dead end on Moose Pond Road. Hand launching. Parking for 28 cars.

    Saranac Lake (Middle) (D) - Franklin County, South Creek. On Route 3, 10 miles west of the Village of Saranac Lake. Hand launching. Parking for 20 cars.

    Saranac Lake (Lower) (D) - Franklin County, Second Pond, On Route 3, 3 ½ miles SW of the Village of Saranac Lake. Hard Surface Ramp. Parking for 75 cars and trailers.

    Saranac Lake (Upper)
  • (D) - Franklin County, Saranac Inn. At Saranac Inn 1/2 mile from Route 30. Parking for 50 cars and trailers. Hard ramp.
  • (D) - Franklin County, Indian Carry. On Route 3, 8 miles east of the Village of Tupper Lake. Beach launching. Parking for 18 cars.