Lake George

Lake George stands as one of the Adirondacks' premier paddling destinations, stretching 32 miles through some of New York's most pristine mountain scenery. This glacially-carved lake offers crystal-clear waters that regularly achieve near-drinking quality, surrounded by the High Peaks to the west and rolling foothills to the east. What sets Lake George apart from other Adirondack waters is its unique combination of accessibility and wilderness character. You'll find everything from quiet coves perfect for beginners to expansive open water that can challenge more experienced paddlers when conditions turn rough. The southern basin near Ticonderoga provides some of the most protected waters on the entire lake, making it an ideal starting point for new paddlers.

Paddling conditions on Lake George vary dramatically depending on your location and the weather. The southern end where most people launch tends to stay calmer due to the surrounding hills that break up wind patterns. However, don't let the beginner rating fool you completely. This lake can generate significant waves when winds pick up, particularly from the north. Early morning and evening typically offer the calmest conditions, with afternoon thermals creating chop that builds as you head toward the wider northern sections. The water stays remarkably clear year-round, often allowing you to see bottom in 15-20 feet of water. Current is essentially non-existent except near the outlet at Ticonderoga, where you might notice a gentle southward drift.

Kayakers will find Lake George incredibly rewarding, with countless islands and bays to explore along the shoreline. The narrow profile of most kayaks handles the occasional chop well, and you can easily duck into protected areas when conditions deteriorate. Canoeists should stick closer to shore, especially on windy days, as the open water can become challenging quickly. SUP enthusiasts have discovered some fantastic paddling here, particularly in the early morning hours when the water often turns glassy. For fishing, the lake holds excellent populations of lake trout, landlocked salmon, and bass. The deep, cold water means fish can be found at various depths depending on season. Try trolling along the drop-offs or working the weed beds in the shallower southern areas.

Spring paddling starts as early as March once ice-out occurs, though water temperatures remain brutally cold and wetsuits are essential. April and May offer some of the most peaceful paddling of the year with fewer boats and comfortable air temperatures. Summer brings warm water perfect for swimming breaks, but also means sharing the lake with heavy motorboat traffic, especially on weekends. The boat wakes can actually provide some fun surfing opportunities if you time it right. Fall paddling ranks among the best in the Northeast, with spectacular foliage reflecting off the calm water and significantly reduced boat traffic after Labor Day. October can be particularly magical, though you'll want to dress warmly as temperatures drop quickly.

The primary public launch area sits right in the village of Lake George at Million Dollar Beach, but for a less crowded experience, head to the Ticonderoga end where you'll find the launch referenced here. The Ticonderoga area launch provides easy access via a concrete ramp with adjacent parking that accommodates both cars and trailers. Parking fills up on busy summer weekends, so arrive early or consider weekday trips. From the launch, you can head north into the main lake or explore the quieter waters near the outlet. The nearby town of Ticonderoga offers basic services including a decent paddle shop and several restaurants for post-paddle meals. Route 9N provides straightforward access from both directions, and the launch area is well-marked and easy to find even for first-time visitors.