Summer On The Saranac River

This summer, put all those bad memories of winter behind you and head to the Saranac River.

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Why not spend those hot summer days on a hiking trail in northern New York, taking pictures of scenery that brings silence among people, and at the same time, discover camouflage frogs and lizards along paths you would normally never think existed.

When it comes to outdoor activities in the summer, the Saranac River is perhaps one of the most highly regarded places. The river offers a number of popular activities, such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking and hiking.

Fishing is one of the most popular things to do. David Brookman of Brookies Guide Service said, "There is lots of fish in the Saranac; every area of the river has a different type of fish."

"Fly-fishing is one of the biggest things to do in the North Country."

Brookies Guide Service shows people the art of fishing as you travel up and down the river. "Fly-fishing is one of the biggest things to do in the North Country," Brookman said.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation places thousands of trout in the river every season. This spring, the DEC has already started dumping rainbow, brown and brook trout in the river. The DEC will come close to placing 22,000 trout in the Saranac this spring.

The ESPN Great Outdoor Games are based in Lake Placid; however, the fishing community heads to the Saranac River where the bass-fishing competition is held. Cal Schmeichel, owner of Branch Bed and Breakfast in Saranac Lake, said, "The river is our front yard, so we can see just about everything. During the tournament, we see some of the best bass fisherman in the world fish here."

The Outdoor Games have been held at the Saranac River for the past two years and will be held this summer in July.

Peter Barton, owner of Blue Mountain Outfitters in Lake Placid, has canoeing and kayaking equipment available for rent. People who are interested in canoeing or kayaking can spend a day paddling along the river.

However, canoeing down an unfamiliar river may not be the best idea. "If anyone would like a guide to show them around the river, they can be accommodated, but I've found that most people just use the map. It's not hard to figure out; plus they can take their time out on the river," Barton said.

Besides fishing, canoeing or kayaking, hiking is another large attraction to the Adirondacks. The Adirondacks have more than 2,000 miles of marked hiking trails.

Whether planning for casual family hikes or steep climbs, the ability to experience the natural wildlife encompasses every direction. But don't take to many pictures of the animals—save some for the dramatic scenery the North Country has to offer.

The Saranac River has a place for everyone. Now it's time for you to check it out and experience one of the North Country's most proud possessions.

Share your Saranac experience with your friends at All Points North: Editor@apnmag.co