The Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT) has recently completed significant upgrades to popular paddling routes and campsites in the Saranac Lake area.
These improvements, funded by proceeds from various canoe and kayak races and a grant from the Lake Champlain Basin Program, aim to enhance safety, accessibility, and environmental sustainability for outdoor enthusiasts.
A major focus of the project was the restoration of the Lower Locks portage trail connecting Lower Saranac Lake to Oseetah Pond. This heavily trafficked route had suffered from years of erosion, creating hazardous conditions for users.
The NFCT partnered with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and local trail stewards to address these issues. The rehabilitation involved leveling and rebuilding both the takeout and the trail itself. Sustainable design practices were implemented, such as using gravel paths to channel water away from footpaths.
NFCT Trustee Brandon Devito explained to Adirondack Daily Enterprise, “This is a short but heavily used portage trail. The NFCT felt a responsibility to prioritize this work because two of our signature events — the 90-Miler and the ‘Round the Mountain — generate a tremendous amount of traffic on their own, not even accounting for regular use by local paddlers.”
In addition to the portage trail improvements, the project included enhancements to nearby campsites. Upstream from the Lower Locks, crews constructed three new tent pads and relocated an old privy at a popular campsite. They also added new wayfinding signage to both the campsite and the portage trail, improving navigation for visitors.
Further downstream on the Saranac River, the NFCT installed a new floating dock and replaced 34 feet of wooden walkways at the Five Fauls lean-to site. This popular destination for paddlers previously suffered from a muddy takeout, exacerbated by fluctuating water levels. The new infrastructure addresses these issues, making the site more accessible and reducing environmental impact.
Alex Delhagen, the NFCT’s assistant trail director and leader of the roving stewardship crew, stated, “Just as with the Lower Locks project, this work aimed to protect this section of the river from further erosion caused by users and water conditions, while also making it easier and safer to access this gem of a campsite.”
These stewardship efforts not only enhance the paddling experience but also contribute to the local economy and environmental conservation. The success of these projects underscores the importance of volunteer stewardship in maintaining recreational waterways.
Karrie Thomas, the NFCT’s executive director, commented on the reinvestment of race proceeds: “When we took over the Adirondack canoe race series from Brian and Grace McDonnell, our intention was always to reinvest those proceeds into paddling infrastructure in the Adirondacks. The paddling community here can take a great deal of pride in knowing that by simply participating in our events, they’re improving safe and environmentally responsible access to our waterways.”
The NFCT’s stewardship crew specializes in projects at the interface of land and water, including campsites, portage trails, and access points. Their work exemplifies a commitment to sustainable outdoor recreation and environmental preservation. These recent improvements to the Saranac Lake area’s paddling infrastructure represent a significant step forward in balancing outdoor recreation with environmental stewardship.