on our Lakes, Ponds, Rivers!
Some of Tupper Lake’s finest
Tupper Lake is home of some outstanding outdoor activities that include hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and of course paddling. When it comes to water - Tupper Lake is one of the largest lakes in the region. Within a stone's throw of the Village of Tupper Lake also lies numerous flatwater paddling opportunities to explore and enjoy. Don’t forget to bring your rod and reel and try to catch that next big story. Be sure to check out these three outstanding paddling destinations located right near the Town of Tupper Lake.
Little Wolf Pond
Bring your canoe or kayak, spread on the suntan lotion and paddle Little Wolf Pond.
Getting there:
From the intersection of Route 30 and Route 3 in Tupper Lake follow Route 3 west toward Piercefield. Continue for 1.75 miles to Washington Street on the right - which is the first right after the railroad tracks. Follow Washington Street for 0.6 miles to 4th Avenue on the left. Follow 4th Avenue to its end at Wolf Pond Road and take a right. The public beach will be on the left, park and launch here.
Little Wolf Pond is a popular destination due to having a large public beach located on its shore. Parking is located here or a bit further up the road along the grassy area. It is best to launch away from the busy beach. Little Wolf Pond is round in shape with limited protection from the wind and the elements. The pond itself does tend to kick up some serious waves at times and there is the use of motor boats on the water. There is an outlet at the northwest side of the pond, which can be paddled in parts for an interesting change of scenery.
The Crusher on the Raquette River
This popular launch on the Raquette River will give you great opportunities to explore up and down stream.
Getting there:
From the intersection of Route 30 and Route 3 in Tupper Lake follow Route 3 toward Saranac Lake. Continue for around 4-miles to the state launch area on the right.
The Crusher is an interesting name for a boat launch site on the Raquette River. Smaller motor boats will use this launch, but most traffic is by the way of canoe or kayak. The river in this area is quite flat and mellow with slow current, upstream paddling is not an issue. You have the option to paddle upstream toward Stony Creek or downstream into the Village of Tupper Lake at Raquette Pond. If you head upstream, the likelihood of seeing a motorboat is very limited. The closer you get to Simon Pond and Raquette Pond the chances increase. Be sure to play around in some of the small bays and off shoots of the river, there is plenty to see and explore.
Panther Pond
Never paddled before, or want to introduce a young child to paddling with a great backdrop? Try Panther Pond.
Getting there:
From the intersection of Route 30 and Route 3 in Tupper Lake follow Route 3 toward Saranac Lake. Continue for around 7.25 miles to the trailhead for Panther Mountain on the right, park here.
The trail to Panther Mountain is located across the road, but Panther Pond is located right below the parking area. A well-defined, unmarked trail is located at the west side of the parking area, the pond is easily seen. Follow this path as it proceeds downhill to a shallow launch area. Motor boats are not on this small body of water and it’s very well-sheltered to give everyone a calm water experience.
Dig in!
If you have interest in paddling but need a boat to rent, check out a local outfitter for details. Need to grab lunch before you head out? Tupper Lake has numerous shops to fill that craving.