Greeted by a light morning thunderstorm the skies soon cleared meaning our one way paddle from South Creek to the Second Pond was a go. Today we would be spotting a car at the take out on Second Pond which is a popular access point. We arrive at the South Creek put in which offers access to Middle Saranac Lake, after paddling though the narrow swamp like channel Middle Saranac Lake appears before your eyes. Enjoying the pristine scenery we begin paddling towards the Saranac River channel which can be difficult to find for those not familiar with the area. Getting further out into the lake a strong wind from the west pushes us towards where I believe we have to go according to the GPS. Scanning the horizon I cannot find the outlet leading to the Saranac River. Zooming in with GPS I discover we are about 100 yards off from our mark and now in a difficult position of getting pounded by waves from the beam while be pushed into the thick reed like vegetation. Quickly I pull up the rudder and paddle hard till I spot the channel markers. Just after entering the channel we find a nice place to pull out for lunch prior to beginning our journey towards Lower Saranac Lake. The river section offers a pleasant experience as it meanders it way though forest and swamp occasionally passing a motorized vessel but no other paddlers. About midway through the river section we enter the upper locks which lowers our kayaks 2.5 feet as revealed by the gate keeper .Eventually the river put you on Lower Saranac Lake and the strong wind blowing from the west once again allows us to ride the waves. Lower Saranac Lake is dotted with many islands that allow camping so is very popular with mostly canoers. This time we locate the outflow of the Saranac River with ease encountering numerous fully stocked canoes heading towards the lake. Shortly we arrive at journey’s end the Second Pond take out paddling eight miles total distance.
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