‘Round the Mountain Canoe and Kayak Race | Saranac Lake | May 9, 2026

Saturday, May 9, 2026
11:00 AM 3:00 PM

Ampersand Bay Resort 31 Bayside Drive Saranac Lake, NY, 12983 United States (map)

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‘Round the Mountain Canoe and Kayak Race Returns to Saranac Lake

‘Round the Mountain Race on Saranac Lake. Photo courtesy Northern Forest Canoe Trail.

The ‘Round the Mountain Canoe and Kayak Race returns to the Adirondacks on Saturday, May 9, 2026, launching from Ampersand Bay Resort in Saranac Lake and finishing on Lake Flower. Hosted by the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, this 10.5-mile paddling race marks the official kickoff to the Adirondack paddling season—and one of the region’s most beloved spring traditions.

A signature Adirondack paddling event.

There’s something about early May in the Adirondacks—the lakes just shedding their last chill, the shoreline greening up, and paddlers eager to get back on the water. The ‘Round the Mountain race captures that moment perfectly.

Open to all skill levels, the event welcomes everyone from first-time recreational paddlers to seasoned racers. The atmosphere is equal parts competition and camaraderie, with a shared appreciation for the wild beauty of the Adirondack waterways.

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The race course through classic Adirondack waters.

The race begins at Ampersand Bay on Lower Saranac Lake and winds through a scenic chain of waterways that define the Adirondack paddling experience.

From the starting line, paddlers head west across Lower Saranac Lake before entering the Saranac River near Bluff Island. The course continues downstream, requiring a short carry around the lower locks—a quintessential Adirondack feature that blends endurance with technique.

After the carry (a designated walk zone monitored by race officials), racers push on through Oseetah Lake before finishing on Lake Flower in the heart of Saranac Lake.

At approximately 10.5 miles, the course offers just enough challenge to test stamina while remaining accessible to a wide range of participants.

What to expect on race day.

Race day runs from 11 am – 3 pm, with a steady stream of boats launching into the crisp spring air. Spectators line portions of the route and gather near the finish line, creating a lively yet distinctly Adirondack atmosphere—more flannel than fanfare, more cowbells than crowds.

Participants can compete in a variety of boat classes, with flexibility built in to combine smaller categories. Teams can include up to eight paddlers, though many racers opt for solo or tandem entries.

Safety is taken seriously. All participants must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) at all times—no exceptions. It’s a small requirement that ensures a safe and enjoyable day on the water.

kayakers and canoers competing in the 'round the mountain race on Saranac Lake. — Kick-off the 2026 paddling season on Saranac Lake. Photo courtesy Northern Forest Canoe Trail.

Why this race defines spring in the Adirondacks.

Unlike larger, more commercial races, the ‘Round the Mountain Canoe and Kayak Race feels rooted in place. It highlights the interconnected waterways that have shaped Adirondack travel for centuries—from Indigenous routes to logging drives to today’s recreational paddlers.

It’s also a rare opportunity to experience multiple iconic Adirondack waterways in a single, continuous journey. Few events offer that kind of immersive connection to the landscape.

For travelers, it’s a compelling reason to plan a spring visit. For locals, it’s a rite of passage—the moment when paddles dip back into Adirondack waters for the season.

Who should attend.

This event is ideal for:

Paddling enthusiasts looking to start the season strong
Outdoor adventurers visiting the Adirondacks in spring
Spectators seeking a unique, community-driven event
Anyone curious about Adirondack water routes and culture

Whether racing or watching from the shoreline, the experience delivers a memorable slice of Adirondack life.

Sunrising over Saranac Lake in the Adirondacks. — Sunrise over Saranac Lake. SaranacLake.com (ROOST)

Plan your race day.

Event: ‘Round the Mountain Canoe and Kayak Race
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
Time: 11 am – 3 pm
Location: Start at Ampersand Bay Resort, finish at Lake Flower, Saranac Lake
Registration: Online only; closes Friday, May 8, at midnight

Participants are encouraged to register early, as this popular Adirondack race often draws a strong turnout. For full details, boat classes, and updates, visit the Northern Forest Canoe Trail website or social channels.

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FAQ: ‘Round the Mountain Canoe and Kayak Race

What is the ‘Round the Mountain Canoe and Kayak Race?
It’s a 10.5-mile Adirondack paddling race in Saranac Lake that kicks off the region’s spring paddling season.

When is the race happening?
Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11 am – 3 pm.

Where does the race take place?
The course runs from Ampersand Bay on Lower Saranac Lake through the Saranac River to Lake Flower in Saranac Lake, NY.

Can spectators attend?
Yes. Spectators can watch along parts of the route and at the Lake Flower finish area.

How do you register?
Registration is online only and closes at midnight on Friday, May 8.

Do participants need special equipment?
All racers must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD at all times.