Paddling the Black River Watershed
Monday, August 26, 2024
An engineering marvel for its time, the Black River Canal connected the western Adirondack region to the world renowned Erie Canal, further linking Northern New York to the rest of the nation and the world. Completed in 1855, the canal featured 109 locks along its 35-mile traverse, which remains a world record. Reservoirs that helped carry water to Upstate New York’s canal network still lie in the Black River Wild Forest in the southeastern Adirondacks. On this exciting new outing, start the day by learning about the experiences of engineers, lock tenders, and other residents along the route at the Black River Canal Museum in Boonville. Then, caravan east to paddle on Herkimer County’s North and South Lakes. Dammed in 1857 and strengthened in 1870 following a devastating dam rupture, North Lake Reservoir served as a water supply for both the Erie and Black River Canals. This paddling tour will explore the infrastructure of both North Lake and neighboring South Lake, including the 1892 North Lake State House, built as a residence for the reservoir tender, and other unique structures that support these two reservoirs.
This outing is led by President of the Canal Society of New York State, Craig Williams. The tour begins at 10 AM and ends around 3 PM.
The fee is $50 for AARCH members and $65 for non-members.
Please note that this tour includes walking on uneven ground. The paddling route consists of a 6 mile flat water paddle and you must BRING YOUR OWN KAYAK or CANOE. Some canoeing experience is required.