Is paddling required for this tour?

Paddling is optional; guests can relax and let the guide do the work if preferred.

What should I wear for the Stargazer Paddle?

Wear layered clothing suitable for cool night temperatures, and bring a waterproof outer layer in case of rain.

Are children allowed on this trip?

Yes, but there is a maximum group size of 12 to maintain an intimate experience and safety.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours may be rescheduled or canceled in case of severe weather to ensure guest safety.

Is prior canoeing experience necessary?

No experience is required since paddling is optional and the guide provides instruction if needed.

Where does the trip meet?

The group meets at the Second Pond Boat Launch located at 4468 State Route 3, Saranac Lake, NY.

Stargazer Paddle: Nighttime Canoe Adventure in Saranac Lake’s Pristine Waters | Guided Tour | Canoe

Discover the magic of the Adirondacks after dark with the Stargazer Paddle, a night canoe trip that brings the stars closer than ever before. Launching from the scenic Second Pond Boat Launch in Saranac Lake, New York, this 2 to 2.5-hour guided voyage takes you gently across calm waters toward the Lower Locks, where the sky unfolds in an expansive dome of sparkling constellations. The voyageur canoe, a traditional canoe style characterized by its wide, stable build, makes paddling optional—allowing guests to relax and focus fully on the celestial performance overhead.

Saranac Lake, situated within the Adirondack Park, offers an exceptional setting for stargazing. The region’s low light pollution and high elevation create ideal conditions to observe not just common constellations, but also faint stars and planets that often disappear in more populated areas. Your experienced guide will narrate the stories behind the patterns, pointing out local constellations such as the Big Dipper and Cassiopeia, while sharing folklore and answering curious questions. This fusion of astronomy and Adirondack wilderness creates a unique sensory experience—gliding silently across dark water with only the night sky’s glow reflecting beneath you.

What sets the Stargazer Paddle apart is its intimate connection to the natural and cultural history of the Adirondacks. Voyageur canoes echo the legacy of the French-Canadian fur traders who once used these waterways, while the celestial interpretations pay homage to Native American star lore treasured in the region. The peaceful nighttime environment fosters a sense of peaceful solitude rarely found in daytime adventures.

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, amateur astronomers, and anyone seeking a calm yet captivating outdoor experience. The relatively easy paddle allows beginners to feel comfortable, especially with paddling optional. Beginners and families alike can enjoy the tranquil rhythm of the water while soaking in the grandeur of the cosmos.

Prepare for the trip with essentials like a headlamp or flashlight, snacks, and water. Dress warmly—the night air on the water can be cool—even in summer months. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to disconnect, the Stargazer Paddle offers a memorable night under the stars that only Saranac Lake’s pristine environment can deliver.

About St. Regis Canoe Outfitters

St. Regis Canoe Outfitters is a Saranac Lake, New York outfitter specializing in canoe and kayak rentals, guided paddles, and multi-day outfitting packages. The company provides a full range of rentals from one-day trips to eight-day adventures across the Adirondacks, plus guided specialty paddles such as Sunset Tour, Full Moon Paddle, and Stargazer Paddle. Outfitting options include Standard, Complete Lightweight, Complete Ultralight, and Deluxe packages that bundle high-quality canoes (Kevlar, Nova Craft, Wenonah), life jackets, cooking gear, camping essentials, and custom food packs. Many packages include itinerary planning and a transportation allowance to simplify logistics for paddlers. Guided experiences emphasize safety and local knowledge: guides deliver safety talks, route recommendations, and wildlife awareness to protect guests and natural areas. The Sunset Tour offers a 2.5-hour voyageur canoe experience on Lower Saranac Lake with a sunset view from Bluff Island and accessible boarding suitable for guests with limited mobility. The Full Moon Paddle explores Stony Creek Ponds at night for a guided, star-lit paddle. For longer trips, renters can choose lightweight Kevlar for portaging, durable T-Formex for moving water, or pack boats for solo paddlers. St. Regis Canoe Outfitters partners with experienced paddlers and maintains equipment to industry standards, focusing on clean, serviced boats and safe outfitting. Located in the heart of the Adirondacks, the outfitter serves Saranac Lake visitors seeking dependable rentals, guided tours, and comprehensive trip planning support.

Current availability, reservation details, and seasonal updates are published by the outfitter and accessible through official booking channels, email, and phone.