The St. Regis Canoe Area is the largest wilderness canoe area in the northeast United States. These 18,000 acres of 58 ponds are closed to motor vehicles, motorboats, and aircraft. You'll find it 15 miles northwest of Saranac Lake in the Paul Smiths/Lake Clear area of the Adirondacks. The area is noted for its pristine spring-fed ponds, short canoe carries, and exhilarating wild spaces. It all adds up to serenity.

There are two main routes. The historic Seven Carries Route connects two historic resorts: the renowned Paul Smith's Hotel and the Saranac Inn. Several "great camps"—elaborate backcountry compounds built by turn-of-the-century robber baron elite—can be seen on the Upper St. Regis Lake including Camp Topridge, built by the Post family. The Seven Carries route is a mellow overnighter. For a longer excursion, the Nine Carries Loop takes you deeper into the backcountry, including the transcendant area around Fish Pond.

Just the Facts

Suitable craft: Open canoes

More New York/New England paddling: Hudson Valley, Delaware Water Gap

More GORP: Adirondacks State Park