30 May Schroon Paddle Challenge Hosts Inaugural Paddling Event on June 10
The Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce, Town of Schroon, Schroon Lake Association, and Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) have joined forces to create a new event for paddling enthusiasts and nature lovers alike: the Schroon Paddle Challenge. The challenge will officially launch on June 10, with an inaugural paddle along the Schroon River to the beach at Schroon Lake.
Beginning at 10 a.m. on June 10, those taking part in the paddle will be able to drop off their boats at the Schroon River launch on Route 74, just off Exit 28 on the Northway, east of Route 9. There is a sign indicating “Town of Schroon Canoe / Kayak Launch,” located on the north side of an unpaved road, not to be confused with the DEC Fishing Access lot.
Event participants will transport their cars back to town, where a shuttle bus will be on hand to transport paddlers back to their boats. Participants will paddle along the Schroon River and across a narrow section of Schroon Lake to the town beach – a distance of approximately 6.7 miles; showcasing one leg of the three paddle challenge. Immediately after the event, there will be a reception in the Schroon Boathouse Theater, with a live band, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks. The Schroon Lake Association will also be in attendance with merchandise for sale and membership information.
The Schroon Paddle Challenge comprises three paddles within the Schroon Lake Watershed: the Schroon River Paddle, the Schroon River to Schroon Lake Paddle, and the Paradox Lake Paddle. Each paddle is approximately 4.5 miles (one-way), allowing participants to either arrange a shuttle for a one-way trip or paddle back to their starting point. Finishers will earn the Schroon Paddle Challenge patch upon completing the three paddles. Those who are able to complete all three paddles over a single weekend (Friday-Sunday) will earn an “Ultra” patch, signifying their accomplishment. Challenge participants must register to receive their patches. Additional information can be found on the paddle challenge webpage.
The Schroon Paddle Challenge aims to celebrate the joy of paddling and introduce more local residents and visitors to the stunning waters within the Schroon Lake Watershed. By creating an involved community working together to preserve the watershed for present and future generations, the partners hope to promote a sustainable approach to enjoying this unique natural resource.
According to Sydney Aveson, communications coordinator at the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST), one of the most crucial things people should know before tackling the paddling challenges is the importance of ensuring that their boats are clean and dry between paddles or before moving to a different waterway. “‘Clean. Drain. Dry.’ is a simple three-step process that all boaters can follow to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species, which can threaten a healthy ecosystem,” she said. Boaters can do their part by finding a decontamination station to wash their boats before entering another body of water. To find a decontamination station, visit the Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute website.
Visit the Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce website or call (518) 532-7675 for more information about the Schroon Paddle Challenge and to register for the inaugural paddle event.
The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism is the destination marketing and management organization for Hamilton and Essex counties, along with the communities of Lake Placid, Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake, all located within the Adirondacks in New York state.
Contact:
Sydney Aveson, communications coordinator
Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism
518.523.2445
sydney@roostadk.com
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