Best Places for Kayaking near Syracuse
Bring your adventurous spirit to Syracuse, NY. Centrally located in upstate New York, it’s the gateway to the Finger Lakes region and a kayaker’s paradise. Enjoy exploring the scenic parks, lakes, rivers and streams surrounding Syracuse.
Kayaking Destinations Near Syracuse
Whether you are looking for a thrilling adventure or a calm paddle through nature, you’ll find it in upstate New York. Check out these top kayaking destinations near Syracuse.
Onondaga Creek
Syracuse, NY
Onondaga Creek is the main the main tributary to Onondaga Lake in Syracuse, New York. The creek begins 26 miles south in Tully, NY and offers a fascinating paddle for kayakers and canoers. Your journey will take you through the Syracuse neighborhoods, past nature filled natural landscapes and under historic tunnels and bridges. A popular trip, with a put-in at Kelley Brother’s Park and take out at Ollie’s Point in Franklin Squair, will pass under 33 different bridges. The city also has a new kayak launch in the Inner Harbor.
Seneca River
Syracuse, NY
The Seneca River flows for over 60 miles through the Finger Lakes region near Syracuse, NY. It is the main tributary of the Oswego River and part of the New York State Canal System. It is considered by many to be one of the best places for leisurely kayaking. A day-long paddle around Howland Island Wildlife Management Area is a popular choice and often allows for excellent birdwatching. It is about 10 miles and has beautiful marshlands and tree lined shores. The lower portion of the Seneca River leads into Onondaga Lake and can be a great place to practice your sea kayaking skills.
Beaver Lake Nature Center
Baldwinsville, NY
It is best known for its trail system, but Beaver Lake Nature Center is also an excellent location for kayaking. It is part of the Onondaga County Parks System. Beaver Lake’s still waters are great for beginner kayakers and those who just want to explore nature. A leisurely paddle along the edge offers prime beaver, turtle, heron and osprey spotting.
Lower Gorge of the Genesee River
Rochester, NY
The Genesse River flows north from Pennsylvania to Lake Ontario. The Lower Gorge is a wonder of natural and human history that’s not to be missed by kayaking enthusiasts. Downriver from the better-known High Falls area in downtown Rochester, the Lower Gorge boasts stunning cascades, sheer cliffs, marshes, wetlands, grand bridges and towering trees. The river is deep and wide, and remarkably quiet in contrast to the bustling city above the gorge’s high banks.
Letchworth State Park
Tyrone, NY
Letchworth State Park has been called the “Grand Canyon of the East.” It is one of the most scenically magnificent areas in the eastern U.S. and offers whitewater kayaking for those seeking the thrill. Here, about 30 miles southwest of Rochester, the Genesee River rages through the gorge, toppling over three major waterfalls between cliffs as high as 600 feet. Kayakers and rafters can enjoy Class I and II rapids.
Syracuse Kayak Storage Racks
Syracuse offers the perfect kayaking destination for every kind of kayaker, and we offer the perfect storage for every kind of kayak. Log Kayak Rack’s hand-crafted kayak and canoe racks are made from norther cedar logs. As beautiful as they are practical, they will keep your shoreline neat and orderly and your kayaks at the ready. The durable frames are naturally weather-resistant and can store up to eight kayaks, canoes and standup paddleboards each. Shop our kayak racks online now or contact us for a custom kayak storage solution that will meet your Syracuse kayak storage needs.