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Paddling Canandaigua Lake
Canandaigua Lake is a gorgeous lake to paddle. Photo credit: mattbuck (category), CC BY-SA 2.0Canandaigua Lake: The chosen spot
Canandaigua Lake was named "the chosen spot" by the Seneca Indians prior to European colonization. The beauty of this lake gives testament to such a name - and you won't want to miss getting out to paddle these chosen waters.
Aside from paddling directly on Canandaigua Lake - which is amazing in and of itself - you can also choose between paddling the outlet at the northern end of the lake, or the marsh at the southern tip of the lake.
If you’re looking for a bit of New York history, paddling the outlet connects you to the past if you go far enough. A tract that’s 38-miles-long, you’ll meet the historic Erie Canal at the outlets’ northern-most point.
What you'll find on this page:
I know you'll want to make sure to spend some time paddling on the water while you visit Canandaigua Lake.
Read on to find out about:
- The best places to paddle on and around Canandaigua Lake
- Where you can launch a kayak or canoe on Canandaigua Lake
- Where you can rent a kayak, canoe, or stand up paddle board (SUP) on Canandaigua Lake
Chances are really rather excellent you'll find one or more adventures to add to your itinerary!
Paddling the Canandaigua Outlet
Of this almost 40-mile-long stream, you’ll want to stick to the upper tract, between Manchester and Lyons, or the short 1.5-mile, out-and-back route that the mouth of the lake if you are paddling.
The section between Manchester and Lyons is a challenging route where you’ll be able to see wildlife and upstate New York forests. Part of the route generally follows the New York State Thru-way, but since streams meander and highways don’t there’s plenty of opportunity to feel like you're getting away from it all.
You can put in at Manchester and head northeast towards Lyons, where the outlet meets the Erie Canal. The canal is also paddle-able, so if you’re still raring to go, keep going into this little piece of NY and US history.
You can access the Canandaigua Outlet from multiple locations.You can also paddle the Outlet from the northern tip of Canandaigua Lake. This is an out-and-back route that is usually calm and pleasant amongst the trees that overhang the water. SAFETY NOTE: Stay at least 300 feet away from the outlet gates because there is a STRONG CURRENT when they are open which can be unsafe for paddlers.
Additionally, there is a section between Canandaigua and Manchester. This portion is not for the faint of heart, containing rapids and obstructions. If you’re an experienced paddler and wish to attempt this trip, I highly recommend you scope it out first. The difficulty here is there’s no path for scoping it out - the outlet butts against private lands with little to no shoreline, and even less emergency access sites for entering or exiting the stream. If you do decide to go, make sure you’re not on a solo run.
For more information about paddling any portion of the Canandaigua Outlet, I recommend checking out the Canandaigua Lake Water Trail's website, or Rich and Sue Freeman's book, Take a Paddle: Finger Lakes.
Highlights
- Paddling
- Viewing wildlife
Features
- Various branches to paddle
- 40-mile stretch, or 1.5 miles
- Varying paddling difficulty
- Dogs allowed
- Free entry
Paddling the West River Marsh of Canandaigua Lake
The West River Marsh of Canandaigua Lake is the stream that leaves the lake at its southern end. Unlike the outlet, this is an easy paddle where you can bird watch and fish, or just take in the scenery.
While you're paddling, keep your eyes peeled for river otter, beaver, and other wildlife. During the off-season, West River Marsh is a major over-wintering site for waterfowl, so visit from September through April with your binoculars.
The West River Marsh enters both High Tor Wildlife Management Area and the Finger Lakes Land Trust West River Preserve. The launch site off Route 245 is located at the DEC sign labeled: “High Tor Wildlife Management Area - West River Unit.” You can also launch from the West River Fishing Access Site on Sunnyside Rd. Alternatively, you can launch at the DEC site off Route 21.
Highlights
- Paddling
- Fishing
- Viewing wildlife
Getting there
West River Fishing Access Site:
- 📍4898-4800 Sunnyside Rd, Naples, NY 14512
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
Features
- Multiple launch areas
- Part of High Tor Wildlife Management Area
- Part of Finger Lakes Land Trust's West River Preserve
- Dogs allowed on leash
- Free entry
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, such as beaver, in the West River Marsh. Photo credit: Tjustorparn, CC BY-SA 4.0Can I paddle on Canandaigua Lake?
Can you paddle on Canandaigua Lake?
Why yes, yes, you can.
Named “the chosen spot” by the Seneca Indians, Canandaigua Lake is a gorgeous spot to kayak, canoe, or SUP. There’s something about the way the light hits the lake - or the moon - that makes this one picturesque and absolutely beautiful.
There’s no limit to how far you can paddle, but Canandaigua Lake is a busy boaters’ lake from May-September, so use your judgment when on the water. Most folks will stay nearish to the shore, where you can get views of the cottages and trees, and avoid too many waves caused by the motor boats.
You can also join a SUP yoga class with Finger Lakes Yogascapes. Prepare to feel limber and relaxed after yoga on the lake. You'll also have fun!
Paddle and do yoga on a SUP, Canandaigua Lake. Photo credit:Elenajoy, CC BY-SA 3.0Where can I launch my kayak, canoe, or SUP on Canandaigua Lake?
There are many launch sites on Canandaigua Lake. I’m going to highlight a few. And then, instead of being redundant, I’ll direct you towards some excellent resources in the event that they're helpful for you too.
Canandaigua Lake State Marine Park
Located at the north end of the lake in Canandaigua, you’re offered ample parking and easy access to the water with your canoe, kayak, or SUP at Canandaigua Lake State Marine Park.
Highlights
- Paddling
- Boating
- Fishing
Getting there
- 📍610 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
- 📞 (585) 394-6838
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
Features
- Hard-surface launch ramp
- Max 2 leashed dogs allowed
- Entry fee
Deep Run Park
On the eastern side of the lake, near the town of Gorham, Deep Run Park offers you a small beach area with easy access for launching kayaks and canoes.
Highlights
- Paddling
- Swimming
Getting there
- 📍4300 East Lake Road
Canandaigua, NY 14424 - 📞 (585) 396-4000
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
Features
- Beach area
- Swimming area with lifeguard
- Facilities
- Picnic Areas
- Free entry
Kershaw Park
Located at the north end of the lake, you can launch at Kershaw Park, which also conveniently has nearby amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas.
Please note: The city of Canandaigua has a restriction on paddling within 500 feet of the Kershaw Swim Beach, as marked by buoys.
Highlights
- Paddling
- Fishing
- Swimming
Getting there
- 📍155 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424
- 📞 (585) 396-5060
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
Features
- Shoreline for launching
- Amenities
- Swimming area with lifeguard
- Free entry
Onanda Park
Situated on the west side of the lake, about seven miles south of Canandaigua, there’s a designated launch area for non-motorized boats at Onanda Park.
You'll also find plenty of space to park your car while you’re on the lake, which is nice.
Highlights
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Hiking
Getting there
- 📍4965 County Rd 16, Canandaigua, NY 14424
- 📞 (585) 394-1120
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
Features
- Municipal park
- Designated kayak and canoe launch
- Picnic areas
- Swimming area with lifeguard
- Dogs allowed in some areas of the park
- Entry fee
There are plenty of locations to launch your kayak on Canandaigua Lake. Photo credit: Virginia State Parks, CC BY 2.0West River Fishing Access Site
On the western side of the lake, off West River Rd, this is a more secluded spot with a small launch area - perfect if you want a quiet paddle. You can paddle down and around into the West River Marsh from this launch site.
Highlights
- Paddling
- Fishing
- Viewing wildlife
- Hiking
Getting there
- 📍West River Road, Canandaigua, NY 14424
- 📞 (585) 226-2466
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
Features
- Cartop vessel launch site
- Dogs allowed on leash
- Free entry
AND MORE...
There's even more than these. A most excellent resource you might want to consult if none of these choices whets your whistle is Canandaigua Lake Water Trail. I personally find these ones very helpful:
Where can I rent a kayak, canoe, or SUP on Canandaigua Lake?
You've got a couple of choices. Read on to find your best fit.
Canandaigua Sailboard
Canandaigua Sailboard has two locations you can choose from - and two names! Also known as CNGA Sailboard, you can rent a kayak, canoe, or SUP, take lessons, enjoy a surf demo, or enroll your kids in camp.
Canandaigua Sailboard also partners with Finger Lakes Yogascapes to bring you SUP yoga - which I tell ya, has been on my bucket list for a number of years now!
Getting there
- 📍Location 1: 11 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424
- 📞 (585) 394-8150
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
- 📍Location 2: 5113 Parkside Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424
- 📞 (585) 259-2314
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
Shoreside
You’ll find Shoreside located within Seager Marina, as well as Pro Shop & Marina. Offering kayak and SUP rentals, as well as wakeboarding, and skiing rentals and lessons, Shoreside offers the best and delivers on their promises.
Getting there
21 Parrish Street, Canandaigua NY 14424
- 📍21 Parrish Street, Canandaigua NY 14424
- 📞 (585) 337-9218
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
Pro Shop & Marina
- 📍811 South Main Street, Canandaigua NY 14424
- 📞 (585) 337-9218
- 🗺 Find on Google Maps
Create your own Finger Lakes adventure
Canandaigua Lake Lake is simply too breathtaking to experience without paddling out on the water!
Which paddling option will you add to your next Finger Lakes adventure itinerary?
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