A serene, forest-lined shore with little to no motorized boat traffic in the Finger Lakes Region? Yes, please!
Hemlock Lake is the perfect lake for canoeing, kayaking, or using a stand up paddle board (SUP). Really, canoes and kayaks rule Hemlock Lake instead of large motor craft due to rules and regulations in place by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC).
Since Hemlock Lake is a state forest that was established to protect the drinking water supply for the city of Rochester, motorized boats must be 17-feet or less in length and have a 10-horse power or less engine. This means no large or fast boats speeding by and disturbing you as you paddle.
This makes Hemlock Lake an essential lake for all paddlers to visit in upstate New York.
I know you'll want to make sure to spend some time paddling on the water while you visit Hemlock Lake.
Read on to find out about:
Chances are really rather excellent you'll find one or more adventures to add to your itinerary!
Actually, there are.
First and foremost, the NYS DEC has set a limit on size of motorized craft on Hemlock Lake. Likewise, non-motorized craft can't exceed 24-feet in length.
To be honest, I really had to give some thought as to why there is the non-motorized craft restriction. I believe it's to limit multi-person rowboats and sailboats - and rowing and sailing competitions. So, if you're a rower or sailor, to get on the waters of Hemlock Lake, you might have to try something new.
Additionally, you can't swim, bathe, or wade in Hemlock Lake. Therefore, if you want to use a stand up paddle board but don't know if you can stay on without falling in the water, I suggest you choose a different lake to try on.
There are 2 boat launches on the eastern shore of Hemlock Lake, one at the northeast tip on East Lake Road and another at the southeastern tip. Both motorized boats and non-motorized boats can put into the lake at these sites.
Please check rules and regulations before your visit to make sure you're prepared before you go.
This boat launch is located off East Lake Road, along the eastern shore of Hemlock Lake. It has an unimproved surface boat launch surface, great for launching kayaks and canoes, but also sufficient for launching a small motor boat.
This launch site is located on the southeastern shore of Hemlock Lake. There's an unimproved surface launch area that can get muddy, but works well when the water is higher.
The GPS may try to send you past the road if you are coming from the south, so turn onto the dirt road with the boating sign.
Bringing all your luggage PLUS kayaks, a canoe, or SUPs can be a lot! Never fear, Hemlock Lake will hook you up!
This business, based on the next lake over, will trailer canoes and kayaks to Hemlock Lake for you. They also rent bikes, so if you want to include multiple outdoor activities in your stay, reach out to Canadice Lake Outfitters.
Hemlock 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?