On our trip of May 2002 we investigated the possibility of launching the canoe at a hamlet known as Inlet on the Oswegatchie River upstream from Cranberry Lake. The 12 mile paddle upstream to High Falls is a well known tourist destination. The falls can also be reach by a 15 mile trail from Wanekena. People who undertake either trip are usually quite serious about viewing nature the way it is.The launch site is owned by New York State and is maintained for recreational purposes. Originally the site of a hotel for hunters and fishermen, it is reached by a 3.5 mile narrow dirt road from State Route 3. At that time the water was quite high.
When we returned in August the area was experiencing a record dry spell. There were several very shallow spots where we had to use our paddles to push the canoe over gravel and there are a few river rocks with turquoise paint on them now. Guide books recommend using a pole in some places. Next time we will pack one, too. |
