At Moreno’s Cottages, we’re big fans of the Adirondack Canoe Classic. This annual paddling race known as the “90-Miler” is a three-day Adirondack canoe race that’s held on the “Highway of the Adirondacks” on the weekend after Labor Day.
Paddle and Carry on the Race Route
The race, which was first run in 1983, starts in Old Forge, via the Moose River through the Fulton Chain Lakes, to Raquette Lake, then via the Raquette River to Forked Lake, Long Lake, and finally via the Stony Creek Ponds, and the Indian Carry to Upper Saranac Lake. Racers then use Bartletts Carry to reach Middle Saranac Lake, and Lower Saranac Lake, and finally, Lake Flower in Saranac Lake. Phew! Even though the route looks tough, it’s only the initial leg of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail which winds all the way into Maine.
Who can Enter the 90-Miler?
The 90-Miler is open to all age groups and classes and has welcomed as many as 500 competitors from all over the world. Because it’s limited to 275 boats, registration fills quickly after applications are opened each year. While it attracts plenty of professional racers, most entrants are recreational paddlers with many senior adventurers taking on the challenge.
Many college teams have also competed in the race. Hamilton College has a canoe racing team that takes part in the 90-miler each year. In 2018 Hamilton sent 20 paddlers who all completed the course.
Finish the 90 Miler Canoe Race in Saranac Lake, Get Some R&R
Adirondack Canoe Classic racers follow the same chain of lakes, rivers, and carries used by early settlers and mountain guides. The race route was set up so participants would have accommodations at the end of each day. The finish line at Riverside Park in Saranac Lake is in Moreno’s Cottage’s backyard at Riverside Park in Saranac Lake. So, after paddling, carrying, and camping along the mountain waterways, we invite racers and their teams to come and stay with us to enjoy some Adirondack beauty on dry land.
At Moreno’s Cottages, we welcome all kinds of Adirondack adventurers throughout the year. We’re located at the trailhead of Scarface Mountain between the towns of Saranac Lake and Lake Placid giving guests easy access to outdoor activities in every season. Contact us today at (518) 265-5370 to learn more about our accommodations and book your stay.