The Adirondacks are one of the best places to spend the summer in Upstate New York. As an avid hiker and paddler, I venture up to Adirondack State Park as often as possible to enjoy the abundance of outdoor activities. My favorite part of a long day outside? Stopping at one of the many Adirondack breweries for a cold one. Take a trip with me as we go through some of the best paddling spots and breweries in Warren County. From lakes, ponds and rivers to several craft breweries, you’re never too far away from a paddle or a pub.
Moreau Lake State Park & Common Roots Brewing
Technically Moreau Lake State Park is in Saratoga County, but it’s so close to Warren that I’m including it here. This paddler’s paradise is located between Saratoga Springs and Glens Falls, in the foothills of the Adirondacks. The easily accessible boat launch allows you to be out of your car and in the waters in no time! I love paddling on Moreau Lake for many reasons, but most of all, I love that there are no motorized boats allowed. This makes for calm waters suitable for any paddling skill level. Explore the small ponds off of the lake and you’ll be sure to spot ducks, turtles and a wide variety of fish. Keep an eye out for the loon that lives on Moreau Lake, too!
When you finish paddling, head on over to the newly reopened Common Roots Brewing Company in South Glens Falls. They have a huge selection of beer, and if you’re an IPA lover, Common Roots is definitely the place for you!
Glen Lake & Northway Brewing Company
Head north of Moreau Lake State Park to Glen Lake in Queensbury for another top notch paddling destination in Warren County. A non-motorized boat launch for the lake is located at 290 Glen Lake Road. The boat launch also features picnic tables, a restroom and a fishing dock. The two mile long lake is a perfect size for a relaxing day of paddling in a canoe or kayak. If you’re an angler (a method of fishing), Glen Lake is known to have brown bullhead, chain pickerel, largemouth bass, pumpkin seed, smallmouth bass, walleye and yellow perch.
Located just minutes from the boat launch is one of my personal favorite breweries, Northway Brewing Company! A warm atmosphere paired with some delicious beer makes for a perfect post-paddle destination. My personal favorites are the Perfect Day Pilsner and Sunrise Session IPA. Their colorful cans make for a lovely lakeside photoshoot too!
Lake George’s Northwest Bay & Bolton Landing Brewing Company
Paddling Lake George can be intimidating due to the lakes massive size and heavy traffic. However, if you stay in a more secluded area like the lake’s Northwest Bay, you’re more likely to have a calmer paddling trip while still taking in the sheer beauty of the lake. There’s a reason it’s nicknamed the Queen of American Lakes! A Department of Enivronmental Conservation public boat launch for the Northwest Bay is located off of route 9N in Bolton Landing. Enjoy stellar views of the Tongue Mountain Range as you paddle around Northwest Bay.
If you’re going back into the town of Bolton Landing after paddling, be sure to stop by Bolton Landing Brewery Company, a family-owned microbrewery located on the shores of Lake George. Their spacious outdoor patio is a great spot to socially distance while enjoying a brew. Check out their website to see what’s currently on draft!
More Paddling!
- Thirteenth Lake in the Siamese Ponds Wilderness: A true backwoods paddling experience minus a long hike to the boat launch. Bonus! The lake also has a network of hiking trails and 13 lakeside campsites.
- Garnet Lake: Another calm paddling destination that is ideal for all skill levels. With over six miles of shoreline to explore, this hidden gem will keep you paddling all day long.
- There are several boat launches on the Hudson River in Warren County. While paddling the Southern Hudson can be challenging, the calm waters of the Northern Hudson are a paddling dream.
Maria Gigliello is an avid hiker, paddler and writer who enjoys spending as much time as possible doing all three things in the Adirondack State Park. She is just as passionate about beer as she is about responsible outdoor recreation and is always in search of a good view and a brew. You can follow her adventures on her blog, The Dirt.
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