Tramp & Trail

Write-up: Mary Pat Connors
Leader: Mary Pat Connors
Co-Leader: Roger Felske

Nine Tramps set out on a beautiful crisp September morning from Axton Landing (off Coreys Rd. between Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake), traveling upstream toward the Raquette River Falls. There was a chill in the air when we began but soon the sun in the cloudless sky warmed us.

We passed Stony Creek, paddled under the cable enabling a small tram to cross the river and negotiated the twists and turns of this sinuous river. The most noticeable characteristic of the river was the water level. It was the lowest I had ever seen it, and this sentiment was echoed by a local fisherman. Muddy flats and rocks were exposed like never before. The low level made paddling a challenge in certain areas, where we just barely skimmed the bottom.

We paddled leisurely, soaking up the sun and the beauty of the river and the forest of silver maples and white pines. We stopped several times to get out and stretch, and to have a meal, a snack or some homemade cookies. One stop was at a popular campsite, site of a lean-to and a newly installed timber retaining wall.

Upon arrival at the falls, we took the hike to Lower Falls, took many photographs, and inspected the Ranger’s cabin. We were pleased that there was still a mighty flow from the upper river.

Since we had taken our time paddling to the falls, time was of the essence on the return. We traveled rapidly with the current, without stopping, back to our cars at the Landing.

That night, a few tramps camped at Fish Creek campground, and the others stayed at the Adirondack Motel in Saranac Lake.