Saranac Lake Wild Forest 📍

The Saranac Lakes Wild Forest (SLWF) is 79,000 acres of state land in Franklin and Essex Counties. It is situated near the communities of Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake, and Lake Placid.

The unit offers many recreational opportunities, including but not limited to hiking, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, mountain biking, canoeing, hunting, and fishing. Popular hiking attractions include Scarface and Panther Mountains, Fernow Nature Trail, and the Lake Placid Peninsula Nature Trails.

Many people enjoy boating and camping on Upper, Middle and Lower Saranac Lakes.

🗺️ Maps 🖼️ Photos

Small Island

Andy | June 27, 2026

Saturday July 2, 2011 — Floodwood Pond Loop — Floodwood Pond 🗺

Narrow Passage Between Rollins Pond and Poliwog Pond

Andy | June 27, 2026

According to books I've read, this section can require a portage in low water, and indeed I scrapped bottom a few places here.

Saturday July 2, 2011 — Floodwood Pond Loop — Floodwood Pond 🗺

Passing Rollins Pond Campground

Andy | June 26, 2026

It looked insane there. I am not sure why on would want to camp there.

Saturday July 2, 2011 — Floodwood Pond Loop — Floodwood Pond 🗺

Thematic Map: Buildings Heated with Geothermal in the Capital Region

Heading Towards Rollins Pond

Andy | October 18, 2025

Unfortunately it was too shallow without portaging to that pond, but it was okay as the hour was late. When the water levels are higher, you can usually paddle between both lakes.

Saturday October 18, 2025 — Floodwood Pond Loop — Floodwood Pond 🗺

Map: Doodletown Wildlife Management Area

Evening on Floodwood Pond

Andy | October 18, 2025

Just a nice quiet paddle after some really cool weather, and a nice day hiking.

Saturday October 18, 2025 — Floodwood Pond Loop — Floodwood Pond 🗺

Thematic Map: Log Homes of Albany County