When most people think about paddle boarding in New York, their minds go straight to Manhattan and the skyline of New York City. While NYC does offer incredible urban SUP experiences, paddle boarding in New York extends far beyond the city limits.

From quiet Adirondack lakes and historic river routes to scenic upstate floats and iconic waterways, the Empire State is packed with diverse SUP opportunities for every skill level.

New York’s geography makes it uniquely suited for paddle boarding.

What makes it special:

• Mountain lakes, slow rivers, and urban waterways

• Long paddling seasons in many regions

• A mix of remote wilderness and city paddling

• Well-established outfitters and access points

The Black River flows from the northwestern Adirondacks through the Tug Hill Plateau before reaching Lake Ontario. It’s one of New York’s most historically rich and varied paddle boarding rivers.

What to expect:

• Sections ranging from gentle flatwater to whitewater

• Multiple dams and waterfalls requiring portages

• Launch sites at Lyons Falls, Glenfield, Castorland, and Carthage

• Camping opportunities for multi-day trips

Depending on water levels and season, paddlers can experience everything from quiet scenic floats to technical whitewater SUP sections.

The Fulton Chain of Lakes is a classic Adirondack paddle route made up of eight interconnected lakes stretching roughly 16 miles.

Why paddlers love it:

• Continuous paddling from First Lake through Fifth Lake

• Classic Adirondack scenery and historic summer camps

• Easy portages connecting additional lakes

• Access to the Northern Forest Canoe Trail

From Old Forge to Eighth Lake, this area is ideal for touring SUPs and multi-day exploration.

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  Photo Credit: Rivertown SUP & Yoga

New York City offers one of the most iconic urban paddle boarding experiences in the world. Hudson River Park alone spans over 500 acres of waterfront access.

Highlights include:

• Skyline views from the water

• Guided SUP and kayak tours for beginners

• Launches near Pier 84 and downtown Manhattan

• Views of the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building

Guided tours are highly recommended for first-time NYC paddlers due to boat traffic and tidal currents.

The Niagara region offers a surprising range of paddle boarding options, from calm canals to large open-water paddling near Lake Erie.

Why it stands out:

• Flatwater paddling in recreational canals

• Access to Lake Erie conditions for experienced paddlers

• Day-trip friendly routes

• Easy rentals available locally

While overnight river trips are limited here, the variety of short paddles makes it a strong regional destination.

The Delaware River offers some of the most scenic paddle boarding in the Catskills region.

Popular sections include:

• Calm paddling above Pepacton Reservoir

• Cold, steady flow below the reservoir due to controlled releases

• Classic 5-mile SUP route from Downsville to Shinhopple

• Eye-popping mountain and forest scenery

Water temperatures can be very cold, even in summer, so proper gear is essential.

Seasonality matters across the state:

• Late spring brings higher water levels and fewer crowds

• Summer offers warm air and long paddling days

• Fall delivers incredible foliage and cooler temperatures

• Winter paddling is limited to experienced cold-water paddlers

Before heading out, keep these essentials in mind:

• Check dam releases and river flow levels

• Be aware of tides and boat traffic in NYC

• Wear a leash and personal flotation device

• Start early for calmer water and better conditions

  
  

   

New York is far more than an urban paddle boarding destination. From remote Adirondack lake chains to iconic rivers and world-class city paddling, the state offers SUP experiences that rival anywhere in the country.