Highlight • Lake
Lake Colby
Cycling
5.0
(2)
Road cycling
5.0
(2)
Lake Colby is a picturesque 272-acre lake located in Franklin County, New York, nestled within the scenic Adirondacks. Situated just outside the village of Saranac Lake on NY-86, this tranquil body of water sits at an elevation of approximately 475 meters. Its outlet flows into Lower Saranac Lake, connecting it to the wider Saranac Chain of Lakes.
Visitors are particularly drawn to Lake Colby's peaceful atmosphere, largely due to its 10-horsepower motor limit, which makes it ideal for quiet paddling and enjoying nature. The lake's public beach, managed by the Village of Saranac Lake, is a favorite for families, offering warm, shallow waters for swimming and recent accessibility upgrades. Many also appreciate the opportunities for wildlife spotting, with common loons and bald eagles frequently sighted around its shores.
Before heading out, it's good to know that the terrain around Lake Colby is generally accessible, making it suitable for various activities. For those planning to explore the Adirondack Rail Trail, which crosses the southern part of the lake, be prepared for a fairly rough gravel surface if you're on a gravel or touring bike. Parking is available at the New York State boat launch and Latour Park, which also offers picnicking spots.
Lake Colby offers year-round appeal, with summer being popular for swimming, paddling, and fishing. Anglers can find diverse species including rainbow trout, brown trout, and largemouth bass. The causeway, soon to be part of the Adirondack Rail Trail, provides excellent opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching, especially for wetland birds and migrating ducks. Winter activities on Lake Colby also draw visitors for ice fishing and cross-country skiing.
Many cyclists enjoy incorporating Lake Colby into their routes, noting it as one of the many beautiful bodies of water visible while cycling the roads in this part of the Adirondacks. The Adirondack Rail Trail, accessible from the southern end of the lake, offers a unique path for those looking to extend their cycling or walking adventures.
The serene environment, coupled with the chance to observe wildlife like loons and bald eagles, creates memorable moments for visitors. Whether you're enjoying a quiet paddle, casting a line, or simply relaxing on the accessible beach, Lake Colby provides a refreshing escape. The beautiful sunsets over its "clover-shaped" waters are also a highlight for many.
With numerous options for outdoor recreation, Lake Colby is a fantastic destination for hikers, cyclists, and families alike. You can discover a variety of Lake Colby Lake trails and routes, from easy walks to longer cycling excursions. To plan your visit and explore the best viewpoints, check out the diverse routes available on komoot, ensuring you make the most of this tranquil Adirondack gem.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Adirondack Park
Tips
February 12, 2024
Cycling
February 19, 2024
Road cycling
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Lake Colby
17
riders
88.2km
05:39
1,060m
1,060m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
21
riders
74.9km
04:43
390m
390m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
94.8km
05:52
880m
880m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 470 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Monday 11 May
9°C
-2°C
36 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there specific hiking trails directly around Lake Colby, and how long do they take?
While there isn't a single designated loop trail directly encircling Lake Colby, the Adirondack Rail Trail crosses its southern part. This trail, which is a former railroad bed, offers opportunities for walking and cycling. It's described as a 'fairly rough gravel trail' in some sections. For a full loop around the lake, you would need to combine sections of the Rail Trail with local roads, which might not be ideal for a continuous hiking experience. The causeway, soon to be part of the Adirondack Rail Trail, provides excellent opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching.
What are the best viewpoints or natural features to look out for at Lake Colby?
Lake Colby is known for its picturesque 'clover-shaped' form and beautiful sunsets, particularly over its waters. The lake is home to diverse plant life, including water lilies and grasses, which are visible while paddling. For wildlife enthusiasts, common loons and bald eagles are frequently sighted, and both species are known to nest here. The Lake Colby Railroad Tracks area is also a popular spot for birdwatching, attracting various wetland birds and migrating ducks.
Where can I find parking when visiting Lake Colby?
Public parking is available at the New York State boat launch and at Latour Park. Latour Park also offers picnicking spots. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, as parking can fill up quickly.
Is Lake Colby suitable for family-friendly walks or activities?
Absolutely! Lake Colby is very family-friendly. The public beach, managed by the Village of Saranac Lake, offers warm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and has recent accessibility upgrades, including a wheelchair-friendly path. Latour Park provides picnicking areas and shore fishing. The causeway, soon to be part of the Adirondack Rail Trail, also offers easy nature walks suitable for families. Additionally, the Lake Colby Environmental Education Camp on the western shore caters to 10-13 year olds, highlighting the area's focus on youth and nature.
Are dogs allowed on trails or in public areas around Lake Colby?
While specific regulations for dogs on all trails directly around Lake Colby are not explicitly detailed, generally, dogs are welcome on leash on public trails in the Adirondacks. It's always best to check local signage at specific access points like the public beach or Latour Park for any restrictions. When using the Adirondack Rail Trail, ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them.
What are the best activities to enjoy at Lake Colby during the winter months?
Lake Colby offers several appealing activities in winter. It's a popular spot for ice fishing, with a diverse fishery including rainbow trout and brown trout. Cross-country skiing is another favored activity, especially on the frozen lake surface or along accessible sections of the Adirondack Rail Trail. Always exercise caution and check ice conditions before venturing onto the lake.
Are there any cafes, restaurants, or accommodation options near Lake Colby?
Yes, Lake Colby is conveniently located just outside the village of Saranac Lake on NY-86. Saranac Lake offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options, from hotels to guesthouses, all within a short drive or even walking distance from the lake. For those looking for a more immersive experience, there are also two approved campsites on the western shore of Lake Colby itself.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Lake Colby?
Lake Colby is a haven for wildlife observers. You can frequently spot common loons and bald eagles, both of which are known to nest in the area. The lake's diverse plant life also supports various wetland birds and migrating ducks, especially around the Lake Colby Railroad Tracks area. Anglers will find a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, landlocked Atlantic salmon, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and brown bullhead.
What is the history behind Lake Colby and its surrounding area?
Lake Colby has a rich history. The Colby causeway, now part of the Adirondack Rail Trail, was built in 1892 as part of the Mohawk and Malone railway. On its western shore, 'Camp Intermission' was established in 1928 by theatrical agent William Morris, later becoming Camp Colby, a conservation education camp. The Adirondack Medical Center now stands on the site of the former Lake Colby Dairy and Produce Farm. The village beach was dedicated as the William J. Wallace Memorial Municipal Beach in 1983, honoring a former police chief.
What makes Lake Colby unique compared to other lakes in the Adirondacks?
Lake Colby stands out due to its 10-horsepower motor limit, which ensures a peaceful environment free from large wakes, making it ideal for quiet paddling and wildlife observation. Its 'clover-shaped' form and beautiful sunsets are also distinctive. The lake's public beach offers warm, shallow waters and accessibility upgrades, making it particularly welcoming for families. Its convenient location right outside Saranac Lake village, combined with its rich history and diverse recreational opportunities, makes it a unique Adirondack gem.