Lake Tahoe sits at 6,225 feet. Its water is clear. You can see 70 feet down. But the lake is huge. It covers 191 square miles. Depth hits 1,645 feet. That cold water stays in the 50s even in August. Kayakers and canoeists need to be ready for afternoon winds. They can kick up 2-foot waves fast. A spray skirt helps. So does a life jacket. You’ll want to start early, before the wind picks up around 11 a.m.
Key Takeaways
- Pick lakes with calm conditions and moderate distances for your skill level
- Best seasons are late spring through early fall for most US lakes
- Always wear a life jacket and check wind forecasts before paddling
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe straddles California and Nevada. The north and west shores get less wind. Emerald Bay is a popular launch spot. It’s sheltered and scenic. You’ll paddle past Fannette Island. The bay is about 2 miles long. Allow 2 to 3 hours to explore it.
Difficulty is moderate. The open lake can get choppy. Best months are June through September. Air temps are 70 to 80 degrees. Water temps are 50 to 60. No permit is needed for day use. But you need a California or Nevada boating registration if you bring your own canoe or kayak. Rentals are available at several marinas.
Gear that matters: a life jacket, spray skirt, sun protection, and plenty of water. The sun at altitude is strong. Winds pick up in the afternoon. Start paddling by 8 a.m. to avoid the worst of it. Access points include the boat ramp at Emerald Bay State Park and Kiva Beach.
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park. It sits at 9,550 feet. The lake is small, only 1.3 miles around. But it’s deep, 154 feet. The water is very cold. It’s glacier-fed. Summer temps hover in the 40s. Paddling here is for experienced folks who can handle altitude.
Difficulty is strenuous. The thin air makes every stroke harder. Best months are July through September. Ice clears by late June. The road to the lake opens in late May but may close for snow. No permits are needed for day use. But you need a park entrance pass. Rentals are not available. You must bring your own boat. Carry it about 100 yards from the parking lot to the shore.
Gear: a dry suit or wetsuit is a smart move. The water is deadly cold. A life jacket is required. Bring snacks and extra layers. Altitude sickness is a real risk. Drink more water than usual. Access is via the Moraine Lake Trailhead. Parking fills early, by 7 a.m.
Lake George
Lake George is in New York’s Adirondack Mountains. It’s 32 miles long and 3.5 miles wide. The lake has over 200 islands. Paddlers can camp on some of them. The water warms to 70 degrees in summer. That’s comfortable for swimming.
Difficulty is easy to moderate. The lake is protected from big winds by the surrounding hills. Best months are May through October. July and August have the warmest water. No permit is needed for day use. But you need a permit to camp on the islands. They are first come, first served. You can get one at the Lake George Beach Office.
Gear: a life jacket, waterproof bag for gear, and a map of the islands. The lake has boat traffic, especially in summer. Stay close to shore. Watch for motorboats. Access points include the boat launch at Lake George Beach State Park and the docks at the village of Lake George.
Comparison Table
| Lake | Difficulty | Best Months | Water Temp (F) | Permits Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Tahoe | Moderate | June-September | 50-60 | Boating registration if own boat |
| Moraine Lake | Strenuous | July-September | 40-45 | Park entrance pass |
| Lake George | Easy-Moderate | May-October | 60-70 | Camping permit for islands |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a life jacket to kayak on these lakes?
Yes. US Coast Guard regulations require a life jacket for each person on board. Many states also require children under 13 to wear it at all times. Always wear yours. It can save your life in cold water or a capsize.
Can I rent kayaks or canoes at these lakes?
Lake Tahoe has many rental shops. Lake George also has rentals at marinas and campgrounds. Moraine Lake does not have rentals. You must bring your own boat there.
What is the best time of day to paddle?
Early morning is best. Winds are calm, and the water is smooth. On Lake Tahoe and Lake George, afternoon winds can make paddling hard. On Moraine Lake, afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Paddle from sunrise to 11 a.m. for safety and comfort.
Are there any dangerous animals I should worry about?
In general, no aggressive animals threaten paddlers. But at Lake George, bears are active around campsites. Store food in bear canisters. At Lake Tahoe, you might see coyotes or deer. They usually avoid people. Just keep your distance and don’t feed wildlife.
What should I do if my kayak capsizes?
Stay calm and stay with your boat. The boat provides flotation. If wearing a life jacket, you’ll float. Try to swim to shore if it’s close. In cold water, conserve energy. Get out as quickly as possible and warm up. Practice self-rescue techniques before your trip.
Check the wind forecast before you go. On all of these lakes, conditions can change fast. If the forecast calls for winds over 10 miles per hour, postpone your trip. Paddling in high wind is dangerous, especially on big lakes like Tahoe. Stay safe and enjoy the water.