Blue Mountain Lake

A first person view of paddling a pack raft during sunset.
A first person view of paddling a pack raft during sunset.
An aerial photo of a pack rafter in a lake during sunset.
An aerial photo of a pack rafter in a lake during sunset.
An aerial photo of a pack rafter in a lake next to an island during sunset.
An aerial photo of a pack rafter in a lake next to an island during sunset.
A kayaker fishing underneath a wooden bridge.
A kayaker fishing underneath a wooden bridge.
A map of Blue Mountain Lake.
A map of Blue Mountain Lake.

Info

Blue Mountain Lake, NY 12812

Blue Mountain Lake is a very large lake, with some outstanding features, many dotted islands, and an abundant loon population. You can take a short hike up Castle Rock along the way, which is a rock outcropping that gives outstanding views of the lake. An inlet to the southeast corner of the lake will bring you to Eagle Lake and further on to Utowana Lake, which is another outstanding paddle destination with greater wildlife potential.

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 28 and Route 30 in the small hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake, follow Route 28 toward Raquette Lake. Continue for about 0.25 mile to the town beach and only public boat launch for the lake. Shoreline launch with shallow water and easy access. The carry is about 100 feet over grass and sand. The distance depends on available parking.

By the numbers

  • 12.6 miles of shoreline
  • 1,220 acres
  • Mean depth: 25 feet

Paddling

This is a large lake shared with motor boats and can get rough in windy conditions. Much of the shoreline and islands are private, so observe posted signs if going ashore.